NBA Summer League Odds, Picks & Predictions: Friday (7/11)
The Vegas Summer League is underway, giving fans a chance to see the stars of tomorrow, today. It also gives bettors a chance to build up their bankroll for next season by laying down a few bets right now. But only the best NBA Summer League bets, of course. Sportsbooks have betting lines for these games, and we've identified several of the best NBA Summer League picks and bets for the day.
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Friday’s Best NBA Summer League Picks
(Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook)
Atlanta Hawks (+5) vs. Miami Heat (+176) | O/U 175.5 (-112/-112)
The Hawks have some talented players that fans will be eager to see, like Kobe Bufkin (third-year player; former 15th overall draft pick) and this year's first-round selection, Asa Newell. Miami will, of course, have some talent on the roster like Kasparas Jakucionis, Kel’el Ware, Keshad Johnson and Pelle Larsson. Since they've already played three Summer League games (California Classic, they went 2-1).
That time together gives the Heat an edge. But since they've already seen playing time, the team could opt to give other players more time to develop. Until we know they are not going to play, we have to assume they will. That experience makes the Heat -5 a good bet.
Pick: Heat -5 (-110)
Utah Jazz (-6.5) vs. Charlotte Hornets (+225) | O/U 180.5 (-112/-112)
Utah is certainly at an advantage rolling into this game, having played and gone undefeated in three games already. The rookies have already begun to integrate the sophomore and junior players, and some chemistry has developed. Charlotte will have some talent taking the court, but one of the drawbacks of Summer League play is that the rosters haven't played together much (if at all).
While the Hornets may make it interesting, Utah's summer league experience will win the day.
Pick: Jazz -6.5 (-110)
Portland Trail Blazers (+140) vs. Golden State Warriors (-3.5) | O/U 173.5 (-112/-112)
Golden State isn't bringing many household names to Vegas for Summer League play, but they are bringing a group with some game-time experience under its belt, as the team went 1-2 in the California Classic, losing close games to the Spurs and Heat (beating the Lakers in the opener).
As for the Trail Blazers, the most intriguing names have to be Rayan Rupert and Yang Hansen. Rupert has played for the Trail Blazers before, and Hansen is a highly regarded international player. Portland has some solid athletes on the roster, but the talent level does not compare to Golden State, especially since the Warriors have actual game experience together.
There is talent on both sides, but Golden State's experience, via the California Classic, will win the day.
Pick: Golden State -3.5 (-110)