Golden State Warriors are determined to regain the NBA trophy, but title holders Cleveland Cavaliers should not be written off just yet (despite Cavs poor form since the Allstar).
San Antonio Spurs have been producing scintillating performances in the NBA play-offs, whilst Houston Rockets are regarded as dark horse, speaking of the title race.
Golden State
Golden State Warriors suffered no less than 15 defeats in the regular season, but it is well known that the last season’s runners up were hit by Kevin Durant’s serious injury. KD, though, has recovered in time to face Portland Trail Blazers in the play-offs and he led Warriors to a 109-94 victory over Terry Stotts’ team with 29 points. The former Oklahoma City Thunder ace impressed in Game 2 as well and it is more than obvious that Steve Kerr’s men have more attacking options with him in the starting line-up. Golden State have been in a splendid form of late and it is no surprise they are -160 at Paddy Power to regain the trophy.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland Cavaliers do not seem to be on top of their game at the moment, but they somehow recorded back-to-back wins over Indiana Pacers at the start of their 2017 NBA play-offs campaign. Cavs need to find their best form as soon as possible if they are to defend their NBA title, but given the individual quality of Tyronn Lue’s key players LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love, it is no surprise the reigning champions are No. 2 favourites to win the silverware. Over the years Cleveland have turned their Quicken Loans Arena into a real fortress, but it is well known that Golden State Warriors secured home-court advantage for potential NBA final against Cavs. Anyhow, you should bear in mind that Tyronn Lue’s team are +333 at bet365 to defend their title.
San Antonio Spurs
San Antonio Spurs have been in Cleveland’s and Golden State’s shadow in recent years, but the 2017 NBA season could be the turning point for Gregg Popovich’s charges. Tim Duncan is no longer part of the team and Kawhi Leonard is considered the team’s key player nowadays. Spurs rolled over Memphis Grizzlies in first two games in the play-offs and they are with one foot in the next round. There is a mixture of youth and experience in Gregg Popovich’s team and that could prove to be their main quality in upcoming challenges. San Antonio won their last NBA trophy in 2014 and they get between +600 to +750 at all online betting sites.
Houston Rockets
Houston Rockets are enjoying a very successful season. Mike D’Antoni’s team were producing splendid displays in the regular season and they continue to impress in the NBA play-offs. James Harden led Rockets to a thrilling 118-87 victory over Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1, but “The Beard” will certainly face an uphill task in matches against title contenders. Anyhow, Houston should not be underestimated as they recorded no less 55 wins in the regular part of the season. Mike D’Antoni’s charges are +1600 at Ladbrokes to go all the way in the NBA play-offs.