The NBA Futures Market: Betting on the LA Clippers and Selling the LA Lakers
If you’re someone who views the NBA futures market as potential financial investments, then you’ll want to keep a close eye on the two professional basketball teams in Los Angeles. When it comes to the 2023 NBA championship futures, our advice is to “buy” the LA Clippers with the return of Kawhi Leonard, but to “sell” the LA Lakers if Russell Westbrook remains on the team for the upcoming season.
The Clippers: Overcoming Adversity and Building for the Future
Last season, despite missing significant time from Kawhi Leonard and Paul George due to an elbow injury, the Clippers managed to finish in ninth place in the Western Conference with a 42-40 record. They even qualified for the Western Conference Play-In Tournament, although they were ultimately eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
One cannot overlook the commendable job done by head coach Ty Lue in pushing the team to overachieve without their two star players. Despite facing challenges such as COVID-19 disruptions and other injuries, the Clippers showcased resilience. They displayed an ability to come back from substantial deficits, including a 35-point comeback victory against the Washington Wizards. This impressive performance demonstrated that with a roster filled with talented three-point shooters like Luke Kennard, the Clippers were always a threat.
In terms of player personnel, the Clippers could consider upgrading their point guard position or stick with their platoon of Reggie Jackson and Terence Mann. Mann, who had an excellent season, played in 81 games and provided valuable contributions off the bench. Additionally, the return of Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, and Norman Powell, who signed with the team in a trade, will bolster the Clippers’ depth. Powell, who previously played alongside Kawhi Leonard with the Toronto Raptors, brings a scoring prowess that solidifies the team’s offensive options.
With a healthy roster and Kawhi back in action, we believe the Clippers have a real chance at winning the championship in 2023. At +600 odds, they are considered one of the four co-favorites alongside the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, and Brooklyn Nets.
The Lakers: Struggles and Obstacles in Their Path
The Lakers had a disappointing season, finishing in 11th place in the Western Conference with a lackluster 33-49 record. Fans and critics alike dubbed them the “Losing Time” Lakers due to their underwhelming performance. As we assess their chances for the upcoming season, we have identified three major obstacles they must overcome: health concerns, Russell Westbrook’s fit, and lack of depth.
Injuries plagued the Lakers last season, with Anthony Davis appearing in just 40 games and LeBron James missing 26 games due to various ailments. The team heavily relies on their star duo, and their absence significantly impacted the Lakers’ performance. Without enough support from the bench and role players, the team struggled to maintain a winning record.
Furthermore, the acquisition of Russell Westbrook did not pan out as expected. The Lakers traded away multiple assets, which depleted their bench strength and left them heavily reliant on their star trio of LeBron, Davis, and Westbrook. Westbrook’s unwillingness to adapt to the Lakers’ offensive scheme even led to head coach Frank Vogel being fired. With Westbrook’s hefty contract and limited trade value, the Lakers have found it challenging to offload him.
In a highly competitive Western Conference, the Lakers now face even tougher competition with the return of Kawhi Leonard to the Clippers and Jamal Murray to the Denver Nuggets. Emerging teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New Orleans Pelicans, led by the talented Zion Williamson, also pose threats. It remains to be seen whether the Lakers can rise to the challenge and reclaim their position as one of the top contenders.
While the Lakers still possess star power with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, their odds of winning the championship are currently set at +2000. Considering their struggles and uncertainties surrounding Westbrook’s fit, we advise taking a cautious approach when considering the Lakers as a championship contender.
Conclusion
As the upcoming NBA season approaches, the futures market provides an intriguing opportunity for fans and bettors alike. While the LA Clippers boast a strong roster, including the return of Kawhi Leonard, the LA Lakers find themselves grappling with challenges such as injuries, Russell Westbrook’s fit, and lack of depth. Analyzing the dynamics of each team, we assess the Clippers as strong contenders with a genuine chance at winning the championship, while the Lakers face difficult prospects in a competitive conference.
FAQs
1. Can the Clippers win the championship without Kawhi Leonard?
While it would be difficult for the Clippers to win the championship without Kawhi Leonard, they have shown resilience and depth in challenging situations. With players like Paul George, Reggie Jackson, and Terence Mann stepping up in Leonard’s absence, the team remains competitive. However, Leonard’s presence significantly enhances their chances of securing the title.
2. Will the Lakers trade Russell Westbrook?
The Lakers face a challenge in finding a suitable trade partner for Russell Westbrook due to his contract and limited trade value. However, it is not entirely impossible for a trade to occur. The team might explore their options in the early part of the upcoming season if Westbrook’s fit continues to be a concern.
3. What is the impact of Jamal Murray’s return to the Denver Nuggets?
Jamal Murray’s return to the Denver Nuggets provides a significant boost to their roster. His scoring ability and playmaking skills complement the talents of Nikola Jokic, making the Nuggets a formidable opponent in the Western Conference. With Murray back in action, the Nuggets pose an increased threat to teams like the Lakers.
4. Are there any sleeper teams to watch out for in the Western Conference?
While the focus often falls on the perennial contending teams, there are a few sleeper teams that could surprise basketball fans in the Western Conference. The Minnesota Timberwolves, led by Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards, have displayed promising talent and are expected to make strides in their development. Similarly, the New Orleans Pelicans, with Zion Williamson at the helm, possess the potential to emerge as a formidable force if they can stay healthy.
5. How important is team depth in the NBA championship race?
Team depth plays a crucial role in the NBA championship race. While star power is essential, having a strong supporting cast can make a significant difference in overcoming injuries, managing minutes, and maintaining a high level of performance throughout the long and grueling season. Teams with a deep bench and role players who can step up are often better equipped to handle adversity and make deep playoff runs.
