In the NBA, teams are typically built through three primary methods: drafting players, trading for players, and signing players in free agency. With the draft completed and an eventful opening two days of free agency, most team transactions - say, 90% - have already taken place ahead of the upcoming season. As a result, we now have a clearer picture of what the next season will look like. Want to make money off the NBA? BetKing is the best betting site in Nigeria if you prefer online sports betting. Bookmark our Basketball page and be sure to return daily for the best betting offers along with the best odds. However, it's important to note that the remaining 10% of moves still to be made could have a significant impact. For example, former MVP **James Harden (Philadelphia 76ers)** and **Portland Trail Blazers'** star player **Damian Lillard** have both expressed their desire to be traded from their respective teams. Depending on where they end up, especially in Lillard's case as he specifically requested a trade to last season's finalist, the Miami Heat, we may see a new frontrunner emerge as the betting favorite to win the championship next season. **Damian Lillard’s** almost certain exit would have multiple ripple effects, one of them being more room for recently drafted rookie, Scoot Henderson to shine. One of our bet predictions is that he could snatch the Rookie of the Year award from the heavy Victor Wembanyama just like Ja Morant did over Zion Williamson a few years ago.
**Key Trades Made** The past three weeks have been incredibly eventful in the off-season, with 52 players and 27 picks being traded and the Washington Wizards have been at the center of these transactions. Considering their lack of playoff appearances in 4 of the past 5 seasons, the team is expectedly retooling its roster. With the appointment of General Manager Will Dawkins, the Wizards wasted no time in taking action. They traded Bradley Beal to the Phoenix Suns in a deal that involved the inclusion of future hall-of-famer Chris Paul, four first-round pick swaps, six second-round picks, and other valuable assets. This deal instantly makes the Suns a favorite to win the championship next season as the trio of Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker is undoubtedly the most lethal group of scorers in the league. Our bet of the day is that the Suns will win the championship this season, though there are a few concerns about their defense. However, 7.25 is enormous value you should take advantage of:
Subsequently, the Wizards traded Chris Paul to the Golden State Warriors for Jordan Poole, who had expressed unhappiness with the 5-time champions since an altercation with Draymond Green. In another trade, the Wizards sent Kristaps Porzingis to the Boston Celtics in a three-team deal. As part of this trade, the Wizards acquired Tyus Jones from the Grizzlies, while the Celtics' longstanding Guard and the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year, Marcus Smart, joined the Grizzlies. A significant trade in the market involved Max Strus of the Miami Heat, who joined the Cleveland Cavaliers in a sign-and-trade agreement following the signing of a lucrative 4-year, $63 million contract. Max Strus played a vital role for the Miami Heat, starting in all 23 playoff games and receiving high commendation from teammates and coaches for his strong work ethic and proficiency in making three-point shots - something the Cavaliers lacked last year. **Key Players Trades**
**Key Free Agent Moves** In a significant move, Fred VanVleet has left the Toronto Raptors and join the Houston Rockets, led by Head Coach Ime Udoka, on a 3-year, $128.5m contract. This deal marks the largest ever contract for an undrafted player in NBA history. VanVleet, who was a key player in the Raptors' 2019 championship run, showcased his defensive prowess last season by leading the league in deflections and ranking third in steals. With his experience and leadership skills, he brings valuable qualities to a young Rockets team in need of guidance. Controversial figure, Dillon Brooks is also joining the Rockets on a 4-year, $80m deal. Brooks was part of the Memphis team that finished 2nd in the Western Conference last season before getting eliminated by LeBron James and the Lakers in a very dramatic series. The Milwaukee Bucks re-signed Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton to new deals. Lopez had a standout campaign last season as he started in 78 games, averaging 15.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 2.5 blocks per game in 30.4 minutes per game. Khris Middleton, meanwhile, continued to battle injuries. Since winning the 2021 championship, the former all-star has been unlucky with injuries. Last season, he was limited to just 33 games due to right-knee soreness and a wrist injury. Besides the addition of new Head Coach, Adrian Griffin the Bucks haven’t refreshed their team and we expect Giannis Antetokounmpo to have a season like last year where he was a Top 3 MVP candidate. At 5.75, its one of the best odds today on our site as it present significant value for money.
Kyrie Irving has agreed to a 3-year contract worth $126m to rejoin the Dallas Mavericks. Over the past five years, Kyrie has consistently found himself embroiled in various controversies, sparking ongoing discussions. Despite high expectations of a deep playoff run with his addition to the team last season, the Mavericks fell short and missed the playoffs. However, the All-Star Point Guard was among a select group of only seven players who maintained an impressive average of 25 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds per game. Reigning EuroLeague MVP Sasha Vezenkov also agreed to a 3-year, $20M deal with the Sacramento Kings as he joins the NBA. The Bulgarian Power Forward is a 3-time Greek League MVP and adds some size and scoring to a Kings’ team that enjoyed a fine season last year, ending their 16-year playoff drought. Finally, Draymond Green signed a 4-year $100m deal to return to the Golden State Warriors with whom he has won four titles with. Green had been in the middle of a year-long discussion after punching teammate Jordan Poole last season, leading to the realization that both players could not coexist as teammates. With Green's return, there is a prevailing belief that this season could be a significant one for the Warriors, akin to a "Last Dance" scenario. Alongside Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, the trio have won the third most playoff games in NBA history.
**Key Contract Extensions** There were hardly any surprises with the offered contract extensions. Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers), Desmond Bane (Grizzlies), Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves) and LaMelo Ball (Hornets), all inked lucrative 5-year rookie extension deals. All four players have made significant contributions to their respective teams, but it was Haliburton who particularly stood out last year. Following a trade from the Sacramento Kings to the Indiana Pacers, Haliburton's performance was exceptional. He was one of only three players in the league to average an impressive 20 points and 10 assists per game, earning him a spot on the All-Star team for the first time. Recently acquired Center Kristaps Porzingis has also had his contract extended by the Boston Celtics, securing his services for the next three seasons. Porzingis experienced a mix of performances in the past few seasons but had a highly productive year last season with the Wizards, averaging a career-high 23.2 PPG on an impressive 49.8% FG shooting percentage. Standing tall at 7'3", the Latvian player joins forces with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, forming a new formidable trio in the Eastern Conference. As a result, the Celtics have emerged as the frontrunners to reach the finals and one of our betting tips is for you to pick them:. **Key Contract Extensions**