A Mega-NBA Power Poll, Advice for KD, Cuban’s Curious Sale and Million Dollar Picks Week 17 With Warren Sharp and Joe House
Dec 28, 2023
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Joe House, a sports betting expert from The Ringer, teams up with analytics guru Warren Sharp to discuss a variety of intriguing topics. They kick off with a comprehensive NBA Power Poll, analyzing the current state of 30 teams. The conversation segues into Kevin Durant's struggles with the Phoenix Suns, unpacking team dynamics and player expectations. Finally, they dive into NFL Week 17 predictions, sharing hot betting tips and strategies, ensuring listeners are set for an action-packed gaming weekend.
The Phoenix team is facing challenges with Kevin Durant expressing his unhappiness about the team's performance.
Mark Cuban has sold a majority stake in the Dallas Mavericks, while still maintaining some influence over the team's basketball operations.
Golden State Warriors have the possibility of making moves in the trade market to strengthen their roster.
Denver Nuggets have maintained their strong performance and are considered as one of the top contenders in the league.
The Milwaukee Bucks have seen improvement in Chris Middleton's performance, which has had a positive impact on the team's overall performance.
Miami Heat could be looking to make trades to improve their wing positions and strengthen their roster.
Deep dives
Phoenix struggles with KD's unhappiness
The Phoenix team is facing challenges with Kevin Durant expressing his unhappiness about the team's performance.
Mark Cuban's sale of the Dallas Mavericks
Mark Cuban has sold a majority stake in the Dallas Mavericks, while still maintaining some influence over the team's basketball operations.
Golden State's trade possibilities
Golden State Warriors have the possibility of making moves in the trade market to strengthen their roster.
Denver's strong performance
Denver Nuggets have maintained their strong performance and are considered as one of the top contenders in the league.
Milwaukee's improvement with Middleton
The Milwaukee Bucks have seen improvement in Chris Middleton's performance, which has had a positive impact on the team's overall performance.
Miami's potential trade targets
Miami Heat could be looking to make trades to improve their wing positions and strengthen their roster.
Philadelphia's attractive trade assets
Philadelphia 76ers have a range of trade assets, making them an attractive option for potential trades in the future.
Rams/Giants Game: Over 44.5 points expected
The upcoming Rams and Giants game is expected to have a high-scoring affair. The weather conditions in New York are favorable, and both teams have key players back from injuries. The Giants will benefit from Tyrod Taylor's return at quarterback, while the Rams have Matthew Stafford leading a fully healthy offense. The Rams defense struggles against play-action, which the Giants can exploit. On the other hand, the Rams offense is expected to have success against the Giants defense. With these factors in mind, the over 44.5 seems like a promising bet for this game.
Panthers/Jaguars Game: Panthers +8.5 and Under 50.5
In the Panthers versus Jaguars game, the Panthers are the underdogs, but they have shown promise in recent weeks. They have covered their last three of four games, including a close game against the Saints. The Jaguars, on the other hand, have struggled as a home favorite and are dealing with multiple key injuries. With the potential of a conservative game plan from both teams, as well as the Panthers' improving defense, taking the Panthers +8.5 and the under 50.5 points seems like a solid option.
Lions/Cowboys Game: Dallas to win 1st half and game, Over 30.5 points from Dallas, Dak Prescott to pass for 300+ yards, CeeDee Lamb to score a touchdown
The Lions vs Cowboys game is expected to show dominance from the Dallas Cowboys. With a team that excels at scoring early and often, the Cowboys have a strong chance of leading in both halves. They have a favorable matchup against the Lions defense, and Dak Prescott is likely to rack up over 300 passing yards. Additionally, CeeDee Lamb has been a reliable target in the end zone, making him a good bet to score a touchdown. Overall, combining these factors creates a promising same-game parlay for the Cowboys.
Bears and Falcons Clash: Bears favored to win with Justin Fields at the helm
The Bears are favored to win their game against the Falcons, with Justin Fields leading the charge. Fields is facing off against the team he may be playing for next year, adding an interesting dynamic to the game. The Falcons, on the other hand, have been struggling and are facing a Bears defense that has shown promise. With the Bears favored by three points, it could be a game to watch.
Broncos Look to Capitalize against Struggling Chargers
The Broncos are set to face the Chargers in a game where they are favored by three and a half points. The Chargers have been struggling and are dealing with injuries, while the Broncos have a clear advantage in their defense against the run. With the potential for success on the ground and a solid defense, the Broncos have a good opportunity to come out on top in this matchup.
The Ringer's Bill Simmons shares his end of 2023 NBA Power Poll in which he ranks all 30 NBA teams (1:06). Then he is joined by Joe House and Warren Sharp to run through their favorite Week 17 games to bet on (58:35), before Bill makes the Million Dollar Picks for NFL Week 17 (2:07:24).
Host: Bill Simmons
Guest: Joe House and Warren Sharp
Producer: Kyle Crichton
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