NBA Conference Finals Preview + Best Bets

Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers talk NBA Conference Finals betting. The guys also give out best bets.

This episode of RJ Bell’s Dream Preview features hosts Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers analyzing the 2024 NBA Conference Finals based on recent Game 7 outcomes, team trends, player performances, and betting odds. Munaf introduces the matchups, focusing on the Oklahoma City Thunder’s dominant 125–93 victory over the Denver Nuggets. SGA led with 35 points, while Jalen Williams added 24. The Thunder’s defense clamped down after the first quarter, and the game became one-sided by halftime. Mackenzie emphasized that this was one of the most lopsided Game 7s in NBA history and criticized analysts for underestimating OKC.

SGA’s playoff run is highlighted as historically elite. Mackenzie cites stats placing SGA alongside Jordan and LeBron in terms of efficiency and playoff production, calling him the true standout of this postseason. He also criticizes NBA media for not giving SGA due credit and believes the Thunder are significantly undervalued by betting markets. The hosts favor OKC in their series against the Timberwolves, recommending bets on Thunder -1.5 games (-140). They argue Minnesota’s playoff path has been easier and note that OKC’s defense, including players like Caruso, Dort, and Jalen Williams, is particularly effective against stars like Anthony Edwards.

The conversation pivots to props, with Mackenzie suggesting Anthony Edwards under 26.5 points and Munaf recommending pivoting to Edwards’ assists over 4.5, given his distribution role when facing pressure defenses. Attention then shifts to the Eastern Conference Finals between the Knicks and Pacers. The Knicks are favored (-145), and Mackenzie recalls that last year’s series loss came without key players like Mitchell Robinson, who is now healthy and central to their defense. Both hosts agree the Knicks are deeper and more playoff-ready, especially with Jalen Brunson averaging nearly 30 PPG against Indiana and Karl-Anthony Towns showing breakout potential. They support a Knicks Game 1 -4 bet and consider Towns (13-1) a value pick for East Finals MVP.

For Game 1 of Thunder-Timberwolves, Munaf’s best bet is the under (215.5), supported by OKC’s playoff pace trends and Minnesota’s preference for slower half-court sets. Mackenzie agrees, noting the Thunder's short rest and defensive versatility. The episode concludes with a recap of best bets, a promo code (RIM10), and brief updates on MLB and NFL betting.

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