NBA Conference Semifinals: Game Preview and Betting Odds

The 2018 NBA playoffs are in full swing, and there are now just eight teams remaining and fighting for a spot in the Conference Finals. The action of this year's playoffs has been excellent so far, and we hope it only gets better; if that's possible. But now, all eight teams are fighting to remain on the hard court, but the underdogs will need to climb back into the race if they are to have any chance of making a run. 

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics, May 7 at 23:00 GMT

The 76ers are down 3-0 and will need a miracle to outlast the Boston Celtics. Boston won the first two games of the best-of-seven series handily, but, in Game 3 they were forced to pull out an overtime win, which could be a sign that Philadelphia is going for a major comeback, but, will it be enough? Their next game is tonight at 23:00 GMT and Philadelphia has the home-court advantage again tonight. Coming back from a 3-game deficit is not common in the playoffs, especially for a team with limited playoff experience, at least in the modern day, but that is exactly what Philly needs to do, or else they will find themselves off the court until next season. 

Even with the home-court advantage, Philly is still the underdog and will need to overcome tough odds to get the win. Betfair Sports has posted odds in favor of Boston at 1.40, and, 3.10 for the 76ers. 

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Toronto Raptors, May 7 at 1:30 GMT

This series has been one of the best to watch, and fans have really gotten their money's worth. The Raptors, who were the best team in the Eastern Conference this season are down 3-0 and are on the ropes, but, hopefully not out just yet. LeBron James has been showing the world that he is not going anywhere, as he continues to score upwards of 40-points per game. Games 1 and 3 were incredibly close and could've gone either way. A basket here a missed call there and voila, the Cavs are on top 3-0. This really just proves that the regular season is one thing, but, playoff experience is something else entirely and if the Cavs looked like their chances were slim throughout 2017/18, things have changed now. 

888 Sport likes the Cavs' chances playing at home tonight for Game 4, and have them as favorites at 1.40 to the Raptors' 3.10. 

Houston Rockets vs. Utah Jazz, May 8 at 1:30 GMT

James Harden has led the Rockets to a 3-1 lead over the Jazz and has had a chance to help lift his team to the Conference Finals. Harden is one of the most exciting players to watch in the entire NBA and has lifted his game in this years' postseason. The Jazz got a Game 2 win while in Houston, and, if they are to have any chance of staying in the playoffs, they will need to get another one on-the-road. 

There is an interested betting market that 888 Sport is offering now for punters eager to put a bet on any of the teams remaining in the playoffs. Right now, punters can place a bet on the outright winner of the 2018 NBA Championships and get some very attractive odds on the way. The Rockets are the second-highest ranked team (aside from the Warriors) at 2.75 to win a championship. Take for another example the Jazz. If they can make a comeback, and, somehow win a ring, punters will receive odds at 151.0, but, it would be a significant waste of a bet as it looks like the Rockets will close things out very soon.

Golden State Warriors vs. New Orleans Pelicans, May 8 at 3:30 GMT

With Steph Curry back in the lineup and Kevin Durant still at the top of his game, the Warriors look poised to make it to the Conference Finals, and, to make it to yet another Finals. The series is at 3-1 in favor of the reigning NBA Champions, but, the Pelicans have been playing some excellent basketball and could pose a problem for Steve Kerr and Co. in Game 5. Then again, the Warriors are at home and are huge favorites to win. In fact, Betfair Sports has posted very lopsided odds in favor of Golden State at 1.12, while the Pelicans are at 7.00.