BSNblog

Basketball betting players, fresh off the NCAA Tournament, can get their fill of NBA betting action now that the playoffs are here. Here’s a look at the first-round series in both conferences, and the sportsbook favorites should be able to advance to the next round.

Cavaliers vs Pistons odds (Cavs -4000)

Detroit will be lucky to get a win, and it’ll definitely come at home, as the Cavs were an NBA-best 39-2 in their building. (BSNblog betting pick: Cavs in four)

Celtics vs Bulls odds (Celtics -550)

Celtics odds dropped when it was announced that Kevin Garnett could miss the entire playoffs, but Boston still has enough to get by the Bulls, who will make it interesting with their guard-oriented offense. (NBA betting pick: Celtics in five)

Magic vs 76ers odds (Magic -900)

The Magic have some injury concerns about Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu, but the 76ers have no answer for Dwight Howard on either end of the floor. (NBA betting pick: Magic in five)

Hawks vs Heat odds (Hawks -140)

The Hawks have far too much balance and depth for the one-man Heat, although Michael Beasley finally lived up to his billing in the last month of the season. Dwyane Wade has very good reason to look forward to next year. (NBA betting pick: Hawks in six)

Lakers vs Jazz odds (Lakers -2500)

The Lakers have been in cruise control for the last month of the season, while the Jazz slumped into the playoffs. Still, Utah’s play at home will give them a small glimmer of hope. (NBA betting pick: Lakers in five)

Nuggets vs Hornets odds (Nuggets -230)

This is probably the best matchup New Orleans could have hoped for, but it always seems like Denver is one game away from combusting, despite the influence of Chauncey Billups. This will go the distance. (NBA betting pick: Denver in seven)

Spurs vs Mavericks odds (Spurs -140)

Tony Parker’s ability to penetrate at will against Jason Kidd will be Dallas’ downfall in this Lone Star showdown, and Gregg Popovich will steal at least one game. (NBA betting pick: San Antonio in six)

Trailblazers vs Rockets odds (Trailblazers -135)

Neither team can win consistently on the road, which is why this series will go to seven games. However, Portland has a game-changer in Brandon Roy, and LaMarcus Alridge should be able to have his way in the post. (NBA betting pick: Portland in seven)