NBA Play-In Betting Guide: New Orleans Pelicans vs. Sacramento Kings

NBA Play-In Betting Guide: New Orleans Pelicans vs. Sacra...

By Oliver Wiener April 18, 2024 15:50

The upcoming NBA Play-In game on April 19th, 2024 between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Sacramento Kings promises to be a thrilling encounter with high stakes. In this comprehensive betting guide, we will delve into the betting odds for the game, provide insights into the teams, discuss relevant key injuries, and make a well-analyzed prediction on which team is likely to emerge as the winner.

Game Details

Date: April 19th, 2024
Time: 9:30 PM ET
Location: Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, LA
TV: TNT

Betting Odds

The betting odds for the game are as follows:

Sacramento Kings: -1.5 (-112)
New Orleans Pelicans: +1.5 (-108)
Moneyline: Sacramento Kings -102, New Orleans Pelicans -116
Over/Under: 215.5 points

Key Injuries

Zion Williamson (Pelicans): Williamson exited the recent game with a hamstring injury and has been ruled out for the upcoming Play-In game against the Kings, which significantly impacts the Pelicans' lineup and offensive capabilities.
Kevin Huerter and Malik Monk (Kings): Both players will be out for the Kings, affecting the team's depth and rotational options.

Teams' Recent Performance

The Pelicans have had a strong season, winning 49 games, while the Kings have shown improvement with 46 wins. However, the Pelicans have had the upper hand in their matchups against the Kings, sweeping the season series and holding an 8-2 record over the last 10 games against the Kings.

Players to Watch

De'Aaron Fox (Kings): Fox has been a standout performer for the Kings, averaging 26.6 points per game and playing a pivotal role in the team's offensive strategy. His performance will be crucial in dictating the Kings' offensive tempo and playmaking abilities.
Keegan Murray (Kings): Murray's impressive scoring abilities, as demonstrated in the recent game against the Warriors, highlight his potential impact in the upcoming Play-In game. His consistency and offensive contributions will be essential for the Kings' chances of securing a victory.
Brandon Ingram (Pelicans): Ingram's return from a knee contusion will be closely monitored, as his presence and offensive contributions significantly impact the Pelicans' performance. His ability to influence the game through scoring and playmaking will be pivotal for the Pelicans.

Betting Prediction

Given the recent performances of both teams and the projected point total, the models and odds favor the Kings to cover the spread and secure a win in this crucial matchup. The absence of Zion Williamson and the Pelicans' dominance over the Kings in the regular season series position the Kings as the favorites to emerge victorious in this winner-take-all game.

While the Pelicans have been a formidable team throughout the season, the impact of key injuries, coupled with the Kings' strong offensive capabilities and improved defensive strategies, suggest that the Kings are likely to seize the opportunity and secure a significant win in this pivotal NBA Play-In Tournament matchup.