Betting the NBA Preseason
If bookmakers think there is the potential to make money, you can be assured they will post odds on a game. The NBA preseason is no different, and bettors will find odds on the games at most sportsbooks.
The sportsbooks do limit themselves to taking wagers on sides only and with possibly one or two exceptions, you won't find totals offered.
In many aspects betting the NBA preseason is similar to betting the NFL preseason in that whichever team wants to win the most, usually does. Coaches can play their better players for longer periods of time if they are so inclined.
It shouldn't come as a big surprise to learn then that home teams typically do exceptionally well in the NBA preseason. Through the first week of the 2009-10 NBA season home teams were 18-5 straight up.
It makes sense that teams would try a to win a little harder at home when they're playing in front of the home fans. To the fans, it's still a win, even if it is preseason.
Another aspect where preseason NBA games emulate the NFL is that the coaches will often make their plans known before a game. If a team is going to get a long look at the players who may or may not make the team, the coach will generally say so, although what a coach says and what a coach does can be different things.
Teams with poor attendance or poor records the previous season can generally be counted on to give a good effort at home, especially when they are coming off a dismal road effort. It's a situation worth looking for, as you know you'll be getting a team that wants to play well.
Teams with an influx of new players is another situation to look for, as the coaching staff is likely to give them more playing time together to get some of the kinks worked out.
Don't be afraid to bet the NBA preseason if you believe you have an advantage in terms of motivation or player talent. While the game may not count in the standings, the money you win will spend the same as any other.
