In Greek mythology, Achilles was the greatest warrior. He even acted like a superstar in his day, holding out on Agamemnon for a max contract.
Of course, Achilles had one fatal flaw. When his mother Thetis dipped him into the river Styx to give him invulnerability, she held him by the heel. Because of that, his heel was still susceptible to injury. That weak spot allowed him to get upset in the Trojan War by a lower-seed named Paris. And thus, we get the term "Achilles heel."
Every great player and every great team has an Achilles heel or two. So with that in mind, let's take a look at the top contenders (listed according to the best title odds on bovada) and determine their potential fatal flaws.
Los Angeles Lakers (+240)
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most complete teams we've seen in several years. Not only do they have elite top-end talent, but they'd bolstered the depth chart around them. At this time last year, we may have called their bench or depth their weakness; they responded to that by adding the winner of Sixth Man of the Year (Montrezl Harrell) and the player who finished second for Sixth Man (Dennis Schroder.) Their defense was already elite, and then they added former Defensive Player of the Year Marc Gasol to boot. As in life, the rich get richer.
So does this team have any weakness left? Perhaps. I'd suggest that perimeter shooting is still their biggest wild card. They've been shooting well this season, nailing 38% from beyond the arc as a team (good for 5th best.) At the same time, that's likely to regress. LeBron James is shooting a blistering 41.0% from three (career 34.6). Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is shooting 46.8% from three (career 35.3). Kyle Kuzma is shooting 39.3% from three (career 33.5). Having James and Anthony Davis does allow their supporting cast to get open looks, but we'd still expect these numbers to come down to some degree. If that does, then the fact that the team doesn't shoot many threes (28th most) may be more pronounced.
Overall, you can make the argument that the Lakers lack sharpshooters. Maybe they don't need Steph Curry or even Seth Curry, but they could still use a reliable shooting specialist off the bench to break out in case of emergency. J.J. Redick may be available via trade/buyout. Kyle Korver and Allen Crabbe are available on the waiver wire. These shooters may be negative defenders, but the Lakers are SO good defensively that they should be able to withstand a slight hit in that regard. What may be harder to overcome is a cold stretch from three in a key series.
Brooklyn Nets (+375)
The Brooklyn Nets are an incredible collection of superstar talent, with two of the greatest scorers we've ever seen in Kevin Durant and James Harden and one of the greatest enigmas we've ever experienced in Kyrie Irving. Coupled with Joe Harris, shooting/offense is clearly NOT the problem here.
It doesn't take a basketball expert or even a dumb redditor like me to realize the bigger concern is the defensive end. The Nets' defense is softer than Charmin. Right now, the team ranks 27th in defensive rating, and that number doesn't show many signs of slowing down. Capable defensive-minded forwards are needed here, desperately, especially when the team matches up with some elite SF-PF talent in the playoffs. This post details the situation and potential fixes with more detail, but some potential defenders available include Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Andre Roberson, Noah Vonleh, Dewayne Dedmon, or potential trade/buyout guys like Tony Snell and Trevor Ariza.
Los Angeles Clippers (+550)
The Los Angeles Clippers have one of the best rosters in the NBA. Of course, that was also true last season. Last year's team had an abundance of talent, which tends to happen when you add two stars to a team that had gone 48-34 the year before. They looked and acted the part of a title contender as well -- finishing in the top 5 in offense and defense and roaring to a 3-1 lead over Denver. Unfortunately for them, it's best of seven.
A lot of the problems that plagued last year's disappointment were related to chemistry issues on and off the court. Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell had developed a great rhythm as to-go scorers, and now they were forced to take a step back. Worse yet, their skill set wasn't suited to being 3+D sidekicks. Harrell may be gone, but the "fit" issues with Lou Williams remain. He's still a good scorer, but he's a liability if he doesn't have the ball in his hands. He's off to an even rockier start to this season, logging a - 3.0 box plus/minus so far. Now at age 34, there's a real concern that he's trending towards being a net negative player, especially in this current role. The team should float offers for him now before he lingers too long on the roster and starts to resent his place in the hierarchy.
Milwaukee Bucks (+700)
The Milwaukee Bucks followed up a disappointing postseason with a spectacular offseason. They not only re-signed superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, but they brought in some extra help for him with Jrue Holiday and Bogdan Bogdanovic and --
Wait, what was that? The Bogdanovic signing got blocked? Oh right.
It feels like ages ago, and some may think it was meaningless in hindsight. Bogdanovic hasn't lit the world on fire in Atlanta, and the Bucks will eventually get back to a 1 or 2 seed no matter what. Still, the limited depth at the wing will be an issue for Milwaukee at some point or another.
That issue is most likely to rear its head in the playoffs, because the Bucks tend to play a slightly different way in the postseason. Over the last few seasons, Giannis has played limited minutes as a smallball center in the regular season -- 7%, 27%, 23%, 4% this year (according to basketball-reference.) In the postseason, that tends to expand -- he was at 43% and 35% the last two years. And if you're ultimately playing Giannis "up" as a smallball 5 often, then that means you need to surround him with talented wing players. Pat Connaughton and Donte DiVincenzo have played well, but they're not proven yet. If the plan is to keep Giannis at the 4 more often (with Bobby Portis in tow), then that's a formula that hasn't been proven yet in the postseason yet either. The Bucks may have to figure out answers on the fly, which makes it crucial that Coach Mike Budenholzer is able to adjust accordingly.
Philadelphia 76ers (+1700)
Doc Rivers and his top-notch assistant coaches have done a great job unlocking the potential of the Philadelphia 76ers. They're unleashing Joel Embiid (29.3 PPG) like a kaiju, watching with glee as he smashes through the undersized world of the modern NBA.
That formula -- Embiid surrounded by improved shooting -- clearly works well. It may be enough to power through the playoffs and make the Finals. Still, I wonder if the Sixers need to develop a counter-punch. They don't have a proven Plan B. Right now, their backups at center are traditional big man Dwight Howard and young Tony Bradley, who's decent but not a spacer himself. They haven't been playing much "smallball" right now, with Tobias Harris and Mike Scott both logging only about 4-5% of their minutes at center.
We've seen in the playoffs that "one trick ponies" -- like arguably Giannis on Milwaukee and James Harden on Houston -- can be gameplanned against in the postseason. It's helpful if you have a few more tricks in your bag a la Felix the Cat. Going forward, it may be worth experimenting more with smallball lineups, either for the postseason or in the event of an Embiid injury.
Boston Celtics (+1800)
Coach Brad Stevens is a fan favorite and a media darling. And no doubt about it, he's a legitimately great coach. That said, there may be a false impression about him. Whenever you have a young coach, there's a natural inclination to presume he's some type of offensive mastermind. In reality, he tends to be more defensive minded and disciplined and doesn't run as much of a run-and-gun offense as some of his peers. In the Brad Stevens era, the Celtics' offense has ranked: 18th, 10th, 8th, 18th, 10th, 4th, 9th (for an average of about 11th.) They haven't finished in the top 10 in terms of pace since 2015-16. This isn't anything new for Stevens, whose success at Butler University also came about from good defensive teams. Oftentimes, his offense can stagnate and fall into iso-ball.
Given that, it's going to be a challenge for the Celtics' offense to hum back into the top 5 range that they'd need to win a title. Great players can manufacture offense on their own, but there's been a talent drain over the last few years here in Boston. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are great, but they can't do it alone. The Celtics lack a third star. Ideally, someone who can get his own shot, but also run a good functional halfcourt offense.
Of course, that was supposed to be Kemba Walker. He's the type of guard who can get his own shot a la Kyrie Irving and Isaiah Thomas before him. But with the Celtics, Walker has never looked 100%. He hasn't been distributing like a top end PG. He's the third banana that's not quite ripe yet. From the Celtics' POV, they have to ask: is this issue going to get better? Or worse? If Walker rounds into form, great. But if he continues to decline into his 30s, then they may need to proactively find someone to replace him. Bradley Beal will be on the market soon, C.J. McCollum may be "gettable." The Celtics have enough big contracts and enough prospects to be in the mix for some of these trade targets; Danny Ainge needs to determine whether he needs to cash in some chips sooner than later.
Utah Jazz (+1800)
The Utah Jazz had a bumpy ride last year, from Mike Conley's slump, to Bojan Bogdanovic's injury, to all the drama about Rudy Gobert and COVID. This year, it's been a completely different story; the team's been red hot all season long. Consider this: Donovan Mitchell, Mike Conley, Bojan Bogdanovic, Joe Ingles, and Royce O'Neal are ALL hitting over 40% from three, and Jordan Clarkson isn't far behind them at 39.2%. If their shots keep falling like this, then perhaps they can sustain their top 5 offense and their overall top seed.
Still, the Utah Jazz can call upon their Mormon/christian roots and emphasize charity. That is, the charity stripe. The Jazz don't get to the line often enough. For a high volume scorer, Donovan Mitchell doesn't draw a huge amount of contact (getting 4.4 FTA per game.) For his part, Jordan Clarkson is borderline allergic to the line (1.6 FTA per game despite hitting 97% of them.) The fact that the Jazz don't generate "easy" points at the free throw line makes them more reliant on shot-making. They've been able to do that this season. So far, so good.
Of course, "good" is not the goal -- we're going for "great" here. For Donovan Mitchell to truly take an MVP leap, he needs to be getting to the line at least 7-8 times a game. It won't necessarily be easy, either. He's not a big wing, so it's harder for him to bully his way through traffic and absorb contact. He also has a true center in Rudy Gobert who can clog the paint at times. That said, it'd still be helpful if Quin Snyder and company can encourage him and Clarkson to get to the line a little more often.
Denver Nuggets (+2200)
Although the Denver Nuggets are only 12-10, Nikola Jokic is getting his due as a legitimate MVP candidate right now. As long as the team has a superstar like the Joker and a fire breather like Jamal Murray, they have a puncher's chance of winning a round or two in the playoffs.
That said, the supporting cast still leaves something to be desired. In particular, Gary Harris may not be good enough. He had a great reputation early on as a 3+D guy, but he hasn't backed that up over the last few years. He's shooting 33.3% from three right now, which marks the third season in a row that he's been below 34%. He's not a good rebounder, he's not a great playmaker, and he may be overrated as a defender.
Coach Mike Malone continues to have faith in Harris, trotting him out for 30+ minutes a night. And to his credit, he's playing a little better than he did last year. Still, when push comes to shove in the postseason, this team needs its supporting cast to excel in order to beat teams like the Lakers and Clippers. The Nuggets probably could have put a package together to get Victor Oladipo, and they may be able to get Bradley Beal. It's about time the team started to think about those big swings.

It feels like it's been 5 years since we've seen actual NBA basketball, which may make awards debates and campaigns more difficult. Wait, who was playing well again...? Dennis Schroder? Seriously? Huh. Okay then.
As we soldier back into the bubble, there's a risk that awards voters will forget about that early part of the season (aka the vast majority) and fall victim to recency bias. Given that, we wanted to glance through the major races and determine which -- if any -- awards may still be in debate.
For this exercise, I'm using the current odds as listed by an online betting site (bovada). Note: the percentages do NOT add up to 100% because online betting sites like your money.
MVP
Giannis Antetokounmpo: - 3500 (97%)
LeBron James: +600 (14%)
is the race over?
This betting site heavily favors Giannis Antetokounmpo, although some other metrics have it closer than that. Basketball-reference's MVP tracker lists Giannis at 50.7% and LeBron at 17.3%.
I'm more inclined to believe the latter and that LeBron James would be closer to 15-20% odds. No doubt, Giannis is a worthy MVP. He's been a dominant force (again) for the top statistical team in the league (again.) He's racking up 30-14-6 in only 30.9 minutes per game. In most circumstances, he'd win this award in a walk.
That said, you can never discount "narrative," and LeBron James has a few of those going for him. The Lakers have vaulted up to the # 1 seed in the West, outperforming preseason expectations. James has played exceptionally well, and even led the league in assists. Partly because of that, James' camp has successfully gotten the media to buy into the storyline that he made a sudden transition to point guard (ya know, because he had always deferred to his point guards like Mo Williams and Mario Chalmers in the past...)
More than that, James may benefit from this strange corona-bubble. He's been a leading advocate for continuing on, and as always, players tend to follow his lead. I can see more than a few media members giving James an MVP vote for "saving the season." All in all, I expect this vote to be closer than it should be (and I expect poor James Harden to finish well behind where he should as well.)
So James will get some votes, but can he actually win the award? I wouldn't rule it out. The Lakers are currently 3 games behind the Bucks for the # 1 overall seed. It's hard to imagine Milwaukee losing enough to slip, but it's not Wallace Shawn inconceivable either. If the Lakers somehow manage to catch them, then I actually think LeBron will win MVP. Of course, it's more likely the Bucks will hang onto the # 1 seed, and Giannis will hang onto MVP. But again, I don't think it's a stone cold lock -- yet.
Rookie of the Year
Ja Morant: - 3500 (97%)
Zion Williamson: +850 (11%)
is the race over?
It should be. Zion Williamson is freakin' amazing, but he's played 19 games so far. That's 40 less than Ja Morant, who has played stellar ball for a rookie from a small school, and somehow led the Memphis Grizzlies to the 8th seed.
Still, we can't rule out the risk of recency bias and a wild overreaction from the media. Williamson has a chance to lead the Pelicans up to the 9th spot, at which point they'd play Morant's Grizzlies. If Williamson can lead New Orleans to two victories over Memphis in a row -- and thus leapfrog them in the standings -- then it's very feasible the media would throw their vote his way. The media (and the league as a whole) tends to like this Zion fella, if you haven't noticed.
Sixth Man
Dennis Schroder: - 220 (69%)
Montrezl Harrell: +190 (34%)
Lou Williams: +450 (18%)
Derrick Rose: +3000 (3%)
is the race over?
Simply put: no. It's still a three-man race in my book. The Clippers' Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell finished 1-2 last season, and are right back in the thick of things this year. Among the two, it's harder to justify Williams' winning for the third season in a row. He hasn't played as well as last year, and hasn't been as big of a focal point for the Clippers' game plan.
With Sweet Lou taking a slight step back, it's opened the door for Dennis Schroder. He's having a career season in terms of efficiency. In fact, it's hard to understate his jump this year. In his six previous seasons, his career high true shooting percentage was only 53.3%. This season? He's vaulted up to 57.3%. The question is: have enough voters noticed? OKC has been a feel-good story this year, but Chris Paul and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander tend to get the most credit for that.
Overall, I wouldn't be surprised if voters get lazy and just fall back on the highest scorer among the three. And even by those standards, the race is wide open. Schroder is at 19.0 PPG, Williams is at 18.7 PPG, and Harrell is at 18.6 PPG. A strong (or bad) week or two in the bubble may tilt this race in any direction.
Defensive Player of the Year
Giannis Antetokounmpo: -500 (83%)
Anthony Davis: +200 (33%)
Rudy Gobert: +2800 (3%)
is the race over?
Even among savvy and analytically-inclined media members, "defense" is still something of a mystery to quantify. We see a lot of herd mentality emerge for DPOY voting, with candidates needing to stake their claim early on and campaign all season long.
In terms of storylines and narratives, it felt like Anthony Davis had the early momentum. He's a wrecking ball (1.5 steals, 2.4 blocks) who helped improve the Lakers' defense from # 12 to # 3 this season. Still, Giannis Antetokounmpo has steadily built his case for a double MVP + DPOY, and currently ranks as the betting favorite on this site.
Personally, I believe it's a closer race than these numbers suggest. At the same time, I'm not sure what their play in the bubble is going to do about it. More likely, it'll be an influential media piece (like Zach Lowe pushing for Marc Gasol) that may get voters ushering on one side or another.
Most Improved
Bam Adebayo: -150 (60%)
Brandon Ingram: +250 (29%)
Luka Doncic: +500 (17%)
Jayson Tatum: +900 (10%)
Devonte Graham: +1000 (9%)
is the race over?
Again, this race feels "too close to call" to me. John King and David Chalian may be tallying up the counties all night long.
Earlier this season, I looked back at previous Most Improved winners and tried to find some common threads. On average, the winner improved from 11.7 PPG to 19.6 PPG (roughly +8 points.)
Historically speaking, Brandon Ingram and Jayson Tatum fit close to those templates. Ingram has swelled from 18.3 PPG to 24.3 PPG in his first season in New Orleans (+6). Tatum has made an even bigger leap, going from 15.7 PPG to 23.6 PPG (essentially our exact +8). Of the two, I may lean more to Ingram myself. Tatum's taking more shots and more threes, but he was already considered a proven star prior to this. Ingram had been more of a question mark before, but has now established himself as a potential max player. The key for him has been an improved FT%. In his first three seasons, he shot 62%, 68%, and 68% from the line. This year, he's up to 86%. That's major progress, and represents a massive difference in his efficiency "floor." Still, you wonder if Ingram's momentum peaked too early. Ever since Zion Williamson came back, it feels like Ingram has been an afterthought in the media.
Conversely, Bam Adebayo's reputation within the media is still surging. He's been a major reason for the Miami Heat's success this year, nearly doubling from 8.9 PPG to 16.2 PPG (+7.3 overall.) He's also doubled his assists (from 2.2 to 5.1). If you wanted to nitpick Adebayo's candidacy, you may suggest he was pretty darn good already. A lot of the statistical upswing comes from an increase in minutes, from 23.3 to 34.4 this year.
Overall, I'd say Abebayo is the favorite, but I wouldn't lock it in yet. A player like Brandon Ingram could get hot and have a few 40 point games, at which point the momentum may swing back in his favor.

I thought I’d put together a quick list of the best online gambling sites for the Reddit community. Feel free to add to this list with any of the best ones that I might have missed. Let’s try and make this a go-to resource for anyone who fancies a flutter :)
Here’s my list:
Bovada - Easily the standout choice for sports betting in the U.S. Loads of lines offered, in-play betting available, plus casino and poker games. Great welcome bonus too and it’s a super reputable site.
Ignition - Decent alternative to Bovada. I don’t personally use Ignition but I have a buddy who swears by it. Plus, the reviews on the likes of TrustPilot are highly favourable and it’s definitely a sportsbook you can trust. Best for poker.
PlayOjo - Excellent slots site! Comprehensive selection, lots of specials and again a really reputable site that you can’t go wrong with
Nitrogen Sports - Really good for sports betting but also has casino betting opportunities. Bitcoin accepted, I personally use it now and then for table games. Solid alternative to Bovada (though I use both because you can compare the odds)
LeoVegas - This is both a sportsbook and a casino but I prefer to use it for its casino games. Lots of promos, huge amount of games, good payouts

The Academy Awards nominations will be announced early on Monday morning, with a slew of contenders still in the mix. This year, the race feels more wide open than usual.
Similarly, the NBA title landscape feels more wide open than usual as well in a post KD-Warriors era. Of course, some teams have better chances than others. Let's take a look at some of the top contenders, linked together with their Oscar-hopeful counterparts.
New York Knicks as... CATS
Cats is one of the most successful and beloved Broadway musicals of all time. The New York Knicks are one of the most storied and successful NBA franchises of all time. And if you were born after 1980, you wouldn't know that at all.
Yet despite that, Cats and the Knicks took a bold gambit to compete this year, with spectacularly unsuccessful results. The Cats film adaptation cost a reported $90 million (and probably more), and got back CGI that looks more fitting of a Neal Breen B-picture. Meanwhile, the Knicks splurged on more than $60 million in salary on power forwards alone, with only Marcus Morris living up to the contract so far.
Sacramento Kings as... THE GOLDFINCH
What the hell is The Goldfinch, you ask? We can't blame you for that ignorance. The movie came and went in a flash, despite a very impressive pedigree and high expectations. The 2013 Donna Tartt novel that it's based on won the Pulitzer Prize, leading to a studio bidding war and a high-profile adaptation starring Nicole Kidman. Unfortunately, the film was a clunker, scoring just 24% approval on rottentomatoes.
Meanwhile, the Sacramento Kings came into this season with high expectations for the first time in a while, fresh on the heels of a solid 39-43 season. Unfortunately, this season has been another clunker, causing the team to stumble back to a 15-24 start. There's still young talent here and a potential bright future, but the team may be rethinking its choice of director.
San Antonio Spurs as... A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
There was a time when a Tom Hanks Oscar vehicle would be a frontrunner for the Academy Awards. A few decades later, Hanks continues to chug along and make solid content, but the idea of his movies winning it all again may be behind him. The formula (the likable Hanks as a real life hero like Walt Disney or Sully Sullenbeger or Mr. Rogers) is enough to keep them afloat but not enough to grab the trophy in a world with evolving taste.
Clearly, the venerable San Antonio Spurs are having their same issues. Once a dominant power, they're sifting into "pretty good" status just like A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. For them, making the playoffs, extending their streak, and staying relevant is the real goal.
Portland Trail Blazers as... FORD V FERRARI
Most movies stall out in the development stage, and only get the greenlight once they land a big name star to slap on the marquee. If you can get one? Great. If you can get two? You're gold! Given that, Matt Damon and Christian Bale paired together in a prestige picture sounds like a home run. Unfortunately for the movie, it feels like theirs may be running behind in a crowded field (currently given +5000 odds to win.)
Meanwhile, Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum may be feeling the same way. It's not often you get high-scoring guard on one team -- let alone two. Yet, despite that, the injuries and holes on the rest of the roster have caused the Blazers to slip behind in the crowded race out West. It'll take a comeback for them to even make the field this year.
Oklahoma City Thunder as... RICHARD JEWELL
Director Clint Eastwood recreated the true-life story of security guard Richard Jewell, who was falsely accused for a bombing (the one in Atlanta, not Oklahoma City.) More than anything, the movie's an indictment of the FBI and the media for jumping to conclusions and locking into a narrative before the facts played out.
Sam Presti, Billy Donovan, and the Oklahoma City Thunder may be feeling the same way. After the Russell Westbrook and Paul George trades, OKC was supposed to be terrible. They were supposed to be heading into a deep, dark rebuild that would take 3-4 years at least. As it turns out, that may have been jumping to conclusions. Between Chris Paul and company, there's still a lot of quality veteran talent on this team. Currently at 22-16, they may be a dangerous team in R1 presuming they don't... wait for it... blow it up.
Dallas Mavericks as... THE TWO POPES
Reminiscent of Netflix's show The Crown, feature The Two Popes tells an intimate and personal story about global icons. Here, we see two pontiffs ruminate about their lives and their views on the church. Ultimately, the aging and old-school German Pope Benedict passes the baton to the more modern and progressive Pope Francis.
Meanwhile, in Dallas, we've seen a similar passing of the torch. German icon Dirk Nowitzki ruled the Mavericks for over a decade, but has ultimately handed the reins over to Luka Doncic. Like Pope Francis, Doncic has immediately brought new life to the team and captured the hearts of millions across the globe. Although to be fair, the affable and humble Nowitzki stands in contrast to the curmudgeonly Benedict (as played by Anthony Hopkins.)
Indiana Pacers as... BOMBSHELL
Hm. Uh. Okay, let's be honest, I got nothing here. Still, this gives you a chance to visual T.J. McConnell being asked to dress "sexier" for television. Heck, maybe this is how the Fox News mandate all started -- Roger Ailes developed his fetish for tall blondes after a crush on Rik Smits.
Toronto Raptors as... MARRIAGE STORY
Writedirector Noah Baumbach's intimate and personal Marriage Story is less about a marriage, and more about a divorce. Adam Driver's Charlie agonizes as his spouse leaves him behind to start a new life in Los Angeles. Their separation is agonizing and uncomfortable, but ultimately may lead to some peace of mind for them both.
Similarly, the Toronto Raptors have been dealing with the wake of Kawhi Leonard's own departure to sunny L.A. And to their credit, they've handled it with little stress or wall punching at all, staying relevant in the Eastern Conference playoff chase. Realistically, Toronto and Marriage Story aren't likely contenders to win the overall trophy, but simply making it into the field is a proud achievement for them nonetheless.
Philadelphia 76ers as... JOJO RABBIT
A satiric comedy about a young boy named Jojo and his ol' buddy Adolf Hitler? Why, that sounds like an insane idea and a potential tonal disaster. Yet, somehow, it all works, thanks to the quirky genius of director Taika Waititi, a product of New Zealand.
In Philadelphia, genius Sam Hinkie had his own insane idea: losing and losing and losing some more. There may have been some growing pains here and there, but overall it's been a success as the Sixers are among the best in the league (albeit not likely to actually win it all.) If they're going to crack through, they'll need their young center Jojo Embiid and their own Oceaniac talent Ben Simmons to find the right balance and tone themselves.
Boston Celtics as... LITTLE WOMEN
At first blush, you may think a comparison to "Little Women" would be an insult, but maybe it's time for you to check your TOXIC MASCULINITY!! at the door. After all, these particular Little Women do a fine job in Greta Gerwig's movie (highlighted by young stars Saoirse Ronan and Florence Pugh) portraying plucky siblings who come together and soldier on as a family when their dad heads off to war.
In Boston, there was some uncertainty about what would happen when wannabe-daddy Kyrie Irving checked out. But rather than fold, the family has rallied together, highlighted by their own young stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. In fact, this year's version of the Boston Celtics rank higher in virtually every category (W-L, SRS, offensive rating, defensive rating) than last season's team. Can they actually win the title? That's unlikely. But their future remains as bright as the likes of Gerwig/Ronan/Pugh.
Miami Heat as... KNIVES OUT
Well-regarded director Rian Johnson scored the biggest break of his career when he got tapped to direct Star Wars: The Last Jedi. And seemingly just as quickly, he became scrutinized and vilified on the internet after the movie came out (unjustifiably, in my humble opinion.) In response, Johnson took a step back and wrote/directed Knives Out, a witty and razor-sharp murder mystery featuring a strong ensemble cast. In fact, some suggest the movie is a subtle jab at his critics.
Meanwhile, Jimmy Butler is on a revenge tour of his own. Well-regarded a few years ago, his reputation took a massive hit in Minnesota and then Philadelphia, where he couldn't push potential super-teams over the hump. Instead, he took off for Miami, intent on doing things his own way. And there, he's re-established himself as a top player, thanks in no small part to a strong ensemble cast. This Miami Heat team is deep and well-balanced, and a potential spoiler out East.
Houston Rockets as... UNCUT GEMS
While immensely popular and successful, Adam Sandler has often been a punching bag for critics. This year may change that, as he's finally getting universal praise for his performance as a spiraling jeweler in Uncut Gems. Sandler has a heavy workload in the movie, anchoring almost every scene. One of the elements that helps him in the movie is the frantic pace and energy; there's rarely a dull moment between appearances by Kevin Garnett, the Weeknd, hot girls pleasuring themselves, hot seder dinner action, etc.
Similarly, this season may be when James Harden shakes off the last remaining critics and haters. He's shouldering a huge workload and carrying the team, and is doing a spectacular job at that. And similar to Uncut Gems, one of the reasons that Harden has been so successful this year is the frantic pace. After ditching Chris Paul, the Rockets have vaulted from 26th last season to 2nd in terms of their pace of play. That style has made Harden even more efficient than ever.
Utah Jazz as... 1917
Director Sam Mendes' gripping drama takes you inside the brutality of World War I. Unlike the blitzkriegs of WWII, the "Great War" was best known for their brutal trench warfare, where young soldiers desperately tried and failed to gain mere feet of room.
The Utah Jazz's opponents may have some flashbacks here, as they've tried and failed to get inside the paint as long as "Stifle Tower" Rudy Gobert has been there on patrol. This season marks Utah's fifth year in a row that they've ranked in the top 10 of defensive efficiency. Of course, to actually win the title, the team can't rely on their defensive systems alone. The troops need to rally together to save Mike Conley's career and find some more offensive firepower.
Denver Nuggets as... JOKER
Disregarded and ridiculed by society, Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) ultimately finds his voice and new identity as the "Joker." With it, he unwittingly inspires a movement that attacks the traditional powers-that-be.
Beefy Nikola Jokic, also known as "The Joker", had been disregarded and ridiculed by the NBA draft community that let him stumble to the second round. Despite that, Jokic found his identity as an unconventional point center, helping the Nuggets become of the best teams in the league. While old-school pundits may still mock his game and his frame, it's looking like an increasingly dangerous group in Denver. And if Michael Porter Jr. can fully return from his back issues as well as Batman post Bane, then we could be talking about quite a superpower.
L.A. Lakers as... THE IRISHMAN
Director Martin Scorsese certainly knows about mob movies, but that doesn't mean they're always easy to put together. It took over a decade for the stars to align for The Irishman, the long-awaited reunion between Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino. It may be a near-ancient cast, but it's one that brings the goods in telling the behind-the-scenes story of Jimmy Hoffa.
In terms of the typical NBA landscape, 35-year-old LeBron James may as well be ancient himself. Despite that, he's looked decades younger this season (a la Robert DeNiro.) For DeNiro, the magic fountain of youth came in the form of CGI. For LeBron, it may be another three-letter abbreviation. But however it happened, it's worked like a charm; the "King" is back to dominating and chasing more titles. And while it may have taken a while to put his latest contender together, he finally landed his desired co-star in Anthony Davis. Of course, for the Lakers to win it all, they'll need more contributions from the supporting cast. Joe Pesci is a stellar third banana in The Irishman, while Kyle Kuzma has left something to be desired so far.
Milwaukee Bucks as... PARASITE
South Korean director Bong Joon-ho's Parasite is being hailed as one of the best movies of the year, and is rising the charts as a legitimate contender to win Best Picture. In fact, Bovada lists it as + 250, the second best odds in the entire field. Of course, to actually win the award, the movie would be going against some history. While foreign-language films have been nominated for Best Picture in the past (most recently with Roma last year), none of them have actually won the trophy.
In some ways, we can say the same about foreign-born Giannis Antetokounmpo's pursuit of greatness. Yes, international players have been among the best in the NBA before. Dirk Nowitzki won an MVP trophy and a championship ring, after all. However, that didn't come in the same season. While Nowitzki was universally considered one of the best players of his day, it never felt like he was universally considered THE single best player in the league over the likes of Kobe Bryant or LeBron. But if Giannis can win MVP (again) and lead these Bucks to a title (in the same year), there would be no question about it; the best player in the NBA is not an American. And as with Parasite, there's a good chance of that happening. Bovada lists the Bucks' odds as + 350, the third best in the field and a near match for the movie.
L.A. Clippers as... ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD
You can argue that Leonardo DiCaprio is at the peak of his powers right now, and the top actor in all of town. Not one to rest on his laurels, he teamed up with another superstar in Brad Pitt and worked for a Hall of Fame director in Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood. In the picture, DiCaprio's Rick Dalton attempts to adjust to a changing world around him.
Similarly, you can argue that Kawhi Leonard is at the top of his game and at the top of the NBA totem pole after winning the title in Toronto. Not one to rest of his laurels, he teamed up with another superstar in Paul George and their own Hall of Fame coach in Doc Rivers. If there's any problems with this title-caliber roster, it may be a matter of whether Leonard and George can adjust to a new team in time, particularly one that established a nice chemistry without them last year.
Still, between those two stars and a spicy supporting cast (with Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell proving a spark as our Margot Robbie and Margaret Qualley here), they're going to be a tough group to beat. Like Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, people expect them to come back after a slower-than-expected start and turn on the heat in the final act.

I’ve used Bovada a bit with success but I see a lot of people online saying that it’s not the best choice of betting websites. I also don’t have the option to use my credit card there (instead of bitcoin) anymore and I personally prefer that option. Can I get some suggestions as to which sports betting website is the most reputable for someone based out the US/California?

The NBA rookie of the year award has spotlighted some of the greatest players ever to enter the league. I wanted to take a look at the odds on favorites to win the award and some sleepers who could surprise next season. The ROTY isn’t always the future star of the class: LeBron (2004), Chris Paul (2006), or Durant (2008). Oftentimes, the Rookie of the Year is an older player who is ready to contribute right away: Malcolm Brogdon (2017), Damian Lillard (2013), or Ben Simmons (2018). More often than not, the Rookie of the Year is given to the player with the highest number of combined counting stats per game. So this ranking isn’t who I think will be the best rookie down the road, or even the rookie that will be the best player next year, it’s more about who will put up the most impressive stat line next season.
The Favorite: Zion Williamson (-135)
Zion will be in a favorable situation next season in New Orleans, starting at the four on a team that will probably start 3 other good to great playmakers. Zion will at worst be the number three option as far as scoring goes. The spacing-wise, it won’t be great, but it can only go up from the clogged paint that Williamson dominated at Duke. Zion is a skilled rebounder and passer already, I wouldn’t be surprised if Zion led the team in rebounding year one. Despite being the favorite by a large margin, smart money would be put on Zion.
Stat Projection: 15/8/3
The Lead Challengers: Ja Morant (+300)
Ja should be the lead challenger to Zion’s ROTY candidacy. Ja will be handed the keys to Memphis’ offense from day one. Flanked by a sweet shooting second year big in JJJ and a newly inked Jonas Valanciunas, Morant will be able to show off his passing chops to two great play finishers. Rookie point guards notoriously have a hard time contributing to winning when first joining the league, but scoring inefficiency, turnover problems, and defensive deficiencies usually are overlooked when the player is putting up big scoring and assist numbers. Ja is a talented passer, not quite as good as Trae Young, but in the same stratosphere, and he should throw down some highlight dunks his rookie year. Morant isn’t going to necessarily surprise anyone if he wins, but there’s a reason he has longer odds than Zion.
Stat Projection: 15/4/7
RJ Barrett (+550)
RJ Barrett was the number 1 recruit entering last college basketball season; despite having a historic first season at Duke, he has definitely soured in a lot of NBA people’s eyes. Barrett is still a talented scorer, especially when he gets going downhill. A lot of the negative press got at Duke was due to his tunnel vision, despite this, Barrett is a talented passer with good vision. Although the Knicks famously missed on all of their marquee free agency targets, it doesn’t seem like Barrett is going to be the number one option entering the 2019-20 season. Barrett may not even start on the wing with Knox and Morris at the 3 and Dotson, Bullock, Ellington and Trier all looking for minutes at the 2. I expect Barrett will find his way into the starting lineup once the Knicks’ playoff aspirations are squashed. Even then, Barrett will have to compete for shots not the most pass happy group. I could see Barrett putting up good numbers once the keys are handed to him, I’m just not sure when that will be.
Stat Projection: 14/5/3
Dark Horses: Jarrett Culver (+2500)
Culver may not be a starter day 1 for Minnesota, but he will likely be the first player off the bench and have the ball in his hands often once he’s in the game. Culver played a de facto point guard role last year in Lubbock, where he was able to show off his passing ability. If Culver does manage to find his way into Minnesota’s starting 5, he could be a good bet.
Stat Projection: 10/4/3
Darius Garland (+1800)
The fit with Garland next to Sexton is a peculiar one. Neither Sexton nor Garland is known for their passing chops, so there will definitely be some growing pains. Sexton surprised most people around the league with his ability to hit the three at a good rate; Garland is coming into the league with the reputation as a shooter already. If Garland comes out of the gates putting up big scoring numbers, look for him to be an early favorite for the award.
Stat Projections: 14/2/4
PJ Washington (+10000)
PJ is a long shot. He’s not necessarily a ceiling play, but more of a floor one. PJ was one of my favorite mid-first prospects entering the draft and he got drafted a lot higher than I expected. He isn’t slotted to start at the 4 in Charlotte, that looks to be Marvin Williams, but I could see him (Williams) being moved for salary dumps and picks. PJ is a good defender, solid shooter, and may surprise some people with his 1-on-1 scoring ability. If he can get consistent minutes in Charlotte, and other top picks disappoint for whatever reason, Washington could be a shocker for ROTY.
Stat Projection: 11/6/2
Players I like with no available odds: Brandon Clarke looks like a good fit next to Jaren Jackson Jr. in the long term, but he doesn’t have a direct path to a great deal of playing time his rookie year. I also like Carsen Edwards, an electric scorer that should thrive in Brad Stevens’ offense. Without an obvious backup PG in Boston, Edwards should get steady playing time and is an injury away from substantial minutes. Nicolo Melli turns 29 this season, and provides a stretch big option that the Pelicans desperately need.
The reason why I dislike certain high odd players: Michael Porter (+1800) has a horrifying injury history that just scares me away from this talented player. Coby White (+1800) is a rookie point guard on a team with supposed playoff aspirations, with the addition of Tomas Satoransky, White doesn’t have a direct line to more than 20 minutes per game. DeAndre Hunter (+2500) will probably start at forward for the Hawks, but most of his value will be derived from his ability as a defender. Rui Hachimura (+2500) I’m not a huge fan of Hachimura’s game, but I don’t think he’ll add much outside of his scoring.
All odds are accurate as of August 24th from Bovada

1. KTO

Video gaming sector experts created KTO as a new as well as innovative website which brings you reliable, registered gaming experience. KTO provides ensured services to its consumers and also make them really feel remarkably distinct. The squad running the website has greater than half a century of experience in the wagering market. Providing a vast array of port games and live betting clubs, it also supplies the best chance on the first sporting activities events also. The site constantly expects to adding the most up to date advancements. You can select from a varied variety of Payments treatments, languages and also money. The website is still taking actions to guarantee reasonable as well as safe pc gaming, thus still keeping up with as well as aiding the individuals.

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This site is an impressive online location, with impressive video games being worked on by finest programmers, keep up with their image. This website operates ground-based online casinos together with on-line gaming. You can become an associate of the club or online casino site. Consumer's experience is always essentially perfect that the firm gets respect whatsoever. Casino opts to give comfortable and also protected gaming experience to the customer. They declare to be one of the most popular casino in the UK, and also it appears when you come through the reviews of their online gambling establishment.

1. WILLIAM HILLSIDE

Bookmaker website sub-structured in London is also signed up on London stock exchange. The foundation was laid by William Hillside in 1934, at the time when Britain didn't support gambling. The leading company workplaces are located in the UK although the company runs all over the world, and about 14,000 people are utilized. This website supplies to bet online and likewise by phone. Greater than one million wagers are refined daily. In addition to the sportsbook, it also provides on-line bingo, gambling establishment, skill video games and so on

1. BOVADA

Bovada has been adding to an on the internet pc gaming experience because 2011, far better than anyone. Bets are taken down in the cross-functional sportsbook, Face publication, in the casino poker spaces or land gambling enterprises, are after that placed to retreat. Gamers have enjoyment as well as convenience and enjoy pleasing betting experience. Bovada has become a name in gambling web sites using poker, casino, poker and wagering in sporting activities as well as steed racing, and also one can count on. It can be a centralized location for on-line gaming, as it is taking sporting activities bettors near acting along with being secure and also fast. This is a pleasant site.

1. MY BOOKIE

This on-line betting site is run from Australia, Canada and also the United States. It was released in 2014 as well as is handled by BeOnSports former heads. This website put forward sports betting, games and race betting. The site allured customers via radio advertising campaigns and the internet. It ended up being a repeating sponsor for ESPN radio programs. Live wagering qualities provides the users to put a bet on a video game already in progress. In-play gambling borders essential soccer, tennis, hockey events. Live casino licenses consumers to enjoy preferred table games while they can chat with other users or suppliers during the game via online video streaming.

1. INTERTOPS

InterTops is adding to the pc gaming market by giving contentious chances and also outstanding favours. The firm is setting the highest requirements for the pc gaming industry. It is the globe's significant site for wagering and also on the internet gaming. This website is prancing its customer count in over 180 nations. Five hundred million dollars have actually been paid to the successful individuals around the world. This business is a well-reputed and also reliable source for the on the internet video gaming experience. In any location of on the internet pc gaming, InterTops use modern technology which adds to the enjoyment and pleasure. InterTops site is using 23 techniques. It has actually been placed 36,908 among sites because of 1,518,293 month-to-month site visitors.

1. BETUS

This firm, structured in 1994, is an inconspicuously operated on the internet gaming company offering to bet on online sporting activities, derby and also gaming. Your internet browser can be utilized for on spot video gaming. BetUs runs a mobile programme, m.betus.com. Gamers can check out the on the internet gambling establishment on the mobile website as well can give up their sports wagers. It additionally provides real-time betting. This feature is adjourned during damaging moments and also is resumed in a safe environment.

1. BET9JA

As mentioned by Alexa.com, the second most seen website in Nigeria is Bet9ja. This website uses to bet on prime sport events held in Nigeria. It was inaugurated in 2013. Consumers go to the site for high-rank odds on football and to experience best online wagering solution. It was founded as an offline pc gaming platform versus various other online systems. Bet9ja got a superior action in the first 3 years of operation accompanied by a substantial turnover. The Bet9ja group is constantly enhancing the site by adding up to date as well as interesting features to the website. It earns millions of Naira every year. This website is approved as well as insured under the Lagos State lottery game board. In 2015, Bet9ja was the executive sponsor for Nigeria's Women's Football League.

1. FOLLOWER ORGANIZATION

Hi, FOLLOWER ORGANIZATION exists users with social football experience by giving a platform for the fans where they can connect and engage. Every weekend the participants need to prophesize the end result of English football suits. Competitions can be held between close friends, competence, or the on the internet community and rewards are paid in cash money. This job, includes growth for web, iphone and also Android, was created by Tallium for a Swedish based company. Besides, being a wagering platform as well as reward earning website, this site brings the football neighborhood together. FAN ORGANIZATION mixes the betting with the social structure, which supplies the individuals with an enjoyable gaming understanding. Betting on online games is supplied, as well as the profits are upgraded with every goal that is racked up. At the end of the match, users can see which of their forecasts were exact or off-target. The application also apprises concerning the most up to date football information as well as expertise prognosis on the social feed. Customers can produce leagues as well as evaluate their skills against other participants. The gamers are allowed to attach and also talk using public conversations. FAN LEAGUE choose the professionals, users can get assist from them, as well as they likewise suggest just how to place an effective wager.

1. 3ET

3et is among the brand new software application giving a sole betting service. Bettors are designated totally free as well as safe strategy to the wagering market. Arrangements and accepted wagers are all done by 3et without any voidness. A significant platform is offering the highest possible limitations and most exceptional odds for sporting activities betting. 3et has a method to all vital bookies and also exchanges. 3et advanced half time and edge wagers for football. This website offers individuals one of the most successful betting experience. They mention to be the best as well as purchasers will be so happy they will never need any other sportsbook.3 et belongs to Eurasia sporting activities restricted. They assure open accessibility to their deals without charging the players any kind of commission. This site is easy to use still suffices to catch specialist acknowledgment. Utilizing the 3et app customers can access the bets from anywhere around the globe. It is only obtainable in the English language. Lowest cost bets can be launched at 1 Euro, and when customers obtain the on specifying the occasion, the ultimate price is presented on the slip.

1. BETSAT

Betsat is the current name in the betting market that is established in Turkey. It tries to draw customers from Europe and various other continents and attempting to convince them that the website is adventitious. This company faces significant competition from within the country as well as from the claimed European wagerers. Betsat is ingrained in Turkey, being on the go amongst Turkish players and proudly highlights its viewers. They use multilingual aid to the customers, as well as the web site can additionally be translated in German, Spanish and also English to make sure. This website recommends an indiscriminate blend of sporting activities to draw in Turkish as well as European customers. Football and also basketball are uniformly famed in Turkey as well as around the continent which magnifies the popularity of the website. When it comes round live betting, the site offers to bet on tennis, football basketball after the game has actually begun.

1. INFINIWIN

Rooted in Malaysia, INFINIWIN is the leading online betting workshop. This rejuvenating brand largely concentrates on texas hold'em and also other table gaming products. INFINIWIN provides a remarkably good value of premium video gaming products. They ensure that the individuals are going to get the noticeably superior wagering experience. This website has a superior team aiding the clients as well as assisting the individuals in various languages.

1. MAXBET

MAXBET is currently leading the video gaming industry in Central as well as Eastern parts of Europe with a quickly raising energy. This business is at the forefront of Europe's betting industry following its tactical partnership with Italian lotto game monster Lottomatica. Enthusiastic clients are offered numerous fortunate possibilities for winning at gambling establishments, wagering games and vending machine. Events are arranged on a regular as well as month-to-month basis. MAXBET guarantees that consumers rely on them for a risk-free as well as safe and secure gaming domain name.

1. BETLAND

Betland.com is a well-reputed bookie that runs online and by means of mobile in Nigeria. After its relaunch, it has ended up being even faster and well organized. Odds and also betting lines are used on a series of sporting activities which are just as popular in Nigeria and also other countries as well. Betting supplies on some considerable sporting activities occasions outside Nigeria gives a worldwide personality to the website. Betland aims to provide its services to all groups of bettors neglecting their financial condition.

1. BETSSON

BETSSON uses tradition for gambling, online casino bingo and also sports wagering. This company has actually stemmed from Sweden. It works through 20+ brand names that give video gaming items. This firm financial resources as well as handles the on-line pc gaming business. BETSSON intends to surmount the pc gaming sector in practical manners, although it is among the topmost in Europe.

1. PARIMATCH

Operating given that 1996, PARIMATCH has actually turned into a worldwide video gaming website. They state themselves among the leaders of the video gaming sector and so are always anticipating improving the top quality and automation and also adding to the events daily, stats and evaluation are provided night and day. Users are provided to bank on 20+ sports in above 60 nations along with 200 organizations as well as greater than 600 sporting activities occasions.

1. BET-AT-HOME

This is a European business established in 1999. It was released online in March 2000. Initially, it was rotated to on the internet sporting activities wagering, however it was redesigned with the launch of on-line casino site and also after that the system for playing poker. Different betting options are used on sporting occasions as sports scheduling is the website's main dish.

1. TIPBET

This gambling firm, based in Malta, has actually revealed exceptional growth given that 1995. With a selection of on-line video gaming options, land-based stores are also established. TIPBET sustains wagering and also odds on all primary sporting activities occasions and likewise holds a terrific range of gambling establishment video games.

1. RedZoneSports

A fresh bookmaker taken part in sports wagering, specifically in the UK as well as America is named RedZone Sports. The site is highly in cognition with as well as also possessed by the Spotnation bookies. Argyll Amusement AG. Attacking the gaming sector in 2017, this fresh bookie reveals wonderful rate of interest in America's sportsbooks. The website is regulated by The Gaming Commission, a highly suggested global gambling authority, and this assures the user that the cash they are investing is safe and also secured. With a considerable focus on games like United States football, baseball as well as hoops, this internet site consigns helpful odds on several sporting activities. It is possible for the individual to play online or In-play alternatives are likewise available. This website gives the individual an authentic wagering experience by providing large-scale hypothesizing markets.

1. BetStars Sportsbook

Casino poker celebrity, very acquainted as well as honoured on-line texas hold'em service provider, spin-offs the Betstars website. The website is visited consistently by countless consumers who are intended to seek satisfaction from all the on-line alternatives the website gives. This substantial number of punters seeing the site has actually helped the site being deemed as one of the most rated bookies around the globe.

1. wager

Malta video gaming authority supervises of synchronizing PWR wager, a just recently added mobile-friendly bookmaker site. This site was presented in 2018. This site exceedingly advertises via its application, however as being an Android app, it is unfeasible for the people utilizing the apple iphone. Among others, this site provides betting on the derby, football as well as additionally sustains E-Sports wagering.

1. MoPlay Sportsbook

MyMoPlay collaborates with Manchester United along with Watford FC. The business has actually been taken down by IBAS, which forefronts its dependence as a good pc gaming system. Customers can locate a large series of sports to bet on. It also introduced its app for the best online experience in sports wagering.

1. RoBet Sportsbook

RoBet established foot into the European on-line bookie market in 2019. Government of Curacao oversees the site guaranteeing that it goes along with honest implementation of sporting activities scheduling. The customers can confide in them for leisure ventures.

1. Jetbull Sportsbook

Jetbull was founded in 2007. This site is secondary to OddsMatrix. Different languages are passed on the internet site. The site has ingrained markets in football, supplying countless chances yet is concentrated constrained to concentrate on US players.

1. LuckyBet

Luckybet uses open chances for European, Canadian players and likewise gamers from New Zealand. Abundant gaming choices as well as rewards as well as the contemporary website design includes in the impact the site has on gamblers and punters. Many online internet sites attempt to reproduce their articulation.

1. Redbet

Redbet, a premier online casino brand name intervened in the on theinternet sporting activities reserving industry. This site was produced in 2002 with a mission of producing fun for the individual by attracting them to the website by supplying successful chances. It is a well-reputed website where the gamer's joy is the initial issue.

1. Fonbet

FonBet was introduced previously in 2002. This site is a Russian bookie site. Russia as well as Eastern Europe birth a substantial number of participants of FonBet. This bookie is certified in Curacao. Therefore the certificate, the site detains, UK as well as UNITED STATES consumers are limited from making use of the on-line bookie.

1. ComeOn

ComeOn became a brand-new bookie website in 2009. It is a secondary firm of Co-Gaming Limited. Malta Pc gaming Authority administrates the site. To operate in the UK, they are accredited from the UK Gambling Compensation. Markets of Scandinavia are the prime focus of the site.

1. Marathonbet

Marathonbet was acknowledged in 1997 as a self -reliant bookmakers site. It is run by Panbet Limited, a firm that is in charge of running retail barters in the UK. This bookmaker website is deeply committed towards the UK members although it is well-reputed worldwide

1. MyBet

It is hosting the tremendous variety of sporting competitions regarding greater than 14,000, this site is a significant on-line bookie and has a superb great deal of customers around the continent. Besides offering various high-grade sportsbook events, it designates the players assurance with the modern technology that is comparable to Europe's safety criteria.

1. Betbarter

This is the primary and the most relied on the site of India. It is an on the internet showing off occasion betting site. The web site is amazing as well as uses straightforward expression. Individuals can select BetBarter versus their competitor whenever. The bargains made by BetBarter protrude the marketplace. BetBarter likewise inspects the internet sites which provide fast payments and also various other feasible means of withdrawals.

1. Bodog888

Bodog888 is recognized to be a participant of the world-famous gambling enterprise Bodog and is sometimes acknowledged as Bodog Asia. This site gives a huge range of moral online casino and also texas hold'em wagering. It also involves Oriental bettors by sporting activities reserving. This site has gained the distinction by offering the very best performance as well as illustratory attributes. The website supplies the best aid and also rewards.

1. BetEast

Arised from Asia in 2016, BetEast asserts to be the most effective expanding wagering brand name. This business offers a substantial range of eSports solutions, casino site and live wagering as well as values subscriptions from worldwide. Its emphasis is to make a dash out there of Europe. The simplicity of the website format hits the customer instantly. The company has a substantial interest in the UK Betting markets. The site offers a comprehensive betting experience with giving a substantial number of on-line port video games.

1. Bet-at-home

This company arised in 1999 later on releasing its website in March 2000. It soon became a supply firm and was provided at the stock market. This website is a credible sponsor for worldwide game events. It supplies betting odds on prominent gaming occasions. Followed by more than 4 million customers, it has become one of a kind sports scheduling site in Europe. All the info regarding the wagers placed as well as payouts are offered on their site.

1. Setantabet

This website offers important odds on pc gaming and also horse racing. The website is compatible with mostly all mobile devices. The website has a substantial collection of slot video games and gambling enterprises for the customers. It additionally features a live gambling establishment with single and multiplayer choices. The website likewise aids the individuals through live Chat.

1. CasinoSahara

It is a little gambling establishment on account of the gathered earnings, yet is taken into consideration a hot area. This internet site is readily available in a range of languages. Live betting games are readily available with different payment methods. Live Conversation is not open 24/7 that is somewhat a drawback to the website.

1. BetEasy

This bookie website, established in 2014, emerges from Australia giving online betting and sporting activities remedies to the clients. This site is a subsidiary of The Celebrity Team. This website formally funds the Australian Football Organization.
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1. SuperBet

This is a South African bookies website established in 2008. The website captivates clients from around the continent. In addition to offering considerable betting games collection online, this site runs 50 land-based stores in Africa. The arrangement with EFC includes in the compatibility of the website.
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1. CasiniaBet

As opposed to the suitable bookies, Casinia wagered offers fewer choices for online betting as well as video gaming occasions. Still, the considerable contests are offered proper coverage that makes it challenging for the punters to separate between the leading bookies and also CasinoBet sportsbooks.
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1. mercurybet

This is a leading online video gaming website as well as online pc gaming. This website amplifies your exhilaration and gives you with a pleasurable experience with its thrilling wagering system. Customers can challenge themselves and also others with day-to-day and regular promotions.
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1. Jojobet

This site interacts with a large range of video gaming markets. This website supports bitcoins which includes in the variety of individuals around the world. This website has gained significant repute quickly by providing high odds on numerous betting games. It gives its clients with appreciable services.
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1. Bet8

This is a legally run business in Greece and also declares to satisfy also one of the most requiring clients This is website offers you to bet on above 11,000 sports events taking place on a monthly basis. The site likewise offers excellent probabilities with low price margins to its valuable consumers.
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1. Blackbet

This site is greatly giving a greatly favorable experience to its customers. It is dealt with by passionate staff member intending to offer an outstanding service to the punters. More than 20 sports are available for live betting at this reservation website.
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1. WinnerUK

This website is very recommended for scheduling on competition. They supply great recurring offers together with other recognized promos. This is a powerful yet well-assisting platform for on-line betting as well as sportsbooking.
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1. Wager at Home

Bet-at-home is the certified bookie based in Malta and also Austria. Their company went on expanding with the discussion of an on the internet gambling establishment in 2005. They later on developed into a supply partnership and also in 2009 became a part of the Betclic Everest Team. Their management centre is currently at Portomaso Business Tower in Malta as well as is accredited and controlled by the Malta Gambling Payment.
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1. Twinspires

It is just one of the earliest name present in the field of on the internet sporting activities betting, having actually grabbed popularity amongst customers given that its facility right around ten years in the past. Authorized by the UK Gaming Commission, it is just one of the most relied on on-line betting sites available.
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1. One Hash

One Hash is already the market head in wagering all over the world, with a huge variety of clients in many countries. Their wagering deals pre-competition or online wagering is very broad. Additionally, this manager communicates its online gushing TELEVISION terminal, countless pc gaming competitors.
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1. Mr Eco-friendly

On a remarkable assortment of video games, a vast array of wagers are used by bookmakers, which are determined based on chance. By wagering on these unique possibilities, a bettor can get money on rewarding wagers. It is consistently the situation that the very best online wagering sites for sports will be those that use the very best prospective benefits.

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THE MAC is put his money where his mouth is last night, releasing a top rated HUSH MONEY PLAY on SAN JOSE STATE +15 vs SANTA CLARA -15, Final Score: 84-89, Spartans cover easily, once again proving why they continuously acclaim him to be a National Treasure!! The MAC doesn't go where the game is, he brings you where the money is when he puts his nuts right on the line and gets paid to do it! NFL Early Info plays are up and ready and tonight's College B-Ball action is set to go our direction today. This week he is getting that football geetus with conviction, doing his homework and keeping open lines of discourse between his consensus groups and other affiliated player syndicates across the country.
Wednesday a interlocutor for our Los Angeles group confirmed significant information and highlighted a key angle in the Spartans-Broncos & the Saint Marys CA-Arizona St matchups. The Spartans covered by more than 10 points, Saint Marys got it done the right way, it goes without saying that we cleaned up yesterday! This is the type of action that makes THE MAC's Top Rated Premium Plays like no others! The RedAlertWagers.com college basketball hush money plays have been atomic all season, tonight The Mac has a Major Move Alert on (NORTHERN ILLINOIS -18 vs CHICAGO STATE +18), action starts at 8:00 PM EST. The MAC has been playing and fading these teams for years, knowing when to lay or take points with CBB teams like the Huskies, Gaels, Bulldogs, and Explorers has aggrandized THE MAC's reputation for his college hoops hush money action. These types of moves are why people recommend THE MAC'S PLAYS, making him one of the most venerable sources for top rated picks against the spread, and lionizing RedAlertWagers.com in and around sportsbooks and casinos! THE MAC is not only loaded with CBB gifts from the odds-makers this year, and make no mistake, he very much is anticipating the outcome of his Hush Money Play on NORTHERN ILLINOIS -18 vs CHICAGO STATE +18, but The Mac has his attention focused on tomorrows BAHAMAS BOWL EARLY INFO COLLEGE FOOTBALL ACTION on the BUFFALO U -6.5 vs CHARLOTTE +6.5 game , Kickoff @ 2:00. The MAC'S Early Info on this line mistake has RedAlertWagers.com moving heavy, with no apprehensions!! - $25 a month gets access to all exclusive releases and top rated premium plays!
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The Mac is Cocked, Locked and Loaded with forbidden knowledge that has kept consistent against the spread, nothing is stopping him from Booyahhing his bookie this week.
The RedAlertWagers.com Los Angeles college basketball consensus group has confirmed a MAJOR MOVE ALERT PLAY in a College Hoops match up between (NORTHERN ILLINOIS -18 vs CHICAGO STATE +18). As they were discussing the key figures and instructions for this mismatch with a soft line, The MAC started updating his best players about this information early, in anticipation of and before the major movers and shakers unreluctantly unload on it! The MAC is poised to collect on these college games and is telling his players to lite the fuse and watch their bookies explode!! A lot of guys shoot a arrow and paint a bulls-eye around it afterwards, not The Mac...THE MAC proves that he has tapped directly into the mainframe and shows it!!
Top Rated Special Release Plays by Red Alert Wagers SS LLC Consensus groups have been impressive all week, and our NFL Major Move Alerts and Back Room Info Plays are cracking bookies open and cleaning them out! We don't go where the game is, we bring YOU where the money is!!
The MAC has made a incredible run last week building UPP Patreon members bankrolls, winning a play means nothing without strict bankroll management!
(DEC 19) UPP RISK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM PLAYS The Mac also applies a disciplined money management system to his game! Weekly Bankroll: (DEC 16 - 22)
DAY 4 THURSDAY BANKROLL: +20 UNITS (DEC 19) - BANKROLL RISK: 62 UNITS LAST WEEKS RESULTS: (DEC 09 -15) - 7 DAY BANKROLL: +124 UNITS
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Today, McGuillaman is releasing his TOP RATED PREMIUM PLAYS including -

• A NFL EARLY INFO PLAY (DEC 22) - (NEW YORK GIANTS +2.5 vs WASHINGTON REDSKINS -2.5)
• A NCAAB HUSH MONEY PLAY (DEC 19) involving a team The Mac has been collecting cash with for years! - (HOFSTRA +2.5 vs PRINCETON -2.5)
• NCAAB MAJOR MOVE PLAY (DEC 19) - (NORTHERN ILLINOIS -18 vs CHICAGO STATE +18)
• NCAAB LATE INFO PLAY (DEC 19) - (EASTERN KENTUCKY +11.5 vs MARSHALL -11.5)
• 2 NCAAF EARLY INFO PLAYS (DEC 20 -21) - (BUFFALO U -6.5 vs CHARLOTTE +6.5, UAB +16.5 vs APPALACHIAN STATE -16.5)
• NFL EARLY INFO PLAY (DEC 21) - (BUFFALO BILLS vs NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS O/U 38)
• 12 RED ALERT PLAYS including a EARLY ALERT NCAAF & NFL PLAYS + CBB RED ALERT ACTION TONIGHT!!
• A SPECIAL NCAAF RED ALERT PLAY (DEC 21) - (N. CAROLINA A&T -2.5 vs ALCORN ST +2.5)
• + 3 MAC ATTACK EXCLUSIVE FREE PICKS, including 3 picks against the spread, a 2 team NBA parlay bonus pick, and a fun play 7 point NFL teaser play!
• A FREE Early Info Easy Money MMA play on the upcoming UFC 246 event and our Annual Free Rose Bowl Prediction + International and Domestic Soccer Predictions, International Basketball Predictions against the spread that will leave your bookie clueless!
• And for a limited time our Daily Play Patreon Members are getting access to our MAJOR PLAY ALERTS including tonight's EARLY INFO NFL PLAY for FREE!
• Take a 1 day ride with a RED PASS for $14.99 - All Of Today's Top Rated Plays & Premium Releases - 1 Time Fee - 1 day Access! - (The MAC'S 1 Day Pass)

DAILY MAC ATTACK FREE PICKS
NHL MAC ATTACK PICK (DEC 19) - (COLORADO AVALANCHE -110) BOXING MAC ATTACK PICK (DEC 19) - (JACK MASSEY +850) NCAAF MAC ATTACK PLAY (DEC 20) - (UTAH STATE -7)
!!FREE DAILY FUN PLAY TEASER & PARLAY PICKS!!
FUN PLAY 2 TEAM NBA PARLAY!! (DEC 19) - (BROOKLYN NETS +3 X LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS OVER 234)
FUN PLAY 2 TEAM NFL 7 POINT TEASER!! (DEC 22) - (SEATTLE SEAHAWKS -2.5 x ARIZONA CARDINALS +16.5) *MACS MIDDLE GAME*
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2 years ago: Bovada Is Unsafe (Serious)
King mod anonymous7: Confirmed: OP is a highly reputable redditor.
So who was it, and was the apocalypse cancelled?

I am a reputable poster here and for various reasons I'd like to keep my identity unknown to some degree. I'm posting this now as I've been seeing more and more posts on Bovada here lately, and having this info and seeing other redditors possibly get shafted by another site/government would be worrisome to say the least.
Essentially I have info on Bovada from a very good source (extremely reliable source with inside info) that says that they will be taken down sometime soon (with-in the next 6 months being extremely likely, and could be any day).
I realize that Bovada has the best schedule to play on right now, and has the fastest cash-outs and is the softest. So with these to keep in mind, I just strongly suggest to anyone who has funds on there, to keep the near minimum of what they need on there to play. (Or to just keep what you can afford to have stolen from you, if that does happen soon)
I still think at this time it is worth taking the risk to have funds on there, however keep the lowest amount you need to play, and if it gets taken, make sure it is an amount you don't care much about.
Edit: This is not a troll. I will pm a mod with my identity and they can confirm that I am a legit poster.

A few weeks ago, I laid a few degen bets on an e-sports event future at Bovada, one of which actually hit ($10 @ +1200, Team Liquid to reach the finals).
The win was graded as a win, however, I was looking at my balance to review the rollovers, and I noticed they ONLY GAVE ME $65, exactly half the amount I was supposed to receive ($10 wager + $120 winnings).
I emailed customer support, and upon their first response, I was told they were "unable to locate the wager with Reference Number xxxx. For further assistance, please provide us the correct details of your wager."
I emailed them back with the exact same number and provided a screenshot of my transaction history as well.
After being told to wait, I waited another 3-4 days and emailed again, and after a little over a week, I was finally credited properly. They also updated my rollover properly as well, although that's extremely minor all things considered.
I don't think Bovada is intentionally trying to scam anyone, but this is a general reminder that it's pretty important to review everything and make sure the numbers are right. Remember, unless you're dealing with fully legal books like in the UK, Denmark, or AU, for example, most books, like the ones available to Americans, are semi-shady, even if reputable.

I remember reading about this a couple of months ago when Bovada first offered this option. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I remember reading about not using the more respectable sites to withdraw money directly since it's against their T&C. One way around that is withdrawing to a less reputable wallet and then transferring to one of the more reputable sites.
As a person who has never dealt with bitcoin, I was wondering if you guys can recommend some sites I can use. It'll be my first time withdrawing from Bovada and I can come back and describe my experience with the bitcoin option afterwards.

As per my title, I'd like a little $ on either of those two sites, but I only have bitcoin at the moment to spend...
Anyone want to trade? Reputable posters with some history only please.
EDIT: Sorry, title is misleading. I have Bitcoin, you have Stars or Bovada $, we trade.

I'm a bitcoin newb but i know that this is the fastest method to get your funds on Bovada. Can someone help me with a step by step process to setup an account on a reputable site and then include what to do next to send to my bank. Really appreciate it!

This is still valid and working as of September 2020
Understanding and using Bitcoin isn't as complicated as people make it out to be.
Perhaps you're already one of the many people who have bitcoin. If so, excellent! you can skip the first part of this guide that explains how to buy bitcoin. If not, using Coinbase is the easiest way to get started buying Bitcoin in the USA. Just link up your bank account (and credit/debit card for instant buys) and click "buy". It's really that simple. Your bitcoin is deposited into your Coinbase account nearly instantaneously.
You should also have a bitcoin wallet on your computer as you don't want to transfer your bitcoin to a gambling site directly from Coinbase. I recommend a wallet called Electrum.
The bitcoins you bought can now be sent to your Electrum Wallet. Once you send them from Coinbase, they appear in your wallet within a few minutes.
Now that you have taken care of that, you need an account at a reputable sports gambling / poker / blackjack website. I use Bovada. I can't recommend them enough. I haven't seen any complaints about them since I have been using them. They have all sports and all prop bets. There are huge bonuses (currently $3,750) for first time sign ups. You get instant access to their fully-loaded Sportsbook, Casino, Live Dealer, Poker Room and Racebook.
Once your account is created, send your bitcoin from your electrum wallet to your Bovada account. Once again, this will happen very quickly. Usually within a few minutes.
That's it! There's really nothing to it. Once you do it once, it will all make sense.
Whenever you want to cash out your winnings, you just do the reverse. Send your bitcoins from your Bovada account to your Electrum Wallet, and them send them on to your coinbase account. Once in coinbase you can sell them and have the cash deposited back into the checking account you originally bought the coins with.
Good Luck!
This is still valid and working as of September 2020

Dear poker,
I'm just getting started in the game and having been lurking here and elsewhere on the poker interwebz for a couple of weeks now. To make a long story short, I was attracted to poker due to its reputation as a skill game in which you can make a lot of money if you put in the time and effort to get good. This is somewhat in contrast to two other skill games to which I have devoted insane amounts of time (pool and chess - where in some cases, even the best on the planet struggle to make even a modest living).
So that's the background I'm coming from, and I ask you poker: is poker really a skill game?
 
I'm aware of most of the common arguments (e.g. poker is 90% luck in the short run and 99% skill in the long run, etc.), and I apologize if we've discussed this question before (I didn't find much searching through past posts). In any case, I was hoping we could expand the discussion somewhat or get a bit meta if y'all are up for it.
 
I've been reading a ton of literature on the subject, and most authors seem to argue that yes, poker is indeed a skill game. I've also seen JCarver cash in multiple tournaments in a relatively short period of time over the past few weeks, and that too points towards the skill aspect of poker.
That being said, I had an interesting session playing 5NL on Bovada recently. I only played for like 1.5 hours (something like 60 hands (single table because I'm a rookie)), and all of this happened in that short period of time:

• I was dealt pocket fours four times. Two of these times, I flopped a set against a terribly "unlucky" opponent holding KK or AA who then proceeded to get all in with me and didn't hit anything on the turn or river.
  
• I flopped a straight flush (A to 5) holding 52s against an "unlucky" opponent holding AA who therefore hit a set on the flop and proceeded to get crushed.
  

 
Obviously this was all a blast for me, but seriously, what are the chances of stuff like that happening over such a small number of hands? I haven't gotten to the stage of studying the good ol' poker maths in any detail yet, but it has to be just infinitesimal.
 
So again, poker, I ask: is poker really a skill game? Stories of insanely low probability situations and links to articles on the subject are highly welcomed.
And finally, thank you poker for curating such an awesome set of resources. I think I speak for all new players here when I say that it is a huge help and a great way to get into the game.