Western Conference Odds: Minnesota Value and Lakers’ Hot Start

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Minnesota Offers Intrigue in a Western Conference Still Viewed as a Two-Team Race

San Antonio and Oklahoma City may be the easy talking points in the Western Conference, but Utah, Denver, Houston and Minnesota also deserve consideration. Houston’s strong start could be fool’s gold, while Minnesota may offer value despite its injuries.

Anthony Edwards’ injury is unfortunate because Minnesota could be a contender with him healthy. The team will miss Naz Reid, who was traded, but it also moved on from Julius Randle. Based on how people in Minnesota discussed the change, there did not appear to be much concern about losing Randle.

Edwards can take his game to another level. Because of Minnesota’s injuries, there may be value at 10-to-1 odds. If the team continues to struggle but remains in the top six, that number could slide, potentially moving below Denver at 12-to-1.

The Lakers have also started well, and their fans are excited enough to compare Walker Kessler to Wilt Chamberlain. Even so, the West still appears to be a two-team race. Minnesota’s outlook should become clearer when Edwards returns.

As for the Rockets, it is difficult to get behind them. Despite previously being a strong supporter of Ime Udoka, there are concerns that Houston lacks toughness when it matters, outside of Thompson.

The Lakers remain another team worth watching after their strong start and the growing excitement around their current lineup.