NBA Picks & Parlay of the Weekend | February 16-18

Get ready for the excitement of the 2024 NBA All-Star Game with these top betting picks. As the East takes on the West in a showdown of conference supremacy, there are lucrative betting opportunities to explore. From predicting the spread to selecting the game's MVP, and even wagering on individual player performances, the All-Star Game offers a thrilling array of options for basketball enthusiasts and NBA bettors alike.

In this preview, we delve into three standout betting picks: the Western Conference to cover the spread, Luka Doncic to win MVP, and Kevin Durant to score over 21.5 points. Each pick is backed by analysis of player strengths, team dynamics, and historical performance trends, providing valuable insights for informed betting decisions.

Whether you're a seasoned bettor or new to NBA wagering, these picks offer a chance to add excitement and potential profit to your All-Star Game viewing experience. So, gear up for an action-packed showdown and get ready to place your bets on the biggest stars of the NBA as they take center stage in the 2024 All-Star Game.

Western Conference -2.5 | -112 at FanDuel

The NBA All-Star Game is not just a showcase of individual talent but also a test of conference supremacy. This year, the spread favors the Western Conference, and for good reason. While the Eastern Conference boasts formidable players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jayson Tatum, key absences due to injury, including Joel Embiid and Julius Randle, weaken their lineup. This puts additional pressure on players like Tyrese Haliburton and Bam Adebayo to step up.

On the other hand, the Western Conference features a star-studded lineup led by perennial All-Stars LeBron James and Kevin Durant, complemented by sharpshooters like Steph Curry and Devin Booker. The depth of talent across positions gives the Western Conference a significant advantage, especially with Nikola Jokic orchestrating plays and Luka Doncic's scoring prowess.

Moreover, the absence of first-time All-Stars in the Western Conference eliminates any potential rookie nerves, ensuring a more composed and experienced roster. This depth and experience tilt the scales further in favor of the Western Conference.

While the All-Star Game often features high-scoring affairs with little emphasis on defense, the disparity in talent between the two conferences could result in a lopsided outcome. Expect the Western Conference to exploit their offensive firepower and capitalize on defensive lapses from the Eastern Conference to cover the spread comfortably at FanDuel.

With the Western Conference's proven track record in All-Star competition and their stacked roster, betting on them to cover the spread presents a compelling opportunity for bettors seeking value and a high probability of success. Place your bet on the Western Conference to cover the spread and secure victory in the 2024 NBA All-Star Game.

Luka Doncic to win MVP | +1800 at FanDuel

With a standout season performance under his belt, Luka Doncic emerges as a prime contender for the coveted MVP title in the 2024 NBA All-Star Game. Dominating the league in scoring with an impressive average of 34.3 points per game and showcasing remarkable shooting efficiency, Doncic brings a formidable presence to the court. As he gears up for his fifth All-Star appearance, Doncic's experience and skill set him apart as a player to watch.

What makes Doncic a compelling MVP candidate is not just his individual brilliance but also his ability to elevate the performance of his team. Despite being surrounded by other All-Star talents like LeBron James and Kevin Durant, Doncic's leadership and scoring prowess make him a focal point of the Western Conference team's offense. With notable absences like Steph Curry and Devin Booker, the spotlight shines even brighter on Doncic to deliver a standout performance.

While the All-Star Game often features a balanced distribution of shots among star players, Doncic's role as a primary scorer sets him apart. His versatility on offense and knack for making clutch plays further enhance his chances of securing the MVP title. Betting on Luka Doncic to clinch the MVP award presents an enticing opportunity, given his exceptional form and potential impact on the game's outcome. With promising odds, Doncic stands as a compelling choice for bettors seeking a lucrative return on their investment in the All-Star Game festivities.

Kevin Durant Over 21.5 points | -122 at FanDuel

In the 2024 NBA All-Star Game, Kevin Durant's scoring output will be a focal point for bettors, particularly regarding whether he will exceed or fall short of the projected 21.5 points. As a perennial All-Star and one of the most prolific scorers in the league, Durant brings a wealth of experience and offensive firepower to the court.

However, factors such as the dynamic nature of the All-Star Game and the presence of other high-caliber scorers on both teams may influence Durant's scoring opportunities. While Durant is known for his ability to light up the scoreboard with his scoring versatility and precision shooting, he may also prioritize facilitating for his teammates and embracing a more balanced approach to the game.

Additionally, with the unpredictability of All-Star exhibitions and the emphasis on entertainment, Durant's playing time and shot selection could vary throughout the game. Bettors must consider Durant's history of All-Star performances, his role within the context of the star-studded lineup, and the potential for fluctuations in his scoring output.

Ultimately, whether Durant surpasses or falls short of the 21.5 point threshold will depend on various factors unfolding during the game. Betting on Durant's scoring performance offers an intriguing proposition, with the potential for substantial returns based on his ability to thrive in the fast-paced and electrifying atmosphere of the All-Star Game.