2008-09 NBA Betting Preview– Hornets Add Posey, Look To Overcome Lakers

In a season were most people had written off the Hornets before the betting season even tipped off, New Orleans stunned the entire community. Morris Peterson, Tyson Chandler and Peja Stojakvoic formed a team led by a player who became the best point guard in the league after only three years of service.

It’s a well known fact that Chris Paul is perhaps the most difficult point man to cover in league history, but he’s also the type of player that makes everyone else on the floor that much better.

Falling just short of the Western Conference Finals last year might have frustrated the bandwagon riders of New Orleans, but that is a fear that can be squashed right now. Barring any significant injuries, the Hornets are one of two teams that can offer serious contention to the Lakers.

David West emerged as an All-Star, while Tyson Chandler became an alley-oop machine with Paul running the point. This team is certainly one of the most talented and balanced rosters in the league, and can run the floor on nearly anyone. Why else do you think they beat the spread more times than anyone else in the Western Conference? They finished at 50-31-1 ATS on the season and anyone who rode this betting beast throughout the year was certainly rewarded.

Adding James Posey may be enough to get this team over the hump. Look at what Posey did in both Miami and Boston as proof. To bet on the Hornets’ futures simply because of Posey’s presence is far from idiotic. In fact, it’s probably a reason you should lean towards their favorable payout odds.

The only glaring weakness on this roster is frontcourt depth. Tyson Chandler matured in to one of the best overall big men in the game last season, thanks to Paul. However he doesn’t have a huge amount of help. Their lack of size is a big reason to steer clear of them in our futures.

But when you have one of the best point guards in NBA history running your team, anything is possible.

NBA Season Record 2007-08: 50-31-1 ATS

Odds To Win Western Conference: +600

Odds To Win NBA Championship: +1000