Friday offers a busy night on the odds boards as the NBA, MLB, NHL and Boxing are all on tap in what should be the start of a busy weekend for bettors.
Let’s take a closer look and evaluate some of the betting odds and key matchups slated for this evening.
NBA: Cavaliers vs. Hawks
Cleveland owns a 1-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference finals and Atlanta will look to even things up tonight on their home floor as they prepare to battle at Philips Arena. Oddsmakers have priced the Hawks as a slim -1 point favorite, with the total set at exactly 196 points. The Cavs have won five of six straight up on the road and four of six against the spread. Atlanta, meanwhile, is just 5-10-1 ATS in its last 16 games overall, including 2-6 ATS in their last 8 played at home.
MLB: Cardinals vs. Royals
St. Louis and Kansas City headline the marquee matchup in MLB on Friday night as both teams sit in first place in their respective divisions. Oddsmakers have posted a money line of EVEN for both teams, with the total positioned at 7 runs (-120 on the OVER). The Cardinals (27-14) are the visitors in this one and while their road record isn’t as impressive as their 15-5 mark at home, they are still a few games above .500 at 12-9. The Royals, who are currently riding a three-game winning streak are 26-14 overall, which includes a 15-6 home record after winning five of their last six in Kansas City.
NHL: Rangers vs. Lightning
Tampa Bays hosts New York in Game 4 of the conference finals and will look to take a commanding 3-1 series lead on their home ice if they can come away with a win. The Rangers, however, are 13-4 in their last 17 games played on the road and should put forth a solid effort in an attempt to tie this series at two games apiece; but the Lightning have taken six of its last seven games against the Rangers.
Boxing: Heavyweight Fight
Manuel Charr is a heavy two-to-one favorite (-200) against his opponent Alex Leapai, who is being offered at +160 on the boxing betting board in this classic heavyweight bout that is set to take place in Luzhniki, Moscow, Russia. In 30 fights, Charr has notched 27 wins (16 by KO) and 3 losses. Leapai has had 39 fights, winning 30 (26 by KO), losing six and coming to a draw 3 times.
There is a lot of action to bet on tonight, but be selective and don’t get caught up in all the different varieties that are being offered. Instead, focus on what you think is your best chance to turn a profit and make your plays accordingly and enjoy a great night of betting.