Spurs Lead in Western Conference Odds Over OKC & Denver

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Spurs Lead Western Conference Picks as Nuggets and Jazz Draw Interest

Oklahoma City and San Antonio appear to have the two best rosters in a deep Western Conference, but the Spurs are the preferred pick. There are growing concerns about the Thunder’s roster construction as the organization tries to avoid the second apron while managing Chet’s future and its financial commitment to Cason Wallace.

San Antonio looks capable of taking another step after reaching the finals. A hungry Wemby, an improving Dylan Harper and the addition of Tobias Harris give the Spurs a strong foundation. Harris should provide veteran help on both ends of the court. This team could win 65 games and compete for a championship, although Shea and Oklahoma City will have their say as he pursues a third MVP.

Denver also offers appealing value. Nikola Jokic remains the best player in basketball, and DeMar DeRozan could be a massive addition. The Nuggets have struggled to generate offense during the minutes when Jokic is off the court. DeRozan can play 25 minutes as a sixth man, lead the second unit and provide another source of offense alongside Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon. That makes Denver attractive at 14-to-1 in the Western Conference.

Utah is another team worth watching. After years of tanking, the Jazz should be a fun team featuring Darren Peterson, Keante George, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Laurie Markinen. George looks like a superstar in the making, while Markinen remains an All-Star-level player. With Will Hardy as head coach, Utah could win 40 to 45 games and create some surprises in a gauntlet of a conference.