Basketball betting expectations are over the top for the 2010-11 Miami Heat as training camp has begun and with it a brand new and exciting era for the franchise.
Realistic Expectations?
Miami has opened at Sbg global.com as an overwhelming and prohibitive favorite of +175 to win the NBA title this season. That price is as reflective of the mood of the general gambling public as the talent and skill that will hit the floor for the regular season opener at Boston on October 26. The question remains however if that price is too high despite a phenomenal roster makeover that made worldwide headlines.
Pressure Builds for King James
LeBron James arrives from Cleveland where he was the franchise and one of the top two players in the NBA along with Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers. James caught a lot of criticism for his ESPN production in prime time when he milked the situation for all it was worth before announcing his decision to cut ties with his hometown Cavaliers and take his ball and talents to South Florida.
Cleveland fans felt totally betrayed and burned James’ jersey in the streets and the owner was beside himself with rage and a sense of abandonment. James also was criticized for a lackluster effort in last year’s playoffs where Cleveland was again eliminated early.
Miami has welcomed and embraced King James with open arms but with that comes the highest of NBA basketball betting expectations and it remains to be seen of James is just a great player with great numbers or a Michael Jordan that can actually bring home championship banners and rings.
Wade Remains
Just as significant and important as the arrival of James was the Cavaliers ability to retain Dwyane Wade, who has been the perennial leader in scoring for Miami and the face of the franchise since arriving in 2003? Wade has averaged over 24 points per game since the 2004-05 seasons and was considered an essential element in James agreeing to come to Miami.
The Final Piece?
Chris Bosh arrives from Toronto to complete what Miami fans and handicappers hope will be a basketball betting trifecta. Bosh is the elite power forward that every team needs and Miami has lacked. Bosh averaged 10.8 rebounds along with 24 points per game to rank as an elite player in his own right.