2 min read • October 21, 2024
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At SICscore.com, we will once again provide extensive NBA injury coverage throughout the year, offering instant analysis, in-depth insights, and colorful visuals through our Court Views feature. Our commitment is to keep fans and bettors informed with the latest updates on player health. Below are a few free picks, with many more available at SIC Picks.
The Clippers are likely to struggle this season due to significant injuries and roster changes. Star forward Kawhi Leonard is expected to miss an indefinite amount of time to start the season, leaving a massive void in both scoring and defense. Compounding the problem is the departure of multi-time All-Star Paul George to the 76ers, leaving the Clippers without two of their core players who have been crucial to their success in recent years.
With Leonard sidelined and George gone, the Clippers will have to lean heavily on guard James Harden, who has his own injury history and is no longer in his prime. Depth is a major concern across all positions, making it difficult for the team to sustain competitiveness on both ends of the court. As a result, the once-potent three-headed offensive attack is now diminished, setting the stage for a likely drop in the standings this season.
The Chicago Bulls enter a rebuild year following the trade of star DeMar DeRozan to the Sacramento Kings. This shift places significant pressure on guards Zach LaVine and Lonzo Ball, who, combined, have played less than four full seasons due to injuries. The major concern is Ball, who hasn't played since January 14, 2022, and at SICscore.com, we worry he may not return to his pre-injury form.
The Bulls have added former OKC Thunder guard Josh Giddey and a few depth pieces, but the offense still looks limited, making scoring consistency a challenge. Given their lack of firepower and Ball's uncertain return, the Bulls are likely to struggle against stronger Eastern Conference squads. As a result, they are projected to fall short of their win totals this season.
The New York Knicks struggled with health issues toward the end of last season and playoffs, with several starters unable to finish the year. Notably, star guard Jalen Brunson suffered a fractured left hand in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals, leaving the team shorthanded. As a result, the Knicks made significant additions, bringing in Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns, who both averaged over 19 points per game last season and took a combined 30-plus shots per game.
Given the injury challenges from last season, it would be wise for the Knicks to manage the usage of their stars more carefully, particularly to preserve them for a deeper postseason run. With the team having the third-best odds to win the title, their focus will be on sustained success rather than individual scoring milestones. As such, betting the under on Bridges’ and Towns’ points props may be a sound strategy, anticipating reduced regular-season workloads.
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