About this episode
Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers talk NBA playoff betting for the firs round. The guys break down each series and give out predictions and best bets. In the “NBA Playoffs 1st Round Preview + Best Bets” podcast, Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers deliver a detailed analysis of six confirmed playoff matchups. Starting with Bucks vs. Pacers, they highlight Damian Lillard’s Game 1 absence and potential Game 3 return. Despite Indiana's strong finish and better trendline, both lean Milwaukee in six games, citing Giannis’ dominance, Halliburton’s road struggles, and playoff pedigree. Munaf mentions Doc Rivers’ questionable playoff history and the Bucks’ edge in rebounding and roster depth. Next, Knicks vs. Pistons shows New York as a clear -400 favorite. Mackenzie highlights Detroit’s weak half-court offense and inexperience. They agree Jalen Brunson is the best player in the series and pick Knicks in five, suggesting -2.5 games as a value bet. For Celtics vs. Magic, Boston is a -5000 favorite. Mackenzie acknowledges Orlando’s improvement to 17th in offense post-All-Star despite losing Jalen Suggs but criticizes their three-point shooting and sees Game 1 as a blowout. Munaf agrees, pointing to Boston’s depth and perimeter strength. They recommend a Magic team total under and predict a sweep or five-game series. Clippers vs. Nuggets is the tightest series, priced at -110 each. Mackenzie is hesitant to trust Kawhi Leonard’s health but notes the Clippers were strong late season. He values Denver’s playoff-tested core of Jokic, Murray, and Porter Jr., even with coaching changes. Munaf favors the Clippers in seven games, citing Ty Lue’s ability to adjust and Harden’s solid season. Both suggest betting the series after Game 1, with Denver favored by 2.5. In Lakers vs. Timberwolves, Munaf backs the Lakers based on star power and playoff history. Mackenzie points out their mediocre net rating and questions public overconfidence. He critiques Julius Randle’s poor playoff stats and remains skeptical of Minnesota’s secondary scoring. While Mackenzie sees potential in the Timberwolves, he passes on betting them now. Munaf lays the four points with the Lakers, expecting a statement in Game 1. In Rockets vs. Warriors, the hosts praise Houston’s growth but highlight their lack of playoff experience. Mackenzie notes Golden State’s poor half-court offense but trusts Curry and Green’s pedigree. Munaf calls it a development year for Houston and picks Warriors in six. They mention the low total for Game 1 and expect another under, given both teams’ tendencies. Mackenzie’s best bets are Knicks -7 and Trae Young under 26.5 points vs. Miami, based on historical defensive matchups. Munaf echoes the Knicks pick and supports Lakers -4, banking on home energy and playoff urgency. For Heat vs. Hawks, Munaf leans over on Miami’s team total, while Mackenzie prefers fading Trae Young. They note past eighth-seed play-in games are 6-1 to the under. For Mavericks vs. Grizzlies, Munaf leans under and highlights Dallas’ defense, while Mackenzie passes on a side but acknowledges Memphis’ volatility. Both hosts ground their takes in net rating, recent trends, EPM data, and postseason form. They avoid hyperbole, focusing on betting value, historical angles, and matchup dynamics, giving listeners a sharp and disciplined first-round betting guide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices