Betting the NBA in-season tournament: Bets to make on group winners, champion, MVP - ESPN

The NBA In-season tournament tips off Friday, Nov. 3 and the groundbreaking addition to the league calendar is sure to add a new element of intrigue during the early portion of the season.

Still curious how this tournament works? We've explained the format, schedule and groups, so make sure you visit that link for more details.

After breaking down the groups and evaluating the odds, I've listed the bets to make as you follow the games over the next month.

Note: Odds by ESPN BET.

West Group A (Grizzlies, Suns, Lakers, Jazz, Trail Blazers)
Pick: Los Angeles Lakers +200

This group looks like a two-horse race between the Lakers and the Suns. Right now, surprising to say, the Lakers are the healthier team. LeBron James is not slowing down and Anthony Davis is looking consistently dominant. I can see LeBron adding some value to these games for his legacy since this is the inaugural in-season tournament for the league. Regardless, outside of the Suns, there is not much competition in this group.

West Group B (Nuggets, Clippers, Pelicans, Mavericks, Rockets)
Pick: Denver Nuggets +180

The Nuggets continue to look like the most unbeatable team in basketball… when they care. So far, they haven't shot the ball particularly well or up to their standard of last season. I expect that early season rust to knock off. Nikola Jokic is still the best player in the game. It's too easy for him. The concern, though, is that this looks like deepest and best group in the tournament. The Clippers, Mavs, and Pelicans are legitimately good competition.

West Group C (Kings, Warriors, Timberwolves, Thunder, Spurs)
Pick: Golden State Warriors +195

The Warriors really do look like a different team without Jordan Poole. Draymond Green is eager to