Stoudamire, Pierce Start Shaping NBA Betting Odds For Next Season

LeBron James is the biggest piece to the puzzle when it comes to next season's team betting odds in the NBA. There are dozens of other pieces, however, that are just as important in determining who will be favored when the season starts.

Two of those players appear to be closing in on a decision on where they will play next year. Paul Pierce is close to a deal to stay in Boston, and Amare Stoudemire is preparing to sign a deal with the New York Knicks, ending his stay in Phoenix.

Stoudemire has been linked to many teams, most notably Miami, nut it is the Knicks that have shown the former Suns player that New York may be his best bet. Once Stoudemire is signed and delivered, New York will then turn their attention to putting the pieces around him to help compete for a title.

Pierce alerted Boston of his decision to become a free agent last week, but NBA insiders believed the two sides would work out the terms of an agreement to keep Pierce in green. That has apparently happened, and Pierce could sign the deal as early as tonight.

The Celtics will then turn their attention to re-signing Ray Allen. The sharp shooting guard is considered to be the Celtics top priority this off season outside of Pierce. Coach Doc Rivers has gone on record as saying it is essential to have Allen back to make another run at the NBA championship.

The big free agents are still on the market as of Friday evening. James will complete his courting on Saturday and Monday. Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh have been seen together in recent days, but both have been meeting with teams separately on Thursday and Friday.

July 2, 2010
Posted By Vincent Tapoglia III
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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