Philadelphia 76ers 2022-23 Betting Guide

With an MVP player caliber player in his prime (Joel Embiid) and another former MVP (James Harden), Philly could make some noise this season. 

They are kind of under the radar right now but there is a lot to like. 

Philadelphia 76ers

2021-22 Record: 51-31
2021-22 ATS Record: 37-43-2
2021-22 O/U Record: 38-41-3

2021-22 Year in Review

I know I mentioned it above, but it cannot be overstated how much the Simmons Saga was a drag on the team until the situation got resolved. There were two positive outcomes though, the first was getting Harden, and the second was creating the opportunity for Tyrese Maxie, who proved he is an emerging player in the league.

Last season fell short in terms of overall goals thanks to a second-round playoff exit, but Joel Embiid was very close to winning the MVP and he did lead the league in scoring. They were also able to see what Harden means for this team in real games instead of having to go through the motions in training camp. Perhaps it was a building block. 

2022-23 Philadelphia 76ers Futures

Atlantic Division: +260
Eastern Conference: +700
NBA Title: +1600

Embiid is one of the most dominant players in the game. I am not a fan personally, but there is no denying his talent and the gravity he creates makes it easier for his teammates. With Harden around for a full season, he might be in line for his best year ever. Leading the league in scoring again is a definite possibility and maybe even an MVP award, provided he can play enough games.

The 76ers are trying to improve on the margins in the hopes of more playoff success, and I like both of their off-season pickups. PJ Tucker is an elite grit player. He might not post numbers but his presence means that Embiid does not have to do any dirty work. Also, guard De'Anthony Melton is a really good defender. He is technically a backup but I wouldn't be surprised to see him in closing lineups because Maxie and Harden are not good defenders. Philadelphia looks as good as any team in the Eastern Conference to win it all right now. 

Philadelphia 76ers - Bet To Consider

Joel Embiid To Win MVP +700

Earlier, I had Embiid in my MVP stack so I had to put that bet here too. One thing to consider is that Embiid is at the top of the odds table to lead the league in scoring, but that bet pays off at just +350. There is definitely a connection between the two but as he proved last year he could win the scoring title and still finish second, so they are not as tightly correlated as you think. In fact, he has finished second to Nikola Jokic in the last 2 seasons. In terms of true talent, it could happen again but as discussed in that previous piece there can be some fatigue with Jokic so the narrative leans in the favor of Embiid this season. That doesn't make him the favorite but it does make him a great value.

I think that Philly is primed for a breakthrough season, provided Embiid stays healthy. I think they are a strong play on all of their basic futures, division, conference, and even the NBA Finals.