The Canada vs. France Men’s Olympics Basketball matchup will tip off at 12:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday. With France receiving 7.5 points as the underdog and the total sitting at 163.5, what’s the smart bet on Tuesday afternoon?
Canada vs. France Betting Odds
According to Fanduel Sportsbook, Canada is a 7.5-point favorite over France. Canada is also -340 on the moneyline, while France has odds of +260. As for the total, the number sits at 163.5.
Team Canada
Strengths:
- NBA Talent: Canada boasts a roster with several NBA players, bringing a high level of skill, experience, and athleticism.
- Youth and Energy: Many of the Canadian players are young and energetic, providing a dynamic style of play.
- Versatility: The team has versatile players who can contribute in multiple areas on the court, allowing for flexible lineups and strategies.
Key Players to Watch:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: A dynamic guard known for his scoring ability, playmaking, and clutch performances.
- RJ Barrett: A versatile forward who can score, defend, and facilitate, making him a key player on both ends of the floor.
- Kelly Olynyk: A veteran big man with a versatile skill set, including three-point shooting and playmaking from the post.
Team France
Strengths:
- Experience and Cohesion: France often fields a team with experienced players who have played together in multiple international tournaments.
- Defensive Prowess: The French team is known for its strong defensive play, with several players who excel in protecting the rim and guarding multiple positions.
- Balanced Roster: France has a balanced mix of size, skill, and athleticism, allowing them to compete against various styles of play.
Key Players to Watch:
- Rudy Gobert: A dominant defensive presence in the paint, Gobert’s shot-blocking and rebounding are crucial for France’s success.
- Evan Fournier: A skilled scorer and shooter, Fournier provides a significant offensive threat from the perimeter.
- Nando de Colo: An experienced guard who can score, facilitate, and lead the team with his veteran presence.
Key Matchups:
- Perimeter Play: The battle between Canada’s guards, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and France’s perimeter defenders, including Nando de Colo, will be pivotal.
- Interior Defense: Rudy Gobert’s impact in the paint against Canada’s big men, like Kelly Olynyk, will be a crucial factor in the game.
Strategies:
- Canada: Look for Canada to push the pace, utilizing their athleticism and young legs to create transition opportunities. They will also rely on their NBA talent to generate offense through isolation and pick-and-roll plays.
- France: France will likely focus on their defensive strengths, aiming to control the tempo and limit Canada’s fast-break opportunities. They will also look to exploit mismatches in the half-court, using their size and experience to their advantage.
Canada vs. France Prediction:
This matchup is expected to be highly competitive, with both teams possessing the talent to secure a victory. France’s experience and defensive capabilities give them a slight edge, but Canada’s youthful exuberance and NBA-caliber players make them a formidable opponent. The outcome may hinge on which team can better execute their game plan and handle the pressure of the Olympic stage. Expect a close game that could go down to the wire.
Canada vs. France Prediction: France +7.5