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At this point, it is really surprising that the Los Angeles Clippers are making some winning strides in the season, especially after Paul George and Russell Westbrook departed and Kawhi Leonard being declared out indefinitely due to his injuries. However, it does seem that a new big three is starting to make more noise for the team now than ever. While it is still early in the season, it is safe to say that the Clippers were not expected to thrive like this. A lot of critics were already saying that their first round pick for the next draft is going to be quite tasty for the Oklahoma City Thunder considering that they have the swap rights to the Clippers’ pick. However, the new trio of James Harden, Ivica Zubac, and Norman Powell are thriving at this point in time, and it cannot be denied that the Clippers are quite the squad that was expected to tank all the way this season – but look out – they are coming for the big contenders so far! Addition by Subtraction Nearly a month before the NBA action began, it does seem that Norman Powell had a promising yet prophetic vision of his season with the Clippers after Paul George left the team, saying that this isn’t really much of a big loss than most people would expect, considering how it actually gives everyone a chance to thrive at this point. “I saw it as addition by subtraction," Normal Powell told reporters Monday morning. "More guys getting opportunities, including myself…” To be fair, Powell isn’t wrong about his claim. The forward is seeing his best season in his time with the Clippers, averaging 24.7 points and 2.7 rebounds on 51.9% shooting in the first three games of the season. There’s also Ivica Zubac, who’s seeing the best of his career so far, averaging 22.7 points, 14.0 rebounds, and 4.3 assists with 59.2% shooting. At this point, it is hard to argue that the Clippers are contending, and it does seem that the team is really poised for a big chance to prove its critics wrong. This just says a lot about how the team has vastly improved to open up the season with a new perspective in their games now more than ever. Harden Back to His Houston Version Powell and Zubac aren’t the only players who are thriving right now. We are seeing the return of a familiar picture of James Harden in the Los Angeles Clippers. The star guard is currently averaging 25.0 points, 11.7 assists, and 8.3 rebounds – which resembles his big game back in Houston. His stats have also reached bigger heights for the first time since the 2019-20 season. Harden is leading the league in assists, and he is also showing that he can come up with more impressive performances night in and night out. If you are not impressed, he just had a 16-assist outing in their second game of the season where they won against the Denver Nuggets. This season is starting to be the start of a new dawn for the Los Angeles Clippers, and if they can keep this up, then fans can certainly expect the team to come up with some impressive presence on the big stage now more than ever. Who knows, maybe they can conjure a promising playoff run this time and make it to the NBA Finals for the first time in history.

Despite having himself a blast this year by winning two majors and some other impressive tournaments, world no. 2 Carlos Alcaraz took a moment to acknowledge the massive leap that his fellow star Jannik Sinner has made this season, who ascended to the world no. 1 as of the time of writing and is likely to finish as the year-end no. 1. In three showdowns this season, Alcaraz has managed to beat Sinner in each. However, it is worth noting that Sinner has made the most of his chances for most of the campaign, and it cannot be denied that there are indeed a lot of talks as to how the Spanish star just merely fell behind the Italian world no. 1. But tennis is a game, and Alcaraz is quick to admit that his competitor has had the better year. It takes a lot of grit to admit that another player is better than you – at least for this season – and Alcaraz knows that he’s humble enough to give praise to some of the best players in the game who’s just had an elite-level performance in the 2024 Tour. A Better Year This year, Alcaraz boasts a 51-10 record, tallying four titles and earning $9,036,407 in prize money. So far, this has been a promising campaign for the 21-year-old, and one can say that there is indeed a lot to expect from Alcaraz as he continues to get better in the game. However, he is definitely quick to acknowledge that Sinner has had a better year. “For sure. I mean, it doesn't matter that I have beaten Jannik three times. Probably I didn't play good tennis in some tournaments. My percentage of wins this year is really, really high, but Jannik is another level this year,” Alcaraz said. “He has earned over 91 percent of wins this year. So just a few players have done this before.” For context, Sinner has improved to a 65-6 record this year to go along with seven titles, including $12,032,935 in prize money. On the other hand, Alcaraz has won 83.6% of his games in 2024, just a little bit behind Sinner’s 91.5% win rate. The two players have been consistently locked for the battle for the World no. 1, but it seems that Sinner is poised to take this round away. A Promise to Focus in Games Still, Alcaraz believes that there’s no reason for him to panic or be pressured in his games. After all, he’s still young, and he is keen to finish his season at a high note rather than bowing out of the game and taking an early rest to cap off the year. There’s still his games in the Rolex Paris Masters and the upcoming ATP Finals, where he’s expected to play in both. “I have important tournaments ahead, that I really want to go far in and play good tennis,” Alcaraz said. “The most important thing that I have to think is to understand the goals about the end of the year. I want to finish second in the ATP Rankings. That means that I have to play good tennis and be fresh mentally to do good results in the last tournaments.” At this point, there are still bigger expectations from Alcaraz in the coming years, and that means that he is definitely due for a climb to the top spot. For now, he is conceding the battle, but expect to see him back in the mix for next year’s battle.

The Australian gaming software and device provider Aristocrat Gaming has been granted the very first vendor permit and license in the UAE by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, the country's first-ever gaming agency. In a groundbreaking move for the gaming industry in the Middle East, Australian slot machine manufacturer Aristocrat Leisure Limited has obtained the first-ever 'Gaming Related Vendor License' from the United Arab Emirates' General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority. This landmark achievement positions Aristocrat as the first official supplier for gaming devices in UAE commercial casinos. The GCGRA, the UAE's inaugural gaming regulatory agency, granted the permit as part of the nation's steps to establish a regulated gaming market. With this license, Aristocrat can now legally distribute its gaming devices, including slot machines and other gaming content, to licensed venues in the UAE. According to a statement from Aristocrat, the license allows the company to provide "world-class gaming content, hardware, and services to cater to player interests and financial preferences" within the UAE. Expanding Aristocrat's global footprint As a top manufacturer, designer, and distributor of slot games, Aristocrat is already known for its expansive reach in key markets, including North America and Asia-Pacific, where its games enjoy a strong following among players. Although the company has not disclosed the financial terms of its license in the UAE, industry analysts suggest that the UAE's emerging gaming landscape could offer substantial growth potential. This expansion marks a rare opportunity for Aristocrat to pioneer in a new market, especially as growth opportunities become more limited in other established regions. The news of Aristocrat's entry into the UAE market closely follows the GCGRA's issuance of the UAE's first casino license to Wynn Resorts, which was granted just weeks before. Wynn Resorts is set to develop a $4 billion fully-integrated resort, Wynn Al Marjan Island, in collaboration with its local partner, RAK Hospitality. This casino hotel, slated to open by early 2027, is expected to enjoy an early advantage as the UAE's only gaming property, likely drawing both local and international clientele. Synergies between Aristocrat and Wynn Resorts While Aristocrat's statement regarding its vendor permit did not directly reference Wynn Resorts, the connection between the two companies is worth noting. Aristocrat already has a well-established relationship with Wynn as well as with MGM Resorts International, another gaming giant with stated intentions to pursue a casino license in the UAE. These existing partnerships could position Aristocrat favorably as more gaming venues are approved by the GCGRA. The development of Wynn Al Marjan is anticipated to spur additional growth in the UAE's gaming market, and this encourages other international operators and device manufacturers to seek licenses. For Aristocrat, this could mean significant expansion opportunities should additional casino licenses be granted. Wynn Al Marjan's casino floor, which is expected to occupy less than 5% of the property’s total space, will likely house various gaming options. UAE's gaming market: a potential multi-billion-dollar opportunity The UAE gaming market is projected to generate approximately $5 billion in gross gaming revenue per year, based on some analyst forecasts. If this projection holds and additional properties are approved, the UAE could become a highly lucrative market for gaming operators and suppliers. Although the UAE's anticipated GGR would still fall short of Macau or even Las Vegas, it could rival Singapore, making it an attractive market for device manufacturers like Aristocrat looking to expand into new regions. With a strong tourism infrastructure, high disposable income levels, and an appetite for luxury entertainment experiences, the UAE has the potential to attract a broad array of international visitors. Aristocrat's advanced slot machines and gaming content, known for engaging storylines and cutting-edge technology, could be well-suited to meet the demands of this market. As more gaming facilities potentially come online in the future, Aristocrat's early entrance provides it with a strategic advantage in establishing its presence and brand loyalty among UAE players.

Caesars Entertainment has just announced the uploading of one of its assets, the LINQ Promenade, for $275 million. This announcement was made amidst Caesars' efforts to reduce its debt, including the sale earlier this year of Caesars' WSOP intellectual property rights to the tune of $500 million to NSUS Group. Caesars Entertainment has announced the sale of the LINQ Promenade on the Strip to a joint venture between Acadia Realty Trust and TPG Real Estate for $275 million. The transaction, expected to finalize within the current quarter, marks another significant step in the gaming giant's ongoing efforts to reduce debt. Located adjacent to the LINQ Hotel (another property of Caesars), the LINQ Promenade is a popular retail and dining complex, housing iconic venues like I Love Sugar, O'Sheas Pub, Tilted Kilt Pub, and Virgil's Real BBQ. However, the LINQ Hotel itself is not included in the transaction. This sale allows Caesars to shed a non-core, non-gaming asset in alignment with its debt reduction strategy. Accelerating debt reduction goals "The sale of the LINQ Promenade represents an accretive, non-core asset sale that will accelerate our debt reduction goals," Caesars Chief Executive Officer Tom Reeg said in a recent statement. He expressed gratitude for the partnerships developed over the past decade with LINQ Promenade team members and tenants and wished them continued success in the transition. This is not the first divestment Caesars has made as part of its debt reduction plan. Last month, industry insiders anticipated this move, speculating that Caesars would likely sell the LINQ Promenade to enhance its capital base. The sale is in line with CEO Reeg’s earlier remarks about the company's willingness to offload non-core assets. Recent divestment strategy boosts debt-cutting initiative Caesars has made strides in selling off other valuable assets, particularly the sale of its World Series of Poker intellectual property rights. In August, the company announced the WSOP rights sale to the NSUS Group for $500 million. Caesars has already received an initial payment of $250 million, with the balance due over a five-year period. This transaction allows Caesars to retain the rights to host the flagship WSOP live tournaments in Las Vegas for the next 20 years. Additionally, NSUS granted Caesars a license to continue operating its WSOP Online poker business in key states, including New Jersey, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, ensuring continuity in its online poker operations. These recent asset sales are intended to bring in over $500 million in liquidity by the end of the year, reinforcing Caesars' debt reduction plan and supporting its financial stability in the face of liabilities. The sale of both LINQ Promenade and the WSOP intellectual property provides an essential financial cushion, aiding the company in its ongoing capital management. Debt reduction amid capital spending The proceeds from these sales come at a critical time for Caesars. Although the company has been proactive in reducing debt, it reported total outstanding liabilities of $12.69 billion by the third quarter's end, up slightly from $12.43 billion at 2023's end. This increase can largely be attributed to Caesars' recent capital expenditures. However, with the completion of its current capital spending cycle, the company expects the debt reduction to gain momentum. Caesars also reported $802 million in cash on-hand as well as $124 million in restricted cash in September. The influx of funds from the LINQ Promenade sale and WSOP transaction bolsters the company's liquidity and enables it to redirect resources toward core gaming operations and its debt-reduction initiative. Future outlook The sale to TPG Real Estate and Acadia Realty Trust places LINQ Promenade under new ownership that may seek to capitalize on the value of its retail and dining attractions. The transaction ensures that Caesars can maintain focus on core gaming and hospitality operations while maintaining a substantial stake in the Las Vegas entertainment landscape through its numerous casino resorts. With a debt load to tackle, the LINQ Promenade sale appears to be a timely and well-calculated move by Caesars. As the company anticipates the close of this transaction within the current quarter, it demonstrates a wider approach toward stabilizing finances and optimizing its real estate portfolio.

In a recent study done by the University of Massachusetts Amherst School of Public Health, it was concluded that casino gambling has had a beneficial effect on the state overall. The Social and Economic Impacts of Gambling in Massachusetts, or SEIGMA, released its report, entitled "Social and Economic Impacts of Casino Introduction in Massachusetts," and it stated that because of the casinos, the employment and economic activity in Massachusetts have improved, and so have the collection of tax revenues, which have benefited small towns and cities. A recent study concludes that Massachusetts' three casinos have brought overall economic benefits to the state, reinforcing the decision by lawmakers to allow gambling properties in the Commonwealth. The study, titled "Social and Economic Impacts of Casino Introduction in Massachusetts," was conducted by researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst's School of Public Health as part of the Social and Economic Impacts of Gambling in Massachusetts (SEIGMA) project. According to their findings, the casinos have generated substantial economic activity, increased employment, and provided vital tax revenue to benefit local communities across the state. Economic uplift and community investment Massachusetts' decision to authorize up to three casinos in 2011 has led to the development of Plainridge Park Casino, MGM Springfield, and Encore Boston Harbor, each bringing substantial investment to its respective region. The SEIGMA team found that these casinos have spurred billions of dollars in economic activity, mostly driven by construction and ongoing gaming operations. This uptick has been particularly notable in the communities surrounding the casinos, such as Everett, Springfield, and Plainville. Casino taxes on gross gaming revenue have funneled hundreds of millions of dollars into the state government, supporting towns, cities, and services across Massachusetts, the SEIGMA report notes. This influx of funds has been utilized for various public initiatives, helping improve municipal resources and enhancing the quality of life for Massachusetts residents. Researchers highlighted that a significant portion of the revenue generated by these casinos comes from Massachusetts residents who previously spent their money at out-of-state casinos in nearby Rhode Island and Connecticut. But by retaining this spending within state borders, Massachusetts has captured additional revenue that would have otherwise benefited neighboring states. Social impact and public safety In terms of social impact, the SEIGMA study addressed concerns that casino introductions might lead to higher crime rates or social disruptions. Contrary to some initial worries, the data indicates no significant rise in crime in the cities hosting casinos or the surrounding areas. In fact, property crime rates have even dropped since the casinos' opening, and instances of violent crime around Encore Boston Harbor in Everett and MGM Springfield have also declined. Population trends in these cities reflect an influx of residents, particularly in Everett and Plainville, since the casino openings. Springfield's population has remained steady, but the presence of MGM Springfield has contributed to urban revitalization, including a notable increase in multi-home sales and gentrification in previously underserved areas. In the residential real estate market, the presence of casinos has had varied effects. Encore Boston Harbor has contributed to a hot real estate market in Everett, leading to increased home values. MGM's entrance has boosted Springfield's multi-unit property sales, fueling urban renewal. Plainridge Park Casino, however, has had a more neutral impact on property values in its vicinity. Negative effects on vulnerable populations and local industries While the report identifies many benefits, it also outlines some adverse effects related to problem gambling and industry competition. Although the prevalence of problem gambling has not increased statewide, SEIGMA researchers found that much of the economic benefit has come from spending by individuals identified as at-risk or problem gamblers. For those who already exhibited high levels of gambling behavior, the proximity of casinos within Massachusetts provides more frequent opportunities to gamble. Researchers suggest that problem gambling rates did not surge post-casino openings, as vulnerable individuals already had access to casinos in Connecticut and Rhode Island prior to Massachusetts' legalization. Beyond gambling-specific concerns, the casino openings have had some adverse effects on nearby sectors, such as the food and beverage and hospitality industries, particularly in areas surrounding MGM Springfield and Plainridge Park Casino. These businesses have experienced competition for both customers and labor, as casinos employ large workforces. SEIGMA estimates that approximately 75% of casino employees transitioned from other full-time roles, intensifying the labor strain on smaller businesses in the vicinity. A balanced view of casino impact in Massachusetts Since 2015, SEIGMA researchers have published 55 interim reports on the effects of Massachusetts' casinos, and this latest study serves as a comprehensive overview of the casinos' impacts on the state. While the introduction of casinos has undeniably boosted economic activity, job creation, and tax revenue, it has also brought challenges for problem gamblers and heightened competition for local businesses. The findings demonstrate the dual nature of casino economics in Massachusetts. As the Commonwealth continues to monitor casino operations, balancing economic gains with social responsibility remains paramount to ensuring that gambling continues to yield a net positive for Massachusetts and its residents.

An anonymous French native has bet on Trump to win the election, and the bet is pretty substantial: a total of $45 million. The 'whale' made the bet through Polymarket, the offshore prediction platform. In a striking display of high-stakes speculation, an unidentified French bettor has wagered a massive $45 million on former US President Donald Trump's success in the upcoming presidential election. This high-roller has chosen Polymarket, the offshore prediction platform, where they have become the focus of industry intrigue due to the sheer scale of the bet, which represents a full 1% of the total $2.4 billion betted on the platform's presidential election market. The trader, who has carefully distributed their bets across four accounts - Theo4, Fredi9999, Michie, and Princess Caro - has captured attention not only for their confidence in Trump but also for the calculated nature of their bets. These stakes range from modest sums to substantial bets in the tens of thousands, with one account, Fredi9999, responsible for the largest position. This account alone has amassed a $13.8 million stake supporting Trump and wagering against Kamala Harris. Polymarket's response: No attempt at manipulation Polymarket has publicly stated that this mystery bettor is a seasoned investor with a background in financial services and "extensive trading experience." In a press release, the platform clarified that it believes the trader's heavy investment is purely a directional bet aligned with their personal views on the election outcome. Despite the enormous wager, Polymarket asserts this is not an attempt to manipulate the election market. However, questions remain about the potential impact of such an outsized position on market dynamics. Experts speculate that the spread-out nature of the bets - multiple smaller transactions rather than a singular large one - might be intended to prevent a significant price shift for Trump's odds, thereby allowing the bettor to lock in favorable returns if their prediction holds. The strategy suggests a calculated approach to maximize financial gains rather than merely influence public perception. Echoes of past market influences: a flashback to 2012 This incident recalls an earlier episode on the defunct trading platform Intrade during the 2012 election. In that case, an anonymous trader made substantial bets on Mitt Romney, equating to over one-third of all Romney-backed wagers and one-fifth of bets against then President Barack Obama. An analysis of this event, outlined in an academic paper published in 2015, indicated that the bet placement was designed to create a 'firewall' for Romney's prices, hindering fluctuation in response to real-time information. The authors of the paper ultimately concluded that this was an effort to manipulate public sentiment, boosting campaign morale, fundraising, and voter turnout for Romney. Concerns over such influence have led regulatory bodies, including the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission, to scrutinize prediction markets more closely. In recent court filings, the CFTC stated that election-related manipulation has occurred and may recur, referencing the Romney bets as a precedent. Although the CFTC has faced challenges in imposing restrictions, such as its unsuccessful bid to prevent the prediction platform Kalshi from listing election-based event contracts, it remains vigilant over potential election market manipulations. The growing Trump momentum The timing of this $45 million wager aligns with a recent surge in Trump's popularity on major prediction platforms, including Polymarket and Kalshi. As of last week, Trump's odds reached 66% on Polymarket and 62% on Kalshi, leading to speculation about whether larger financial influences are at play. Yet Kalshi's founder, Tarek Mansour, insists that the odds aren't merely driven by a few high-net-worth players. Instead, he notes that the median bet size for Harris stands higher at $85 compared to Trump's median bet size of $58, suggesting that while more individual users are backing Trump, they're doing so with smaller stakes. This trend hints at a broader shift in public opinion. Mansour pointed out that while Trump is accumulating a higher number of backers, Harris attracts larger individual stakes, which could signal a base of cautious optimism or risk-aversion among her supporters. Despite these differences, the former president's recent lead in prediction markets adds fuel to the debate over his electability in the 2024 race. Implications of high-stakes election betting The presence of a mystery 'whale' with a $45 million commitment to Trump's win demonstrates the continued appeal of prediction markets for seasoned traders seeking outsized profits. However, it also reignites ethical questions about the influence of major players in markets that traditionally reflect collective sentiment. As the election approaches, the CFTC and other regulatory bodies may need to reconsider oversight measures to address concerns over potential manipulation, especially in cases where individual actions could skew perception or drive public opinion.

While there aren’t high expectations for the Winnipeg Jets to begin this season, it seems that the team is shocking many fans and critics this year with their strong start. So far, the team has won four games at home, and four games on the road. At this point, one can say that the Jets are truly making a big stride in their games now more than ever. However, the Jets have now suffered a poor loss at the hands of the Toronto Maple Leafs after John Tavares drilled three goals while Anthony Stolarz saved 19 goals to hold off the cruising Jets. So far, the Jets have cooled off, and they didn’t really have much answer to the Maple Leafs right from the start. So far, this loss sets the Jets back by just a notch, but that defeat shows that Winnipeg isn’t invulnerable, which says a lot about their chances of winning this season as they seek to continue gunning for more wins and keep hold of the Western Conference’s top spot. A Promising Push to the Top The Western Conference is the most competitive side of the NHL, and there are a lot of teams to look out for one year after another. While repeat champions are common in the NHL, the West usually has a different contender coming out of the hole, and that says a lot about the high competitive performances that is expected from every team. The Jets, so far, have become an elite team to look out for so far, and it cannot be denied that the team is really starting to show that they have what it takes to prove that they are a contender team now more than ever. With the way the Jets are starting to build a promising reputation in the game, one can say that this is their chance to deliver a fantastic campaign to remember. The early returns may have been really too favorable for the Jets, but it does seem that it is a show of improvement as to how they have addressed their previous issues so far. If you are not impressed, the Jets have actually won 16 regular season games combined up to this moment, with the last eight dating back to the previous season. While this drop to the Maple Leafs is really disappointing, fans should look out for more of their big games in the next few weeks. One can say that this is just a proof of their need for improvement in the games as well. A Renewed Hope for Winnipeg Jets forward Mark Scheifele certainly understands that the team has gone on to build a much more confident approach in the season. However, the star also claims that this is not a time to be complacent and must find more ways to continue winning in their games and ensure that they are not letting up night in and night out. "We've found ways to get wins, but I think the biggest thing is to continue to work at things and continue to get better. It's still so early in the season,” said Scheifele. “There's a lot of games left and I think you can't let complacency set in because we've won a few in a row. We have to continue to push for more and continue to push for a more full effort throughout the game." The Jets were the ninth team in the history of the NHL to start the season with eight wins in a row. They are also the fourth Canadian team to pull off the same feat while it also tied the franchise record that the team has yet to allow more than three goals in a single game.

In eight weeks of action, it seems that Washington Commanders fans are clearly making impressive strides with the way Jayden Daniels has played well this season. As one of the biggest MVP candidates for this year, one can say that the rookie is really making sure that they have what it takes to come up with a big run towards the postseason after showcasing his ability in the clutch. That was seen when he fired up a long lob – a miraculous pass that proved to be pivotal in beating the Chicago Bears towards a promising 18-15 finish. So far, this game just shows how the Commanders have improved over the course of eight weeks – boasting a 6-2 record – and riding on Daniels’ impressive game. Of course, Noah Brown was on the receiving end to cap of the big finish, and it cannot be denied that the Commanders really needed that big finish to deliver one of the biggest performances and comebacks of the season. At this point, we are seeing the Commanders emerge as a hot pick to win in the Super Bowl next year. The Brown and Daniels Combo At this point, it is hard to argue that the Commanders are already embracing their new status as an elite dog in the NFL this season. Eight weeks into the game, it does seem that Washington is making the most of its chances so far, and the rise of the Daniels and Brown combo is starting to be quite the show. Daniels played well despite being limited to just one practice session in the previous week due to an injury. He was even doubtful to play this game against the Bears, and it cannot be denied that Caleb Williams, the 1st overall pick by the Bears, didn’t miss out much of the action in a showdown against his co-rookie. In the end, it was Brown who really pulled off the trigger – finishing strong with the receiving end and wrapping up what proved to be a pivotal finish to turn the comeback by the team. "Man, we're blessed to have (No.) 5 leading this team," Brown said of Daniels. "The things he can do are special, even that last play, keeping his composure and fighting like hell to get the ball off, and threw a hell of a ball. I wouldn't want to play with any other quarterback, I'm glad to have him." The Winning Play Washington was already leading by 12-7 before the Bears managed to score a one-yard touchdown to take a 15-12 lead with just 25 seconds left on the clock. This prompted Jayden Daniels to call out a play, and he was even expected to make some big strides as the one to score it, holding the ball for 12.79 seconds before coming up with a Hail Mary pass. Hail Mary – as in 52 yards that proved to be a long distance to cover in just a short span of time. It is the first touchdown pass to be ever thrown with a time to throw over 10 seconds. That was a massive winning play for the Commanders, and how can anyone imagine that he would be able to finish that with a massive blast? So far, the Commanders are getting a reprieve in Week 9 heading into their clash with the New York Giants – who have lost four of its last five games, including two in a row. The Commanders have already secured a 21-18 win in their first meeting this season, and they are definitely expected to pull off a big win in this coming showdown as well.

New research from the Lancet Public Health Commission states that the easier access to gambling games today may pose a threat to public health. In the report, Time for a Public Health Response to Gambling, the conclusion is that since gambling is expanding around the world, it could lead to significant problems, not just to a person's health but also to a person's relationships as well as finances. The rise of global gambling is on a scale never seen before, pushing society toward an impending public health crisis unless governments take immediate action, warns new research from a team of health experts. A recent study by the Lancet Public Health Commission on Gambling reveals that the continued expansion of gambling worldwide, fueled by increasing legalization and the migration to online platforms, threatens not only individual well-being but also financial and social stability. The Lancet's report, called "Time for a Public Health Response to Gambling," delivers a call to action, highlighting the wide-reaching impact of global gaming, including online forms that have made gambling accessible around the clock to anyone with a smartphone. Report findings on gambling as a public health issue The Lancet Public Health Commission on Gambling, composed of 22 doctors and PhD experts in public policy and health, investigated the societal impact of gambling. The researchers argue that the rapid growth of gambling across different countries, including new states and nations legalizing casino gaming, creates far-reaching harms affecting a person's mental and physical health, relationships, and finances. The commission contends that policymakers have long neglected gambling-related harms, focusing instead on individual responsibility rather than acknowledging the industry's role. With gambling revenues expected to reach almost $700 billion annually by 2028 and around 80% of countries permitting some form of gambling, the Lancet team urges governments to shift their approach. Governments are conflicted, the report states, as they often gain tax revenue from a profitable industry while neglecting to consider the consequences on public health. Gambling's migration to online platforms One of the report's central concerns is the ease with which people can gamble online. "Traditional gambling products, such as lotteries and bingo, now have faster cycles and are accessible via smartphone apps," states the commission. Games and platforms once considered relatively low-risk now resemble online casino environments, constantly available at users' fingertips. Heather Wardle, Co-Chair of the Commission and a gambling researcher at the University of Glasgow, highlighted the impact of advanced marketing techniques and technology. She states that anyone with a mobile phone now essentially has access to a casino 24 hours a day. Sophisticated marketing and technology make it easier to start and harder to stop, she adds. The report warns of the addictive nature of online gambling products, which are designed for rapid interaction and are more intense than traditional gambling forms. Slot machines, once confined to casinos, are now on screens everywhere, encouraging continuous engagement and often excessive spending. Recommendations for change The commission calls on policymakers to adopt a public health approach to gambling, similar to efforts seen with tobacco and alcohol. They advocate for stricter gambling regulations, emphasizing the need to limit exposure by reducing or prohibiting gambling advertising. Additionally, the commission proposes universal support systems to aid those impacted by gambling-related harms, moving away from a system that places the responsibility on individuals to seek help. "Current policies keep the focus on individuals with gambling problems, effectively diverting attention from the role of the commercial gambling ecosystem itself," the report asserts. By prioritizing responsible gambling programs that target individuals, the researchers argue, governments overlook the inherently addictive design of gambling products and the broader reach of online gambling. A call for government action The commission anticipates opposition from the gambling industry, which often cites the popularity of gambling as a harmless form of entertainment for most players. The industry will claim their products are enjoyed by millions without adverse effects, the report notes, but such assertions are misleading. The commission believes that governments should prioritize public health over industry profit, adopting regulations that safeguard citizens from the risks of gambling addiction. The American Gaming Association, in response, talked about various industry initiatives to promote responsible gambling. Joe Maloney, AGA's Senior VP of Strategic Communications, said, "The industry has made significant investments towards advancing responsible gaming initiatives and expanding consumer resources." The AGA affirmed its commitment to dialogue and adopting best practices that support safer gambling environments. The Lancet report concludes that government intervention is essential. "Governments have a duty to protect their citizens from harmful and addictive products and to adopt a public health response to gambling," the commission states, urging immediate action to mitigate the risks associated with the unchecked growth of global gambling.

The Sahara is all set to make a change on November 16 as it closes its poker room for the last time and will put slot machines in its place. The closing of its poker room makes the Sahara the 7th casino on the Vegas Strip to do so, following the likes of the Excalibur, Harrah's, Planet Hollywood, and the Flamingo. The Sahara Hotel and Casino will close the doors to its poker room for the last time on the 16th of November, replacing it with an expanded slot machine area, marking the latest chapter in Las Vegas's evolving gaming landscape. By mid-December, the casino will debut 'enhanced offerings,' including new slot banks featuring "the latest test games from top gaming content providers," according to a statement from Sahara's General Manager, Paul Hobson. This shift showcases the trend among casinos on the Vegas Strip prioritizing high-revenue-generating gaming options over poker, which has seen a gradual decline in casino support over the past decade. The closure of the Sahara poker room: a growing trend This closure will make the Sahara the seventh casino on the Strip to permanently shut down its poker tables in the last five years, joining a list of properties that have redirected space once dedicated to the game. The trend began in March of 2020 when Excalibur closed its poker room as the pandemic hit. While initially described as a temporary closure, Excalibur later repurposed the area for slot tournaments. Following suit, the Mirage and the Tropicana also closed their poker rooms around the same time without reopening them. In June of 2020, Harrah's converted its poker room into a nonsmoking slot area, eventually transforming it again into space for electronic table games. By mid-2021, Planet Hollywood and the Flamingo had also closed their poker rooms, allocating the spaces to slot machines, sports fan zones, and other gaming offerings. The trend away from poker is not unique to the Strip. Other Las Vegas casinos, including the Cannery, Binion's, Club Fortune, and Silver Sevens, have also closed their poker rooms in recent years. Even Green Valley Ranch transitioned its poker space into a sports viewing area, demonstrating a shift toward options that generate more revenue per square foot than poker. The financial perspective: slots over poker While poker continues to draw a dedicated following, it no longer enjoys the mainstream popularity it did twenty years ago. Still, the game remains active, with many rooms on the Strip reported to be half-full each night. In fact, the Sahara itself has continued to host four poker tournaments every day, suggesting steady interest. However, from a revenue standpoint, poker does not yield the same financial benefits for casinos as slot machines or table games. Poker, unlike most casino games, does not provide an inherent edge to the house. Casinos earn income through rake from tournament fees or a tiny percentage from each pot in cash games. However, this revenue model is less lucrative than the profits generated by slots or table games, which provide a higher revenue per square foot, a critical factor for Las Vegas casinos. Additionally, poker rooms tie up space and staff resources for extended periods, as players often engage in hours-long games, reducing opportunities for other patrons to gamble on the main floor. This drive to maximize profits is also reflected in many casinos' recent push to replace buffets with higher-margin food halls. Once a staple of the Las Vegas experience, the traditional buffet has been phased out across many properties. The logic is similar: buffets generate lower returns compared to upscale food halls, which offer curated dining experiences at a higher price point. Like poker rooms, buffets are seen as using prime casino real estate that could otherwise be allocated to more profitable ventures. As more casinos close their poker rooms, even venues that retain them have started moving these spaces away from the main gaming floor. Earlier this year, the Venetian transferred its poker room to a secluded spot on the Grand Canal Shoppes' second floor. What's next? Rumors of Caesars' poker room closing With Sahara's upcoming poker room closure, some industry insiders speculate that Caesars Palace could be next. Caesars Palace, which has maintained a poker room since it first opened in August of 1966, closed its room in August 2024 to expand its high-limit slot area but has yet to announce a reopening date. If Caesars ultimately decides to remove poker from its property, it would be the fourth property of Caesars Entertainment to do so in just five years, following the closures at Harrah's, Planet Hollywood, and the Flamingo.

The NBA’s opening week has been quite a blast, and there have been a lot of massive games and intense showdowns that have been fun to watch so far, making a lot of headways and showing room for some of the most promising showdowns so far. And that’s a big difference when you’ve got the Boston Celtics playing in front of their crowd as they seek to improve to 4-0 and come up with some impressive strides to continue their rapid run in the season. So far, a showdown with the Bucks is something to look out for, and it cannot be denied that this is quite a game to bet on for many fans. As of the time of writing, the Celtics are expected to win with odds of -1.5, with the over/under for the matchup set at 121.5 points. At this point, one can expect that the clash will be a blazing one to watch with stars like Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Damian Lillard coming in on the mix to headline the game. A Preview of Two Teams The Bucks haven’t really seen much success to begin the season after starting out 1-2. They recently suffered a heavy and disappointing loss to the Brooklyn Nets – yes, a rebuilding team. They allowed Cam Thomas to score 32 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists, while Dennis Schroder had 29 points and 6 assists. Sure, Giannis Antetokounmpo had an amazing statline of 22 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Damian Lillard had 21 points – but it was not enough to win. The Bucks shot 10 of 33 from deep, and they had a total of 18 turnovers in the whole game. That was a depressing look for a team that is expected to be a championship contender considering how stacked the team is to begin with. On the other hand, the Celtics have been riding on an impressive 3-0 start to the season, one of the only four teams to do so, along with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Boston recently survived an early upset in their games when they managed to pull off a comeback win against the Detroit Pistons, arguably the worst team in the league with a 124-118 win. By the Numbers In the last 10 games, the Celtics have managed to win a total of six, including three of the last five. The Bucks won the most recent matchup back on April 9th, but it is worth noting that it was already a game in the closing days of the 2023-24 season – with the Celtics and the Bucks being secured for the Playoffs at that time. So far, the Celtics have managed to drop an average of 126 points in three games. That includes 24.3 assists, 42.0 rebounds, 7.7 steals, and 4.0 blocks per game – being only better than the Oklahoma City Thunder’s statlines for the first three games by just a few numbers. On the other hand, the Bucks have an average of 116.0 points per game, but it is worth noting that the team has dropped its defensive rating to 23rd overall, and their 35.5% shooting from three isn’t actually the good insight that is expected from a team that has been deemed to be one of the most impressive contenders in the game, Make sure to look out for the fiery games of the NBA season and don’t miss out on the blazing action. Use the GambleSpot Parlay and Odds Calculator to find out your potential winnings in the games today!