So here’s the question, do you believe the league itself could be the mastermind, doing this to beat the betting public? And if this is really happening but can’t be proven, what’s our approach as bettors to still make a profit from it?
I do not think that the league rigs the game to beat bettors, and gives the bookie a huge amount of winnings. I believe if ever the league fix the game, it is for the benefit of the league to earn more money. Like, for example, making a boxing fight a draw even though there is an evident winner, just to make a rematch or a trilogy. In a team match like soccer or basketball, a strategic plan of losing the leading team in a finals to extend the series and cater more revenue from the audience is also possible, but I really don't think that the league is working with the bookie to win some commision.
And if the league will resort to this route, they have very good reason to do so. Because if not, it is their reputation on the line. Once it is tarnished, would be hard to recover their image as they will be tagged as fixers. This is why if a league will do such act, they are also ready to accept the possible repercussions of their deed.
So for me, I would say, major leagues is a different story. I don't think they can resort to this cheating activity because they can already earn huge even without fixing the match. Unless, a very huge stake is on the line. And more than likely, we won't even know it.