The reasoning behind drug legalization was to try to eliminate the criminal element of the drug trade. If people can get quality shyt legally, they won't have to deal with gangs.Yes it is because it's the same line of reasonning. Some people can 't also help themselves with crack or cocaine.
Outside of making a buck for corporations, there was no need to legalize sport betting. It did not make things better for society, it made them worse.
People who can't help themselves were already betting.