Thunder remain NBA title betting favorite; Spurs, Celtics follow
Key Points:
- The Oklahoma City Thunder enter the NBA playoffs as favorites to repeat as champions with +110 odds, followed by the San Antonio Spurs (+500), Boston Celtics (+550), and Denver Nuggets (+900) as the main contenders according to DraftKings.
- Despite the Thunder's short odds limiting sportsbook liabilities, the Spurs and Celtics have become larger liabilities due to their long-shot status earlier in the season and subsequent strong performances, attracting significant betting action.
- The Spurs' breakout season, led by Victor Wembanyama, saw their odds drop from 65-1 to +500, making them the highest attractor of NBA Finals and Western Conference winner bets at major sportsbooks.
- The Celtics, initially given 60-1 odds due to injuries and roster changes, have emerged as favorites to win the Eastern Conference (+155) with Jayson Tatum's return, leading to heavy betting despite early long odds.
- Other teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Lakers have seen dramatic shifts in their odds and betting interest, with the Lakers facing significant liabilities at BetMGM despite a tumble to 150-1 odds after key injuries.