NBA Championship Betting Odds

Betting on the outright winner of the NBA is possible all-year around

This pro-basketball futures betting market is constantly adjusted by bookmakers to account for trades, injuries, free agent signings, or other changes which affect each team’s chances of winning the coveted NBA Championship trophy.

As well as betting on a specific team to win the trophy – it’s also possible to bet in advance on what the exact teams match-up will be in the NBA Finals, which Conference, Division or state the winner will be from, as well as which team will win the NBA finals, and whether 2023/24 will see a First Time Winner!

The 2024 Finals: Celtics Vs Mavs

Luka Doncic is making his debut in the NBA Finals, while Kyrie Irving faces off against the Boston Celtics in a high-stakes rematch. The Dallas Mavericks, having decisively eliminated the Timberwolves, are competing for the Larry O’Brien Trophy for the first time since their 2011 championship win as notable underdogs.

Can they defy the odds once more? The betting lines favor Boston, opening around -220, with the series commencing on Thursday, June 6.

NBA Finals Betting

Betting on the NBA championships is a popular activity for NBA fans and gamblers alike.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to approach betting on the NBA championships:

Types of Bets

1. Moneyline Bets
   • This is a straight up bet on which team will win the NBA championship. The odds will reflect the probability of each team winning. For instance, a favorite might be listed at -150, meaning you need to bet $150 to win $100, while an underdog might be +200, meaning a $100 bet would win you $200. View moneyline betting guide.
2. Point Spread Bets
   • Point spreads are used to level the playing field between two teams. For example, if the Los Angeles Lakers are favored by 5.5 points, they need to win by 6 points or more for a bet on them to pay out. Conversely, if you bet on the underdog, they need to either win outright or lose by less than 6 points.
3. Over/Under Bets (Total Bets)
   • In these bets, you’re wagering on the total number of points scored by both teams combined. For example, if the over/under is set at 210.5 points, you can bet on whether the total score will be over or under that number.
4. Futures Bets
   • Futures bets are placed well in advance of the championship game. You can bet on which team will win the NBA championship at any point during the season. The earlier you place your bet, the higher the potential payout, as the odds can change as the season progresses.
5. Prop Bets
   • These are bets on specific events within the games, such as which player will be the Finals MVP, how many points a particular player will score, or even which team will score first in a game.

Strategies for Betting

1. Research and Analysis
   • Successful betting relies on thorough research. Look into team statistics, player performance, injuries, and head-to-head matchups. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each team can give you an edge.
2. Understand the Odds
   • Odds reflect the likelihood of an event occurring and the potential payout. It’s crucial to understand how odds work and how to calculate potential returns on your bets.
3. Follow the Market
   • The betting market can provide valuable insights. If a lot of money is being placed on a particular team, it might indicate a higher chance of that team winning. However, be wary of following the crowd blindly.
4. Manage Your Bankroll
   • Betting should be approached responsibly. Set a budget for how much you’re willing to wager and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses and bet within your means.
5. Consider Home Court Advantage
   • Home court advantage can play a significant role in the outcome of games, especially in the playoffs. Teams often perform better at home, so factor this into your betting decisions.

Popular Teams and Players to Watch

1. Teams
   • Historically successful teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Golden State Warriors often attract a lot of betting action due to their strong track records.
2. Players
   • Star players such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry can significantly impact the outcome of games. Keeping an eye on their performance and health is crucial for making informed bets.