As the anticipation builds for the 2024-25 NBA season, fans and bettors alike are scouring the odds in search of value. From the title favorites to the longshot underdogs, every team offers intriguing futures bets that could pay off handsomely for savvy gamblers. Our expert handicappers have analyzed the betting landscape and identified the top three wagers to consider for all 30 franchises.
MVP Favorites and Dark Horses
The race for the league’s most prestigious individual award is always a focal point for futures betting. This year, Luka Doncic (+350) and Joel Embiid (+1800) are among the early favorites after dominant performances last season. But don’t sleep on rising stars like Anthony Edwards (+1000), who looks poised to take another leap and potentially join the MVP conversation.
Other contenders to keep an eye on include:
- Jayson Tatum (+525)
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (+1100)
- Nikola Jokic (+2500)
Season Win Totals: Over or Under?
Predicting a team’s regular season success is a popular futures betting option. The defending champion Boston Celtics have the highest projected win total at 56.5, but there’s value to be found throughout the league. The Dallas Mavericks (50.5), Cleveland Cavaliers (48.5), and New Orleans Pelicans (45.5) all have over/under lines that our experts believe are ripe for the picking.
On the flip side, a few teams may be overvalued by oddsmakers:
- Golden State Warriors (43.5)
- Los Angeles Clippers (37.5)
- Brooklyn Nets (18.5)
Defensive Player of the Year Candidates
While the spotlight often shines brightest on the offensive stars, savvy bettors know the value of elite defenders. Bam Adebayo (+1000) has been knocking on the door of the DPOY award for years and looks primed to finally break through. Rising shot-blocking phenom Chet Holmgren (+1500) is also an intriguing choice in just his second season.
Bam Adebayo has finished top-5 in the Defensive Player of the Year vote for five straight seasons. If the Heat can remain largely healthy, with Jaime Jacquez Jr. taking a step forward, Adebayo could finally win the award this season.
Andre Snellings, ESPN Fantasy Analyst
Rookie of the Year Sleepers
Unlike the last two seasons when Victor Wembanyama and Paolo Banchero were clear Rookie of the Year favorites, this year’s crop is wide open. That means there’s plenty of value to be found in the ROY futures market. Keep a close eye on Zach Edey (+600) in Memphis, Matas Buzelis (+1000) in Chicago, and Alex Sarr (+900) in Washington.
Longshot title odds to consider
While the Celtics (+290) are heavy favorites to defend their crown, bettors willing to take on more risk could find juicy payouts further down the odds board. The 76ers (+825) restocked their roster after a disappointing postseason and could ride Joel Embiid to their first title since 1983. The Miami Heat (+2200) and Dallas Mavericks (+3000) also stand out as live underdogs with the potential to get hot at the right time.
No matter which teams or players you fancy, there are countless ways to get in on the NBA futures action this season. Use these expert insights as a jumping-off point for your own handicapping and you just might find yourself cashing some hefty tickets come next spring. The only question is, are you ready to place your bets?
