NBA 2024-25 Finals Odds
The NBA may have just wrapped up an exhilarating season, but for those obsessed with basketball, it’s never too early to start predicting next year’s champion. As we turn our focus to the 2024-25 season, the league’s landscape continues to shift with blockbuster trades, emerging talent, and superstar performances. When it comes to the odds of who will be holding the coveted Larry O’Brien Trophy, the stakes are high, as the usual powerhouse franchises gear up for yet another title run. The betting markets are already buzzing, so let’s break down the favorites to win the 2024-25 NBA Finals, teams that could surprise everyone, and the dark horses you might want to keep an eye on.
The Usual Suspects: Powerhouses Gunning For Glory
Denver Nuggets (+400): The reigning champions have proven their grit and dominance, thanks in no small part to the unstoppable duo of Nikola Joki? and Jamal Murray. Given how well the Nuggets gelled during their title run, it’s no wonder they’re sitting at the top of the odds board. A full offseason should allow their bench unit to further solidify, while the potential for internal player development underscores Denver as a top-tier contender. One big factor working in Denver’s favor? Continuity. With their core locked up and Michael Malone at the helm, expect the Nuggets to be pushing for another deep playoff runespecially as Joki? seems to play chess while everyone else is playing checkers on the hardwood. Milwaukee Bucks (+550): The Bucks have one major question mark heading into the 2024-25 seasonwill Giannis Antetokounmpo still be in Milwaukee by the time the season kicks off? There has been speculation regarding the “Greek Freak” potentially testing waters elsewhere. But if he stays put (and let’s be honest, many bettors are banking on it), Milwaukee stands as a formidable opponent yet again. Led by Giannis and Khris Middleton, plus a fresh injection of coaching under Adrian Griffin, the Bucks have all the tools to return to the NBA Finals. However, with other teams in the East quickly catching up, Milwaukee will need their supporting cast to improve drastically if they hope to go all the way. Boston Celtics (+600): Expectations remain sky-high for the Celtics after adding Kristaps Porzi??is to a squad anchored by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The duo’s playoff experience makes them constant postseason threats, but Boston will need to figure out how best to integrate Porzi??is into a lineup that has previously struggled with offensive consistency at times. Still, oddsmakers favor them near the top of the pack because when you have two All-NBA players with Championship-level hunger, the sky’s the limit. The key will be keeping everyone healthy and maintaining momentum that often fizzles too early.
The Contenders Worth Watching
Golden State Warriors (+1200): Any betting list related to the Finals is incomplete without mentioning the Golden State Warriors. A dynasty in its own right, the team’s trio of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green will forever carry that championship DNA. It may not be the Warriors of 2016, but you can never count them out. The real question for Golden State will be how their younger core develops and whether they can stay injury-free through another grueling season. While not the most favorable odds, the allure of the Warriors making a Cinderella return to the Finals is just too tempting to ignore. Los Angeles Lakers (+1400): Speaking of legends, don’t sleep on the Lakers. Yes, LeBron James is wrapping up a historic career, but as we’ve learned, his longevity knows no bounds. Anthony Davis, when healthy, is one of the most impactful two-way players in the league, and after a promising 2023-24 season, the Lakers front office seems determined to surround their stars with capable role players. But can LeBron defy father time once again? And can AD remain healthy? Those two questions have bettors slightly wary. That said, if everything goes according to plan, the Lakers could be a sneaky good pick to storm back to the mountaintop. Philadelphia 76ers (+1500): Another compelling wildcard is located in the “City of Brotherly Love”. The Sixers’ aspirations largely hinge on Joel Embiidthe reigning MVPwho will be desperate to prove he can lead Philly into the Finals after several playoff disappointments. But, the unresolved James Harden situation lingers large, and how the team handles that saga could shift their entire season trajectory. If Philadelphia can figure out its backcourt alongside Tyrese Maxey, prepare for Embiid’s dominance to once again make them a Finals contender.
Dark Horses Not To Overlook
When it comes to futures bets, everyone loves a good underdog story. Here’s a look at some dark horse teams who could surprise the world. Cleveland Cavaliers (+2500): After a remarkable regular-season turnaround in 2023, the Cavaliers have the youthful pieces to keep growing. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland form an electrifying backcourt, while Evan Mobley continues developing into one of the best defensive big men in basketball. While they’re not one of the immediate favorites, Cleveland’s exciting young roster should raise some eyebrows once they hit their stride. Dallas Mavericks (+1800): The Mavericks will go as far as Luka Don?i? and newly re-signed Kyrie Irving can take them. If the pairing can find better chemistry than they did upon their initial linking in 2023, Dallas could easily transform into a nightmare matchup for any opponent. Luka remains one of the most dangerous players in the league, and his ability to take over games leaves the Mavericks with tantalizing Finals upside.
Final Thoughts
Predicting the 2024-25 NBA Finals champion is an art form, blending insight, luck, and a touch of basketball sorcery. Sure, we can heap praise on perennial powerhouses like the Denver Nuggets or the Milwaukee Bucksbut in the NBA, anything can happen when teams catch fire at the right moment. As fans and bettors place their chips on favorites and hopefuls alike, keep in mind that early-season odds are fluid. Injuries, trades, and sudden midseason breakthroughs (or collapses) will alter the path to the championship. Until then, let the anticipation and debate begin. Who’s your favorite to win it all in 2025? Though it feels far away now, we all know it will be here before we know it. And one thing is for sure; we’re in for another thrilling, unpredictable ride.
