NBA Championship Betting Trends: Celtics and Thunder Popular Picks
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
The race for the NBA Championship is heating up, and BetMGM NBA Insights provide a valuable snapshot into how the market is shaping up. With line movement, ticket percentages, handle data, and liabilities giving us a clearer picture, the Celtics, Thunder, and Cavaliers are emerging as strong contenders. These insights highlight shifting expectations, betting trends, and the teams making the biggest splash heading into the heart of the season.
From Boston’s ascension to favorites to the Thunder’s meteoric rise, bettors have much to consider. Let’s break down the latest betting data, trends, and championship odds to help you stay ahead of the game.
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Line Movement (Open to Now)
- Celtics +310 to +240
- Thunder +950 to +425
- Cavaliers +5000 to +1200
Line movement reveals significant shifts in perception as teams rise or fall in the championship race. The Boston Celtics have seen their odds improve from +310 to +240, solidifying their status as the favorites. Similarly, the Oklahoma City Thunder made a substantial jump from +950 to +425, showcasing their growth into legitimate contenders. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers, once long shots, have surged from +5000 to +1200, signaling increasing confidence in their ability to contend.
This line movement reflects changing dynamics in the league, with these three teams drawing increased attention from bettors and oddsmakers alike.
Highest Ticket%
- Celtics 17.8%
- Nuggets 9.3%
- Cavaliers 8.3%
The Celtics are leading the pack with 17.8% of tickets, demonstrating widespread confidence in their championship aspirations. Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets and Cleveland Cavaliers follow with 9.3% and 8.3%, respectively, showing balanced interest in reigning champions and up-and-coming threats.
The ticket percentages offer a glimpse into the public’s faith in both proven winners and teams looking to break through this season.
Highest Handle%
- Celtics 21.2%
- Thunder 12.1%
- Mavericks 11.1%
When it comes to the largest wagers, the Celtics dominate with 21.2% of the handle, reinforcing their position as the team to beat. The Thunder are also seeing increased action, capturing 12.1%, while the Dallas Mavericks come in third with 11.1%, showcasing faith in Luka Dončić and his supporting cast.
Handle data underscores the teams that bettors believe have the best shot to go the distance, backed by significant monetary investments.
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Biggest Liability
- Celtics
- Lakers
- Nuggets
The Celtics top the list as the biggest liability for sportsbooks, which aligns with their overwhelming ticket and handle percentages. The LA Lakers and Nuggets round out the top three, showing that marquee teams with star power continue to attract heavy action.
For sportsbooks, these liabilities indicate which teams could pose the most financial risk should they claim the championship.
