The division title betting markets are always one of the more intriguing NBA Futures opportunities and this year is no exception. Whilst teams like Golden State and Milwaukee have gotten off to huge leads, there are still some very competitive races going on. The battles between Denver and OKC in the Northwest, Houston and San Antonio in the Southwest and each of the top 4 teams in the Southeast will be interesting to monitor. Let’s take a look at each division market and provide our best bet in the process.
Pacific Division
The defending champs have all but locked up the Pacific division and currently sit at a very short $1.01. Despite being in 4th place, the Lakers are currently the second favourite at $51, whilst the Clippers and Kings can both be had at $151. At this point, it’s virtually impossible for the Dubs to lose the Pacific. If you want a tax-free 1% payout within 2 months, this is the bet for you.
Southwest Division
Houston are currently the firm favourites in the Southwest at a solid $1.20. They find themselves just one game ahead of a Spurs team that can currently be had at $4. Each of the Mavericks, Pelicans, and Grizzlies now appears to be firmly out of the playoffs. Whilst I think Houston should take the division, there is still some value on San Antonio at this price point.
Northwest Division
An excellent season from the Nuggets sees them at 39-18 and two games up in the Northwest. They currently find themselves at $1.75 for the title, with OKC the nearest challengers at $2.75. Despite stellar seasons from both Portland and Utah, they appear to be just too far away to claim this title. Given their phenomenal home form this season, I’ll have to roll with Denver at $1.75.
Central Division
Just like Golden State, the East leading Bucks are the runaway $1.02 favourites in the Central division. Currently leading the 2nd place Pacers by 5.5 games, it’s tough to see Milwaukee throwing this one away. Detroit is in the mix for a playoff spot but can’t make up the gap to claim the division title, whilst both Chicago and Cleveland will be competing for a top draft pick.
Atlantic Division
The Raptors are another side that enjoys a huge lead in their division race, currently sitting 5.5 games ahead and at a price point of $1.14. Boston and Philadelphia are equal second 5.5 games back and can each be had for the title at $7.50. With so little time left to play this season, I doubt either the Sixers or Celtics can overtake Toronto. Even at $1.14, I still see value in the Raptors.
Southeast Division
This is one of the more competitive divisions in the NBA, with none of the teams currently enjoying a winning record. Miami sits in 2nd place at 26-30 and currently finds themselves the $2.75 favourite. Just 1 game back in 3rd place, the excellent recent form of the Magic has them 2nd favourite at $3.20. Atlanta are definitely out of it but the Wizards still have an outside shot. I believe the best value lies on the division leading Hornets here, who are currently 3rd favourite at $3.25.