3 minute read
With the NBA Playoffs just around the corner we take a look at some of the best futures bets.
Bucks to win the East $2.50
Milwaukee has stiff competition in this market with the Boston Celtics set to make this a tight race. Currently one win ahead with two games in hand, Milwaukee should have done enough to begin to turn their attention to the playoffs. This preparation could become invaluable for the Bucks as they can begin to make sure their key players are rested and ready for the postseason. They'll know the value of this rest as well considering the mess they almost entered in 2021 when Giannis Antetokounmpo missed several postseason games with an injury. While Boston will definitely be sure to challenge for the East, even Philadelphia could easily make their way to the Finals. The Bucks superstar ability, well rounded squad and experience should be enough to carry them all the way.
Denver to win the West $3.75
The Western Conference poses a different threat to the East, while Denver maintains a strong lead on the following teams, the hype of a Kevin Durant Suns team was enough to catapult Phoenix into the favourites to win the conference. There is no doubt that this Suns team is now the most talented in the West but Denver should not be forgotten. Things have been clicking for the Nuggets this year with Nikola Jokic receiving strong support from Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. This team chemistry and set roles may give the Nuggets the advantage over the Suns who will look to quickly balance their new squad in time for the postseason.
Defensive Player of the Year Brook Lopez $2.63
Another market that may be a two-horse race, Brook Lopez and Jaren Jackson Jr look set to battle this out until the last game of the season. Both players are having remarkable seasons on the defensive side of the ball with teams that are both playing good defense. Jackson may have got the hot start on this award but some costly fouling recently has allowed Lopez to begin to creep his way back. Lopez has a huge benefit of course, playing alongside two defensive studs in Jrue Holiday and Giannis Antetokounmpo but the big man is the star of this show. The overall team defense will help Lopez though, as will his ability to stay on the floor and not cost his team by sitting on the bench.
