NBA Bettors Love Lakers & Sixers Championship Futures Odds

Despite a rising number in positive coronavirus cases and players opting out, the NBA is moving forward with its plan to restart the 2020 season in a “bubble” in Orlando. The eight-game regular-season schedule will help determine playoff matchups in both conferences, but NBA betting fans are already looking ahead towards bigger and better things.

Per DraftKings Sportsbook, the betting splits on NBA championship futures shows that the public is jumping on LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. The interest in the Lakers was there a few weeks ago, but it’s only increasing as we near the July 30 restart date.

NBA Championship Betting Splits

The Portland Trailblazers (+15000) saw plenty of early action, but the interest has waned in recent weeks. In all likelihood, a small number bettors put down big money bets on Portland early, but the general public has stayed away. On June 11, the Blazers accounted for 13% of all handle, but only 3% of total bets placed.

On the flip side, bettors are going in on the Lakers early and often. It makes sense right? In this year’s unprecedented playoffs, bettors are leaning on who they know they can rely on. LeBron James is a safe bet to make a deep run into the playoffs.

In terms of total bets, the Lakers account for more than double the next team—the Philadelphia 76ers. With that said, the Sixers are still seeing plenty of action. Philly accounts for 18% of the total handle since June 3. Obviously, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks are the heavy favorites in the Eastern Conference, but if any team has the size and physicality to slow down Giannis, it’s probably the Sixers. Not to mention, the potential windfall from the Sixers (+2800) winning a title compared to the Bucks (+250), is hard to pass up.

We’re still a month away from NBA games taking place. Keep an eye out on these trends as the NBA’s 2020 restart approaches.

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