NBA Playoffs Betting News
NBA Playoffs Odds and Betting
Few events bring greater excitement to basketball fans than the high-stakes, drama-filled, best-of-seven postseason tournament: the NBA playoffs. Adding to their enthusiasm is the ability to bet on odds for the NBA playoff title. Every year, new and experienced bettors jump into NBA playoff betting, and carry that anticipation through to the NBA Finals in June—when the league’s top two teams battle it out for the championship trophy.
Biggest Rivalries in the NBA
Every sport has their share of notable rivalries. When certain teams come face-to-face, the emotion heats up and the competition is fierce—and professional basketball is no exception.
Their dominance in the 1990s sparked a number of rivalries between the Chicago Bulls and other NBA teams, including the New York Knicks and the Detroit Pistons. After the Pistons won back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990, Michael Jordan and the Bulls went on to win the next three championships in a row, finishing out the decade with a staggering six championships.
The most famous NBA rivalry, however, goes to the two oldest teams in professional basketball—the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics. The cross-country rivals are tied with the most championship wins (17) in league history. The 1980s saw the rivalry intensify, as Magic Johnson of the Lakers and Larry Bird of the Celtics clashed repeatedly in the finals.
In recent history, the playoffs have been dominated by the Golden State Warriors, victors of six championships in eight years; four of the titles came after besting the LeBron James-led Cleveland Cavaliers.
Types of NBA Playoffs Bets
The NBA playoffs offer opportunities to place numerous bets, with a variety of betting formats, allowing bettors to decide how they want to put down their money.
Learn more about popular ways for betting on the NBA, reading odds, and other tips on how to bet on basketball.
NBA Offseason FAQs
When are the NBA playoffs?
The playoffs begin on April 15, 2023 with a 16-team, best-of-seven format. Game 1 of the NBA finals is set for June 1, 2023.
Who is favored to win the 2022-2023 NBA Finals?
This can fluctuate, based on game outcomes throughout the season. The favored team at the beginning of the season might not even make it into the NBA finals. At the start of the 2022-23 season, and at the time of writing, the Boston Celtics have the best odds to win the NBA championship.
Who won the 2021-2022 NBA Finals?
The Golden State Warriors beat Boston Celtics in Game 6, winning the series 4-2.
Who won MVP in the 2021-22 NBA Finals?
Golden State’s Steph Curry won the Bill Russell Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. He won the selection by unanimous vote, averaging 31 points, six rebounds, and five assists in the finals.