UPDATE: The 2025-26 NBA season officially tips off on October 21 at 7:30 PM EDT, with the Oklahoma City Thunder raising their championship banner against the Houston Rockets, now boasting star Kevin Durant. As the league prepares for an exciting start, fans and bettors alike are eager to explore the betting angles on all 30 teams.
The Eastern Conference is gearing up for fierce competition, with the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers eyeing the crown. Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers will face challenges due to injuries impacting key players. Rookie sensation Cooper Flagg aims to make an immediate impact with the Thunder, while teams like the Toronto Raptors and Sacramento Kings seek to build on last season’s performance.
With each team offering unique betting opportunities, experts have shared their top picks. From player prop bets to team futures, insights from analysts André Snellings and Eric Moody reveal standout predictions.
For the Eastern Conference, look for Trae Young to continue his ascent. Experts predict he could average over 12 assists per game (+225) as he leads the league again, boosted by new teammates like Kristaps Porzingis. The Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown is also expected to shine, with odds of +225 for averaging over 28 points per game while filling the scoring void left by Jayson Tatum’s injury.
On the other end, the Brooklyn Nets are projected among the teams with the fewest wins this season, with odds of +180 for finishing last. The Nets are integrating five rookies and may struggle in the immediate future as they focus on rebuilding.
In the Western Conference, the spotlight is on Josh Giddey of the Chicago Bulls, who could average over 8 assists per game (+115) and be a contender for Most Improved Player at odds of 18-1. The Denver Nuggets are projected to exceed 46.5 regular season wins (-115), thanks to their revamped roster depth and key acquisitions.
With the NBA Championship in sight, the Oklahoma City Thunder are favored to repeat their success, boasting a strong core led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Experts note their championship odds at 15-1 following a record-setting season.
As teams finalize their rosters and strategies ahead of the season opener, fans should keep a close watch on injury reports and player performances. With every game impacting playoff positions, the urgency to place bets is at an all-time high.
Stay tuned for live updates as the season unfolds, and make sure to check ESPN BET for the latest odds. This year promises to be filled with thrilling moments and surprising outcomes, making it a must-watch for basketball enthusiasts and bettors alike.
