The Boston Celtics have solidified their place in NBA history by clinching their record 18th NBA Championship, surpassing the Los Angeles Lakers for the most titles by any franchise. The Celtics defeated the Dallas Mavericks in a decisive 4-1 series in the 2024 NBA Finals, showcasing their dominance throughout the season and playoffs. This impressive performance has positioned the Celtics as the clear favorites to repeat in the 2024-25 season, with odds of +300 at sportsbooks and online casino for real money
Following the Celtics in the odds rankings are the Denver Nuggets at +750, reflecting their continued strength despite falling short in the 2024 playoffs. The Minnesota Timberwolves and Dallas Mavericks are close behind at +850 and +900, respectively, with both teams showing significant potential for growth. Rounding out the top five are the Milwaukee Bucks at +1000, maintaining their status as perennial contenders in the Eastern Conference.
These odds underscore the competitive landscape of the NBA, with several teams positioned as strong challengers to the Celtics’ reign as they look to defend their title in the upcoming season.
Boston Celtics (+300)
The Boston Celtics are the frontrunners to win the 2024-25 NBA Championship. Their recent triumph over the Dallas Mavericks in the 2024 NBA Finals, where they won in five games, has cemented their status as the team to beat. The Celtics’ core remains intact for the upcoming season, including Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford. This continuity, combined with their impressive 15-2 playoff record, makes them a formidable contender.
Denver Nuggets (+750)
The Denver Nuggets, led by three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, are another 2024-25 NBA Championship contender. Despite falling short in the 2024 playoffs, the Nuggets are still considered one of the best teams in the Western Conference. With key players like Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon returning, the Nuggets are well-positioned to make another deep playoff run. Their odds stand at +750, reflecting their strong potential to challenge for the title.
Minnesota Timberwolves (+850)
The Minnesota Timberwolves have emerged as a strong contender with odds of +850. Their performance in the 2024 playoffs has raised expectations, and they are seen as a team on the rise. The Timberwolves are poised to make significant strides in the upcoming season with a young and talented roster. Their ability to compete at a high level in the Western Conference makes them a team to watch.
Dallas Mavericks (+900)
Despite losing to the Celtics in the 2024 NBA Finals, the Dallas Mavericks are considered one of the favorites for the 2024-25 season with odds of +900. Led by superstar Luka Doncic, the Mavericks have shown they can compete with the best. Their experience in the Finals and the potential for roster improvements through the draft and free agency could enhance their championship prospects.
Milwaukee Bucks (+1000)
The Milwaukee Bucks, with odds of +1000, round out the top five favorites. The Bucks have consistently been a strong team in the Eastern Conference, and with Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the way, they are always a threat. Their ability to make key additions during the offseason could further bolster their chances of winning another title.
Los Angeles Lakers
Despite their storied history and star power, the Los Angeles Lakers are long shots to win the 2024-25 NBA Championship with odds +4000. The Lakers’ odds have lengthened considerably following the Boston Celtics’ record-breaking 18th championship victory. According to Unibet’s sports betting site in Canada, the Lakers are now ranked 14th among contenders, contrasting their usual position as perennial favorites.
Several factors contribute to the Lakers’ long odds:
- Health Concerns: The team’s success heavily relies on the fitness of their star duo, LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Both players have faced injury issues in recent seasons, which has impacted the team’s performance.
- Aging Roster: While still performing at a high level, LeBron James is in the twilight of his career. His agent, Rich Paul, predicts he may play for only two to three more seasons.
- Roster Construction: The Lakers’ front office must build a competitive team around James and Davis while navigating salary cap constraints.
- Western Conference Competition: The Western Conference remains highly competitive, with teams like the Denver Nuggets (+800), Minnesota Timberwolves (+900), and Dallas Mavericks (+1000) boasting better odds.
Despite these challenges, the Lakers cannot be discounted entirely. Their odds of +4000 suggest that while they’re not favorites, they still can contend. The team’s ability to overcome these odds will depend on several factors:
- Offseason Moves: Strategic acquisitions during free agency and potential trades could significantly improve the team’s roster.
- Draft Success: While the Lakers typically trade away draft picks, any young talent they acquire could provide much-needed depth and energy.
- Health and Performance: The Lakers could exceed expectations if James and Davis stay healthy and perform at their peak.
- Coaching and Strategy: The team’s ability to adapt to the evolving NBA landscape and maximize their roster’s potential will be crucial. New coach J.J. Reddick will have his work cut out for him.
While the Lakers face an uphill battle, their history of overcoming adversity and the presence of elite talent means they cannot be completely ruled out. However, oddsmakers and analysts now view them as a long shot to claim their 18th NBA championship in the 2024-25 season.
2024 NBA Draft and Free Agency
The upcoming 2024 NBA Draft and the start of free agency could significantly impact the current odds for the 2024-25 NBA Championship. Teams can strengthen their rosters by adding young talent through the draft and acquiring critical players in free agency. For instance, the Boston Celtics could add depth to their bench, while the Denver Nuggets might seek to replace any departing players to maintain their competitive edge.
The draft could also see teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and Dallas Mavericks making strategic picks to complement their existing stars. Free agency will be crucial for teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, who may need to make significant moves to improve their odds. The dynamic nature of the NBA offseason means the current favorites could see their odds shift based on their moves in the coming months.
In conclusion, the Boston Celtics are the early favorites to win the 2024-25 NBA Championship, followed by the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, and Milwaukee Bucks. The Los Angeles Lakers also remain a team to watch. The upcoming NBA Draft and free agency period will be critical in shaping the final rosters and could influence the championship odds as teams prepare for the new season.