Sports

NBA Playoff Oddsmakers Favor a Repeat
By James Moreau | 18 Apr, 2026

A potential championship clash between the Spurs and the Celtics could yield massive betting upside and a historic family milestone.

With the NBA Playoffs tipping off the oddsmakers have made their choice clear: the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder are the team to beat.  Spearheaded by reigning MVP and this year’s frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the squad is primed to repeat with the betting line set at +135.  To an already stacked roster GM Sam Presti made a move at the trade deadline to acquire Jared McCain who had struggled in his return from injury.  Since the Filipino American joined the team, he’s been a key role player averaging 10.8 points per game and shooting an effective 41% from the three.

But Oklahoma City isn’t the only young powerhouse making noise – their budding rivals in San Antonio are right on their heels.  Sitting at +550 the Spurs have been centered around the 7’4” center Victor Wembanyama.  Wemby has come into his own and been complimented by teammates including rookie combo guard Dylan Harper.  This past month Harper averaged 13 points and 4 assists per game while shooting an impressive 59%.

Family bragging rights might even be on the line in a potential Finals matchup – Dylan’s brother, Ron Harper Jr., suits up for the Boston Celtics.  A Finals matchup between the two would be a historic milestone, making the brothers of Filipino descent the very first siblings to square off for a championship.  Predicting the matchup would yield higher upside at +980.  The powerhouse Celtics themselves sit as the third favorites to take home the Larry O’Brien trophy at +600.