Odds to Win Finals Favorites, Smart Pick, Long Shot

It’s December, which means it’s time for hoops handicappers to reassess NBA Finals’ odds. As one might expect, the Celtics, Bucks, Warriors, Suns, and Clippers are the top five choices to win rings next spring. Boston, Milwaukee, Golden State, Phoenix, and LAC opened the season the favorites. None of the teams have played so badly that they’ve fallen from their favorite status. Read about the overall chalk, the current smart play, and the best long shot NBA Championship Betting pick as we careen towards the New Year.

Updated 2023 NBA Championship Betting Odds for Week Eight

2023 NBA Finals

When: May – June, 2023
Where: TBD
TV/Streaming: ABC / ESPN+

Updated NBA Championship Odds

Boston Celtics +370
Milwaukee Bucks +480
Golden State Warriors +670
Phoenix Suns +740
L.A. Clippers +820
Denver Nuggets +1350
Brooklyn Nets +1475
Memphis Grizzlies +1875
Cleveland Cavaliers +1975
Philadelphia 76ers +2100
New Orleans Pelicans +2300
Dallas Mavericks +2400
Miami Heat +2600
Toronto Raptors +3500
Atlanta Hawks +4200
Los Angeles Lakers +4300
Portland Trail Blazers +6200
Minnesota Timberwolves +7500
Sacramento Kings +10000
Chicago Bulls +11000
Utah Jazz +16000
New York Knicks +18000
Washington Wizards +19000
Indiana Pacers +30000
Charlotte Hornets +40000
Oklahoma City Thunder +60000
Detroit Pistons +95000
Houston Rockets +95000
Orlando Magic +125000
San Antonio Spurs +125000

Favorite: Boston Celtics +370

Boston suspended Ime Udoka for inappropriate behavior with a co-worker before the season started. Udoka’s suspension has had zero affect on the C’s.

The Celtics are dominating. Heading into Boston’s Dec. 7 matchup versus Phoenix, the Celtics have a stunning 20-5 record. The C’s are 11-2 SU at home.

Boston’s incredible record is the reason they’re such big time favorites. But it’s a long season. So if you decide to grab the fair odds on Boston, know it could work against you after the all-star break when Eastern foes Milwaukee, Philadelphia, and Miami kick it up a notch.

Smart: Phoenix Suns +740

Phoenix bombed last season, but there’s a reason. The Suns were going through a tough time due to Robert Sarver’s ridiculousness. Sarver plans on selling the franchise.

With Sarver suspended for the season, and one-foot out the door, Phoenix’s players have breathed a sigh of relief. The Suns are deep and the starting five is as good as any in the league.

In addition, DeAndre Ayton, Devin Booker, and Chris Paul are happy. So if CP3 can rest his old legs a month or so before the playoffs start, the Suns should roll in the postseason.

Long Shot: New Orleans Pelicans +2300

As of Dec. 6, Phoenix boasts the Western Conference’s best record. But the Suns aren’t alone. New Orleans is also at 16-8.

Zion Williamson is dominating, which explains why the Pelicans have stuck with the Duke star. Williamson averages close to 24 points, over 7 boards, and dishes over 4 assists per game. He also shoots 59% from the field.

Brandon Ingram averages over 20 points per contest. CJ McCollum averages over 17. CJ also dishes 6 assists each time he steps onto the floor. Center Jonas Valanciunas averages close to a double-double with 13 points and 9 boards each game.

The N’Awlins Pels are for real. So if you want to back a young team with a massive chance to lift the NBA Finals’ trophy offering overlay odds, go for the Pelicans.