Ahead of the postseason, we reveal which NBA teams have received the most bets to win the title, and which results would be the most costly here at Betway.
As the playoffs begin, the NBA betting patterns at Betway are starting to tell a fascinating story. While favourites naturally attract attention, some long shots are also commanding a surprising share of the overall stake — creating some intriguing scenarios.
Here’s a breakdown of the most‑backed teams in the NBA title market ahead of the playoffs, what the basketball odds say, and where the biggest risks may lie.
Los Angeles Lakers
Odds: +15000
Share of total stake: 14%
Despite sitting at triple‑digit odds and with two key players injured ahead of the NBA Playoffs, the Los Angeles Lakers are currently the single most‑backed team in the market to win the NBA title. Fourteen per cent of all stakes have been placed on a Lakers title win, highlighting the power of the franchise’s global brand and belief in a roster that features two of the NBA’s biggest stars in LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
The Lakers’ chances depend heavily on when Doncic and Austin Reaves will return from their injuries – if at all. Clearly there is belief from the public in JJ Redick’s team, and a shock title win for Los Angeles would represent one of the biggest losses for the Betway sportsbook.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Odds: +120 (favourites)
Share of total stake: 13%
The Oklahoma City Thunder are the clear market favourites to win the title, and the betting public is on board, with 13 per cent of the total stake.
OKC’s support is rooted in expectation. The reigning champions have been at the top of the Western Conference standings for the entire season, so there’s no surprise to see them attracting a high percentage of bets from NBA fans and bettors.
San Antonio Spurs
Odds: +450
Share of total stake: 12%
The Spurs are shaping up to be one of the most intriguing teams when it comes to NBA Playoff betting. They account for 12 per cent of the total stakes and are second favourites to win the title, making them one of the most realistic “bad results” for Betway.
A Spurs title would not only hit the outright market hard, but could also create a double impact. If San Antonio go all the way, Betway could also be exposed to a significant payout in the NBA Finals MVP market, with Victor Wembanyama attracting support to take home the individual honour.
Denver Nuggets
Odds: +900
Share of total stake: 9%
Denver continues to attract a steady number of bets. At 9/1, the Nuggets are firmly in contender territory and have drawn 9 per cent of all money wagered.
While not as damaging as some other scenarios, Denver lifting the trophy would still result in a meaningful payout, particularly given their consistent presence among shrewd bettors rather than casual long‑shot hunters.
Golden State Warriors
Odds: +5000
Share of total stake: 7%
Few teams illustrate the power of reputation quite like the Warriors. Despite astronomical odds of 500/1, Golden State has still attracted 7 per cent of the total stake.
Much like the Lakers, this is a nostalgia‑driven play based around the past playoff success of Steph Curry and Draymond Green. The duo have dragged the Warriors to titles in the past, which seems to live long in the collective memory of NBA bettors.
Where the Biggest Risks Lie
From a bookmaker’s perspective, the worst results would include title wins for any of the Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Lakers, Toronto Raptors, Golden State Warriors or Charlotte Hornets. While most of these teams sit at long odds, the combined weight of public money makes them dangerous.
That said, San Antonio remain the most realistic threat. As second favourites with heavy backing — and additional MVP exposure tied to Wembanyama — a Spurs championship could quickly become the costliest outcome of the entire postseason for Betway.
