The NBA Finals MVP award is one of the most prestigious individual honors in basketball, rivaled only by the ultimate prize: a championship ring. This coveted trophy often serves as the crowning jewel that solidifies a player’s legacy in the annals of NBA history, fueling endless debates about who stands as the greatest of all time. For sports bettors, the Finals MVP presents a thrilling opportunity to put your basketball acumen to the test and potentially reap significant rewards.
As we head into the 2024-25 NBA season, let’s dive into a comprehensive breakdown of the top contenders, sleeper picks, and what the odds reveal about the upcoming competition. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a passionate fan, understanding these dynamics can elevate your experience and give you an edge in predicting the next Finals MVP.
The Favorites to Win Finals MVP
Predicting the NBA Finals MVP starts with understanding which teams are favored to win the NBA Championship 2024-25. Whether you’re following the latest NBA news or mapping out the next big bet on online sports platforms like FanDuel, keep an eye on these top contenders:
Boston Celtics (+175)
The Celtics enter the season as outright favorites to win it all, with Jayson Tatum leading their balanced roster. Tatum’s ability to take over games makes him the clear candidate for Finals MVP if Boston secures the title. Whether it’s smooth scoring or clutch defense, Tatum is poised for another standout season.
Oklahoma City Thunder (+200)
The Thunder have rapidly evolved from being in rebuild mode to their current status as contenders, thanks to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s meteoric rise. If OKC clinches the championship, Gilgeous-Alexander will likely be at the heart of their success. His dynamic scoring and versatility make him one of the surest MVP bets.
Denver Nuggets (+1300)
Reigning Finals MVP Nikola Jokić remains a top candidate. The Nuggets are a value pick at these odds; their superstar center is the engine of their offense and always puts up jaw-dropping stats. Back-to-back Finals MVP awards are not out of his reach.
Cleveland Cavaliers (+700)
Donovan Mitchell is the Cavs’ best weapon, and his consistent ability to dominate on offense keeps Cleveland in the mix.
If the young Cavs gel and make a finals run, Mitchell will undoubtedly lead the charge.
Golden State Warriors (+2600)
Never underestimate Steph Curry. The Warriors’ +2600 odds scream “long shot”, but Curry is always dangerous in the playoffs. If the Warriors defy expectations and make another championship push, Curry is your guy for Finals MVP—after all, we’ve seen that story before.
Sleepers Worth Considering
While betting on the favorites has its perks, the real excitement (and value) lies in identifying sleepers with potential. These picks might not dominate the NBA insights now, but they could surprise everyone come playoff time.
Milwaukee Bucks (+5000)
Giannis Antetokounmpo is a name to remember, even if the Bucks aren’t near the top of the odds board. Giannis is the type of player who can single-handedly lift his team to glory. At +5000, Milwaukee is a high-risk, high-reward bet.
Los Angeles Clippers (+6500)
With Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the Clippers have enough talent to surprise the league if they stay healthy. Leonard’s two-way game often peaks in the playoffs, making him a potential Finals MVP sleeper.
Minnesota Timberwolves (+13000)
Karl-Anthony Towns or Anthony Edwards? Either could carry the Timberwolves if they shock the world this season. Both are young and hungry, and the Timberwolves’ +13000 odds leave plenty of upside.
Phoenix Suns (+35000)
The Suns might be a reach, but Devin Booker and Kevin Durant are elite talents capable of flipping games when it matters most.
If they can pull together under playoff pressure, one of them could emerge as an unlikely Finals MVP winner.
Strategy Notes for Betting on Finals MVP
Before placing your bet, keep these tips in mind:
- Check Team Odds First: The team that wins the NBA Championship 2024-25 is almost guaranteed to produce the Finals MVP. Start by identifying which teams you think have the best chances of winning it all.
- Bank on Superstars: Look for the player expected to have the biggest influence on their team’s performance. Finals MVP voters typically reward high-scoring performances, clutch moments, or game-changing plays.
- Consider Versatility: Players who excel in multiple areas—scoring, defense, rebounding, and assists—are often more appealing candidates. Think outside of just points per game.
Seizing the Moment
As the 2024-25 NBA season progresses, the pursuit of the Finals MVP will remain a compelling storyline. Top contenders like Jayson Tatum and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, along with sleeper picks like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kawhi Leonard, each have a path to the award that’s closely tied to their team’s performance, but remember, betting on the Finals MVP involves considering both individual talent and team dynamics.
By staying informed about the latest odds and team developments, you can enhance your betting experience and make more informed decisions.
