Three Longshot Title Bets Heading into The Second Half of the Season

Oklahoma City Thunder +1900

The Thunder have been even better than expected this season. The team currently owns a 32-15 record, putting them just one game out first place in the West. OKC is third in the league in scoring (120.8 PPG) while ranking second in field goal percentage (50.2%) and point differential (7.8). The Thunder have been solid on defense too, ranking thirteenth in opponent scoring, second in steals (8.3 SPG), and first in blocks (6.4 BPG).

This team has looked the part of a Title contender, despite their youth. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (31.3 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 6.4 APG, 2.2 SPG) has been playing at an MVP level and is supported by a roster that also includes a favorite for Rookie of the Year, Chet Holmgren (16.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.6 BPG).

While the roster is filled with young players, many have been playing together over the last few seasons, and things now seem to be clicking.

New York Knicks +3300

Odds Courtesy of BetMGM Sportsbook

The Knicks currently sit in the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference with a 30-17 record thanks to an impressive seven-game win streak. While they have talented scorers, the Knicks defense is the reason we have them as one of our favorite longshot bets to win the title. New York is second in the league in opponent scoring (109.4 PPG) and rebounds (40.4 RPG), while ranking seventh in steals (6.8 SPG).

While the Knicks lack a superstar like Giannis, Embiid, or Tatum, Jalen Brunson (26.7 PPG, 6.5 APG, 42.14 3P%) has impressed as the team’s top scoring option. The team also acquired Raptors star OG Anunoby earlier this season, giving them a boost on offense and defense. He has been a perfect fit for a well-constructed Knicks roster.

New York got some good news recently when they learned Julius Randle’s dislocated shoulder was not as severe as they had feared. When he is healthy on the floor with Brunson and Anunoby, this Knicks are a very difficult team to beat.

Cleveland Cavaliers +6000

Odds Courtesy of BetRivers Sportsbook

After starting the season with a middling record of 18-15, the Cavs have shot up the standings by winning ten of their next 11 games. Their defense is once again elite, ranking third in the NBA in opponent scoring (109.8 PPG). However, this team is still struggling to score points (114.1 PPG). This was an issue that prevented them from being great last season, leading them to finish behind conference rivals like the Celtics, Bucks, and Sixers.

While their offense isn’t overwhelming, they do have one of the most impressive scorers in the league in Donovan Mitchell (27.7 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.8 SPG). He and Darius Garland (20.7 PPG, 5.9 APG, 1.6 SPG) are a dangerous offensive backcourt in the league. They will be getting a boost as center Evan Mobley (15.7 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 1.6 BPG) is set to return from injury this week.

This Cavs team has the firepower to score with any team in the league, which make them a very appealing bet at their current price.

Michael is an avid sports fan and a veteran bettor from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He learned the trade from his grandfather in Las Vegas as a kid. As an adult, Michael started picking games for a small sports betting site and has built it into a career. His experience allows him to provide tips and information to help other bettors improve their game. Michael cheers for all Wisconsin pro teams, the Arizona State Sun Devils (his alma mater), and the Ottawa Senators. He specializes in baseball betting but has extensive experience in football, basketball, and hockey. When he isn’t pouring over stats, he’s spending time with his two young children or hiking and enjoying the outdoors.