NBA MVP Odds Update: Falling, Favorite & Longshot
The NBA season has been on a hot start. A lot has transpired in the few weeks of this long season thus far. We have seen a few surprises as well.
The Chicago Bulls look like an elite team. The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Clippers look lost. Then there are the individuals.
There is no bigger individual award than the MVP. The race is not even close to being finalized. However, it is fun to receive an early update on the award.
Falling Fast: Damian Lillard
Damian Lillard is a player that is always in the MVP discussion, but his teams are never good enough to warrant an actual case for him. However, the numbers still put his odds at a relatively good number.
Heading into the season was another example of that. Dame was at +1100 to win MVP. Those odds weren’t at top, but he was considered a longshot due to his play. However, his play has taken a drastic dip thus far.
He is currently averaging a career low of 19 points per game. His shooting has also been abysmal, as he is shooting 35% from the field and 23% from three.
His odds have plummeted to +2500 and they might go down even more. His play has been bad and the Portland Trail Blazers are 3-5. The future does not look bright for Dame and his squad.
The Favorite: Kevin Durant
Some oddsmakers might not have Kevin Durant as the favorite, but he most definitely should be. He is currently listed at +650, which is tied for second with Luka Doncic. That is ridiculous.
The Brooklyn Nets have not gotten off to the best start possible, especially a team of this caliber, but Durant has been on fire. He can probably get better, which is a scary thought.
Durant is averaging 28.3 points per game with 8.6 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. His field goal percentage is ridiculous at 59%. The Nets will get rolling soon.
When that happens, Durant will be the favorite. Put your money on him now because the odds might not get as good as this.
Longshot Chance: Jimmy Butler
The most impressive team so far this season has undoubtedly been the Miami Heat. The main reason for that has been the play of All-Star Jimmy Butler. This team is 6-1 and Butler has been sensational.
Butler is averaging 25 points per game with seven rebounds and 5.6 assists per game. He has been the catalyst for this team. His odds are at +4000 right now.
The Heat have a shot to be one of, if not, the best team in the league this regular season. Butler would be the best player on the best team. That would give him serious MVP consideration.
