The Heat made the first big splash of the offseason Monday night, reportedly acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade that sent a package including Tyler Herro and three first-round picks to the Bucks.
Miami's move to go all-in for the Greek Freak improved its NBA title odds for next season, but it's still behind the Celtics and Knicks among Eastern Conference favorites.
The Heat went from +3300 to hoist the Larry O'Brien Trophy to +1800 on theScore Bet. They are now the fifth favorite in the league. However, the Celtics (+575), who reportedly made a push to trade for Antetokounmpo, and the reigning champion Knicks (+800) are still considered the top two teams in the East.
NBA championship odds
| Team | Odds |
|---|---|
| Thunder | +250 |
| Spurs | +250 |
| Celtics | +575 |
| Knicks | +800 |
| Heat | +1800 |
| Nuggets | +2200 |
| Pistons | +2800 |
| Lakers | +3000 |
| Cavaliers | +3300 |
| Timberwolves | +3300 |
| Pacers | +4000 |
| Rockets | +5000 |
| 76ers | +6000 |
| Hawks | +6600 |
| Warriors | +6600 |
Antetokounmpo's new team has finished between eighth and 10th in the East standings each of the last four seasons. The Heat made a run to the Finals in 2023 but lost to the Nuggets in five games and have yet to win a series since.
Inserting a two-time MVP into a lineup that features Bam Adebayo arguably gives Miami the best frontcourt in the NBA - one that should lead the Heat to a top seed. The Heat moved from +1300 to +650 to win the Eastern Conference, jumping the Pacers, Cavs, and Pistons.
Miami's backcourt is what's preventing the team from being a true title contender. The Heat currently have Davion Mitchell slated as their starting point guard, with pending free agent Norman Powell and Andrew Wiggins rounding out their potential starting lineup.
US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call (800)-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at 1-866-531-2600. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at www.connexontario.ca.
