The initial line for the 2016 NBA season has been released as the Cleveland Cavaliers are favored to win the 2016 NBA title. This is in spite of the Cavaliers not willing the title last season.
The Cavaliers are 11-4 favorites from SBG’s sportsbook to win the title in the coming year. Naturally, there is always going to some attention given to LeBron James and his desire to win a title in his home town. However, concern over his relationship with coach Dave Blatt could end up clouding much of the offseason.
Other Big NBA Competitors
The Golden State Warriors have 4-1 gambling odds to repeat as NBA champions. The fact that the Warriors play in a much more challenging Western Conference could be a big part of why they aren’t the favorites to repeat.
In spite of missing the playoffs this past year, the Oklahoma City Thunder have 5-1 odds to win it all. Much of this will entail whether or not Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook can actually stay healthy. New coach Billy Donovan will be one to watch for this season.
The Los Angeles Clippers have 10-1 odds this season. While much can be said about Chris Paul and Blake Griffin’s skills, the Clippers are particularly putting in a great effort to move on into the future with a steady and supportive ownership that is moving far from its past failures.
The Chicago Bulls have 12-1 odds to win the title. The big questions for the Bulls will entail both Derrick Rose’s health and whether Fred Hoiberg will take the team in the next step as the Bulls’ new head coach.
Who’s At the Bottom?
The Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, Minnesota Timberwolves and Charlotte Hornets have 200-1 odds to win the title. This is the lowest line for anyone in the league. The Wolves have the top pick in the NBA Draft and will have plenty of options to choose from including Jahlil Okafor and Karl-Anthony Towns. For the Sixers, it is unclear if Joel Embiid will even play due to a serious foot injury.