From a parity perspective, the Lakers' ascendance in the eyes of Vegas makes sense. The Western Conference's dynasty, the Warriors, just got dealt a number of huge setbacks, just as crucial financial decision deadlines loom. As rumors swirled that a trade for AD was nearing completion late last week, the Lakers slid down to 5-1 from 20-1. Now, with AD in the mix, Vegas is even more bullish on the Lakers, seemingly anticipating another superstar (Kemba Walker, maybe?) joining the fold in L.A.
However, the Lakers' sudden rise to title favorite is a head-snapping plot twist. Even with LeBron having a very good season, it wasn't enough to drag the Lakers into the Western Conference playoffs. Is Anthony Davis that much of a game-changer, or is the Western Conference diluted now that the Warriors won't have two of their four-star contributors? How will the Lakers' filling out of their gutted roster affect those odds?
These odds will fluctuate in the coming weeks, especially as Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving decide on their futures. If Kawhi comes back, the Raptors are sure to be favored—the fact that they're 10/1 reflects the fact that oddsmakers don't think he's staying. (For a hint on where the smart money thinks he's headed, take a gander at that L.A. Clippers futures bet—7/1).
So much is yet to shake out. 12/1 on Philly looks worth a spin, given that they only lost to the Raptors by one shot. This offseason just got way more interesting, but not for the reasons we thought.
