Major Trade Before Game 7
In a surprising turn of events just before the pivotal Game 7 of the NBA Finals, the league was abuzz with the news of a major trade involving superstar Kevin Durant. The forward was acquired by the Houston Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the coveted 10th overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft, and an additional five second-round draft picks.
Impact on Betting Odds
This shake-up not only altered team dynamics but also led to a significant shift in betting odds, propelling the Rockets from the 12-1 zone to approximately +750 for the 2025-26 NBA championship—a notable jump that places them as the second favorites behind the Oklahoma City Thunder, who maintain an edge with +230 odds.
Expert Opinions on the Trade
Jeff Sherman, vice president of risk management at the Westgate Las Vegas SuperBook, expressed optimism regarding the trade for Phoenix, highlighting the value of the assets acquired, particularly Green and the draft pick. “It’s a beneficial deal for Phoenix, positioning them positively for the future,” Sherman remarked in a text to Yahoo Sports.
Following the development, Arizona’s odds were adjusted to +900, while the Knicks and Pacers followed closely at +900 and +950, respectively. The Cleveland Cavaliers were also in the mix with odds sitting at 11-1.
Evaluating Houston’s Needs
Thomas Gable, sportsbook director for The Borgata in Atlantic City, commented on Houston’s need for offensive power during playoff scenarios, noting, “This addition fills a crucial gap that the Rockets struggled with, particularly in half-court settings last season.”
While Durant enters his 18th year in the league, Gable assured fans that his ability to score remains intact, albeit with a shift in style as he ages. This experience could be invaluable for the younger Rockets roster, even if Durant’s presence is temporary.
Future Implications
Despite acknowledging the transaction’s potential benefits, Sherman and other analysts suggested that the Rockets, despite currently holding the second spot in the Western Conference power rankings, could see fluctuations in these rankings with other potential trades on the horizon. Jeff Benson, who oversees sportsbook operations at Circa Sports, also downplayed the severity of the changes in Houston’s championship odds, stating they were adjusted downward just slightly.
He noted, “The Rockets certainly upgraded without sacrificing too many key young talents.”
This revised +750 odds mark the best position Houston has enjoyed since the 2019 season when they were at +700, reflecting a promising outlook with their new acquisition.
