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Rising Stars and MVPs Shape Betting Landscape as NBA Reveals 2024–25 All-NBA Teams
The NBA has named its All-NBA and All-Defensive teams for the 2024–25 season, a reveal that’s already shifting odds in futures markets and sparking speculation on next season’s title chase.
First Team: MVPs Anchor the Favorites
Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP, headlines the All-NBA First Team after steering the Thunder to a league-best 68–14 record. He’s joined by Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks), Nikola Jokić (Nuggets), Jayson Tatum (Celtics), and Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers). All but Mitchell were unanimous selections.
For sportsbooks, these picks matter. Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise and the Thunder’s dominance have boosted OKC’s early 2025–26 title odds. Meanwhile, Jokic and Giannis remain popular MVP futures bets, especially as they continue to put up elite numbers deep into their careers.
Second Team: Veterans Keep Their Edge
Jalen Brunson, Stephen Curry, Anthony Edwards, LeBron James, and Evan Mobley round out the All-NBA Second Team. LeBron’s 21st selection—matching his seasons played—is more than a milestone; it keeps L.A. in the playoff futures conversation despite an aging roster.
Mobley’s inclusion, paired with his Defensive Player of the Year win, is giving Cleveland bettors reason for optimism, with the Cavs emerging as a strong dark horse pick in early Eastern Conference odds.
Third Team: Breakouts and Comebacks
The Third Team features first-timers like Cade Cunningham and Jalen Williams alongside returnees Tyrese Haliburton, James Harden, and Karl-Anthony Towns. OKC’s Williams, now honored for both his offensive and defensive impact, adds depth to a team that’s fast becoming a bettors’ favorite.
Cunningham’s selection also bumps the Pistons’ over/under win total conversations for next season—Detroit may not be playoff-bound yet, but his breakout year could shift some moneyline action.
All-Defensive Teams Highlight Undervalued Assets
Evan Mobley, Draymond Green, and upstart defenders like Dyson Daniels and Amen Thompson headlined the All-Defensive First Team, giving props to players often overlooked in prop bet markets. Defensive accolades don’t always grab headlines, but for sharp bettors, they’re gold—particularly when betting on steals, blocks, or matchup-specific props.
Second Team selections like Rudy Gobert, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Ivica Zubac also offer betting value, especially in player stat lines and DFS formats where defense makes the difference.
Betting Takeaway
As award-season buzz fades into offseason strategy, the ripple effect on sportsbooks is already underway. Futures odds, MVP races, and even individual prop markets are adjusting to the recognition these players just earned. For bettors, now’s the time to watch how line movement responds—especially around ascending stars like SGA, Mobley, and Jalen Williams.
These aren’t just accolades—they’re betting signals.
