The race for the NBA Championship is down to its final contenders. After a long regular season and an intense playoff battle, only three teams remain in contention for the Larry O'Brien Trophy. With the Western Conference Finals heading to a decisive Game 7 and the Eastern Conference champions already awaiting their opponent, the NBA futures market is reaching its most critical stage.
For bettors, analysts, and basketball fans, understanding the latest NBA championship odds and evaluating each team's path to the title is essential. In this guide, we break down the current NBA title odds, analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the remaining contenders, and provide our expert prediction for the 2025-26 NBA champion.
NBA Championship Odds 2025-26
The latest NBA futures odds from major sportsbooks such as BetMGM and FanDuel show three clear favorites to win the title.
Team | Championship Odds | Opening Odds (Summer 2025) | Current Status |
Oklahoma City Thunder | +125 | +240 | Tied 3-3 in Western Conference Finals |
New York Knicks | +210 | +900 | Qualified for NBA Finals |
San Antonio Spurs | +250 | +1800 | Tied 3-3 in Western Conference Finals |
Betting Insight: With the Cleveland Cavaliers eliminated after being swept by the Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals, the NBA championship race has officially become a three-team battle.
Oklahoma City Thunder (+125) – Championship Favorites
The Oklahoma City Thunder entered the season as defending NBA champions and have largely justified their status as the league's top team. After posting an impressive 64-20 regular-season record, OKC has remained one of the most dominant teams throughout the playoffs.
Why the Thunder Can Win the NBA Title
Best regular-season record in the NBA (64-20)
Swept both the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers in the first two playoff rounds
Led by MVP-caliber superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Elite defense anchored by Chet Holmgren
Despite dealing with injuries to key contributors, the Thunder have continued to find ways to win. Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged 31.1 points and 6.6 assists per game, while Holmgren has provided excellent interior defense and efficient scoring.
Biggest Concern
The Thunder have been pushed to their limits by the Spurs in the Western Conference Finals. A physically demanding seven-game series could leave them fatigued entering the NBA Finals.
New York Knicks (+210) – The Hottest Team in the NBA
No team enters the NBA Finals with more momentum than the New York Knicks. After overcoming an early challenge against the Atlanta Hawks, New York has won 11 consecutive playoff games and has looked nearly unstoppable.
Why the Knicks Can Win the NBA Championship
11-game playoff winning streak
Swept both the Philadelphia 76ers and Cleveland Cavaliers
Significant rest advantage before the NBA Finals
Elite defensive performances throughout the postseason
Jalen Brunson has emerged as the leader of a disciplined and confident Knicks squad. Under head coach Tom Thibodeau, New York has become one of the most efficient defensive teams in the league while maintaining strong offensive balance.
Biggest Concern
The Knicks struggled against Oklahoma City during the regular season, losing both meetings. If the Thunder advance, New York could face a difficult stylistic matchup.
San Antonio Spurs (+250) – The Dangerous Dark Horse
The San Antonio Spurs have exceeded expectations throughout the 2025-26 season. After opening with championship odds of +1800, they are now one win away from reaching the NBA Finals.
Why the Spurs Can Win the NBA Championship
Victor Wembanyama has developed into a legitimate superstar
Strong playoff performances against Portland and Minnesota
Proven ability to compete with Oklahoma City
One of the most balanced young rosters in the league
The Spurs have become one of the most heavily backed teams in the futures market. Wembanyama's unique combination of scoring, rim protection, and versatility makes San Antonio a dangerous opponent for any team.
Biggest Concern
Winning a Game 7 on the road against the defending champions is an enormous challenge. The hostile atmosphere in Oklahoma City could prove decisive.
Potential NBA Finals Matchups
New York Knicks vs Oklahoma City Thunder
Projected Series Odds: Thunder -265, Knicks +215
Oddsmakers favor Oklahoma City due to its regular-season dominance and overall roster depth. However, New York's extended rest period could help offset some of OKC's advantages early in the series.
New York Knicks vs San Antonio Spurs
Projected Series Odds: Spurs -225, Knicks +185
This matchup appears more favorable for New York. The Knicks defeated the Spurs during the NBA Cup Championship and also earned a convincing regular-season victory later in the year.
NBA 2025-26 Championship Prediction
At this stage of the season, situational advantages often become more important than overall talent. While Oklahoma City remains the most complete team on paper, the betting value and championship path currently favor the New York Knicks.
The Western Conference Finals has become an exhausting battle that will leave either Oklahoma City or San Antonio physically drained heading into the NBA Finals. Meanwhile, New York has enjoyed significant rest while building confidence through an 11-game playoff winning streak.
Jalen Brunson is playing some of the best basketball of his career, and the Knicks' defense has reached an elite level at the perfect time. Combined with attractive odds and favorable scheduling circumstances, New York offers the strongest value in the championship market.
Best NBA Championship Bet 2025-26
Prediction: New York Knicks to Win the NBA Championship (+210)
The Knicks enter the NBA Finals rested, confident, and battle-tested. With momentum firmly on their side and the Western Conference champion likely facing fatigue, New York has an excellent opportunity to capture its first NBA title in decades and lift the Larry O'Brien Trophy.
