Phoenix Suns’ championship odds affected by recent news
It might be pure speculation at this stage, but the Boston Celtics’ link to Kevin Durant has had ramifications for the Phoenix Suns and other teams in the NBA championship market.
The connection emerged over the last week as reports outlined discussions between the Nets and Celtics. According to Shams Charania, Boston has offered All-Star forward Jaylen Brown, but that Brooklyn have countered by asking for Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart as well.
The Phoenix Suns’ championship odds have decreased over the last week, although they remain fifth favourite for the 2023 title.
WynnBet have set the Suns odds at +750, sitting below a quartet of teams in a tight-knit affair at the top of championship odds. News of Durant’s possible addition, and the insertion of Malcolm Brogdon and Danilo Gallinari, has catapulted the Celtics into favouritism at +400.
2022 NBA champions the Golden State Warriors sit second at +650, while another Pacific rival, the Los Angeles Clippers, are equal third. They sit alongside another familiar foe of the Suns, the Milwaukee Bucks, at +700.
WynnBet trader Kyle Shields outlined the well identified reason for the Suns slight fall in championship odds.
"“With Phoenix deciding to match the offer sheet from the Pacers it almost eliminates any chance they can trade for Durant. This saw them drop down the board, but not too far because they have essentially the same roster as last season”."
The Nets sit somewhat surprisingly on the sixth line of betting at +1000. Clearly bookmakers are of the belief, like many, that the Durant discussions will be exhaustive and that as a consequence, there remains a good chance he remains with the Nets in the short-term.
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The Los Angeles Lakers sit seventh favourite at +1200, with the Pacific division projecting to be a torrid tussle as both Los Angeles teams aim to bounce back after disappointing seasons.