Updated LA Clippers NBA Finals odds after James Harden trade
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The Los Angeles Clippers’ odds to win the 2024 NBA Finals have shifted after they traded for disgruntled superstar James Harden.
Philadelphia finally granted Harden’s wish to be dealt to the Clippers after a long, public standoff. Seven players were involved in the swap, with Robert Covington, Marcus Morris and Nic Batum serving as the most significant names headed back to Philly.
The value of the Sixers’ return is concentrated among the draft capital received, which includes two future firsts and a 2029 pick swap.
Updated 2024 NBA Finals odds: Clippers moves to +1200, still trail rivals in Western Conference
The Clippers’ odds to win the 2024 NBA Finals (+1200 or better) still trail the heavy hitters in both conferences.
For example, the favorites to win this season’s NBA championship are the Boston Celtics (+370) and Milwaukee Bucks (+400). Los Angeles’ direct competitors in the West have significantly shorter odds as well, with the Denver Nuggets (+450) and Phoenix Suns (+550) heavily favored.
In fact, the Clippers are even with the Golden State Warriors (+700) to make it out of the Western Conference. Pacific Division bettors can find the Clippers priced shorter than the Warriors, but the Suns (+135) are naturally entrenched as favorites in that market.
The move certainly qualifies as a blockbuster. It’s going to take some time for the pieces to click and jell, but Harden’s addition to Kawhi Leonard and Paul George looks incredible on paper.
The good news is Harden has established himself as a top tier distributor to complement his ability as an unstoppable scorer. In theory, this will allow him to blend his game seamlessly alongside George and Leonard.
However, there are still important factors to consider before rushing to back the Clippers with a wager.
Chief among them is health. Each of Harden, George, and Leonard have track records that include significant injuries -- and poorly timed injuries for that matter.
Secondly, don’t neglect to consider some early or midseason chemistry flare ups if current starting point guard Russell Westbrook becomes disgruntled with a diminished role.
The Clippers’ NBA title odds are much more appealing today than yesterday, but it’s far too early to name them as title favorites.
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Craig Williams is a Charlotte-based content creator for Catena Media, who focuses on betting content and analysis. He draws from his professional experience that spans the gaming, fantasy, and sports business industries. Craig is an avid fan of basketball, baseball, football, and soccer, though don’t try to pin him down on a favorite — the No. 1 spot is rented, not owned.
