2025 NBA betting report indicates that the Los Angeles Lakers’ liability has only grown since the acquisition of Luka Dončić. The presence of LeBron James already made the Lakers a sought-after choice for championship futures, but adding Dončić has amplified public interest significantly.
The recent trade not only brought in a superstar but also energized the team’s performance over the past several weeks, creating a buzz among bettors eager to place their wagers.
“Before the Dončić trade, the Lakers were already our biggest liability. Since then, that liability has only increased,” noted David Lieberman, head of NBA trading at Caesars Sports.
As the regular season approaches its conclusion in five weeks, Lieberman shares insights into the Lakers’ championship odds and betting trends.
From Pretender to Contender
The distinction between taking championship bets and being a championship-caliber team is crucial. At the season’s start, the Lakers found themselves with +2500 odds for the NBA Finals, trailing behind the frontrunners.
Things took a downturn before showing signs of life, with Caesars pushing Los Angeles’ odds to +4000 at one point.
“They certainly weren’t appearing to be a title contender,” Lieberman remarked.
However, everything changed with the blockbuster trade on February 1, which sent Anthony Davis to Dallas in exchange for Dončić.
“Immediately, we adjusted their odds to +1600. We anticipated an influx of bets, so we aimed to get ahead of the action,” Lieberman explained, emphasizing the Lakers’ appeal not just in Las Vegas but across the nation. “In Nevada, we attract many California bettors, and the Lakers are a favorite team nationwide.”
Well-Timed Hot Streak
Even before Dončić joined the roster, the Lakers were showing positive momentum.
Los Angeles boasted a 9-1 record leading up to Dončić’s February 10 debut, culminating in a decisive 132-113 victory against the Utah Jazz. With a record of 9-2 since Dončić’s arrival, including an impressive eight-game win streak, the Lakers have achieved an 18-3 record over their last 21 games.
In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, L.A. secured a 113-109 overtime victory against the New York Knicks. With LeBron and Luka leading the charge during this remarkable run, bettors are increasingly inclined to place their bets on the Lakers.
“This scenario is enticing for those looking to bet on the Lakers for the title,” Lieberman stated. “Having two of the NBA’s biggest stars on the Lakers makes the situation even more appealing to bettors.”
Currently, Caesars lists the Lakers as the +900 fourth choice in NBA Finals odds, following the Boston Celtics (+190), Oklahoma City Thunder (+205), and Cleveland Cavaliers (+550).
The Lakers’ shorter odds have not deterred bettors in the slightest.
“The betting action remains strong and consistent. Bettors are enthusiastic about the Lakers, regardless of the odds,” Lieberman remarked.
Wrestling With The West
On January 19, the Lakers faced a setback against their city rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers, losing 116-102. This left them with a modest 22-18 record, which did not reflect a legitimate championship contender.
Fast forward to March 7, and the Lakers have turned things around to stand at 40-21, currently holding the second-best record in the Western Conference, just behind the red-hot Thunder (51-11).
So, is Los Angeles now a championship-caliber team?
Lieberman believes they are, but first, the Lakers must navigate through a challenging Western Conference. The Oklahoma City Thunder have been outstanding all season, while the Denver Nuggets remain a formidable opponent, and the Golden State Warriors, bolstered by their recent acquisition of Jimmy Butler, are gaining momentum in the NBA Finals odds.
“I think it’s a realistic goal for L.A. to win the West. Luka has previously defeated the Thunder with a solid but not exceptional Dallas team. Now, with LeBron James by his side, Luka could have another opportunity to face the Thunder,” Lieberman stated.
The Thunder are the -175 favorites to win the West, while the Lakers sit as the +375 second choice, followed by the Nuggets and Warriors at +650.
Lieberman concluded, “The question remains: Can the Lakers overcome the challenges of the Western Conference?”
Tricky Title
If the Lakers successfully navigate the Western Conference, they may find themselves facing off against the defending champion Celtics.
However, the Cleveland Cavaliers could also be the Eastern Conference representatives in the NBA Finals. As of March 6, the Cavaliers boast an impressive 52-10 record, the best in the league.
“If the Cavaliers emerge from the East, it could open up opportunities for the Lakers. The Cavaliers may not be as formidable as a fully healthy Boston team,” Lieberman pointed out.
Regardless of the challenges ahead, one certainty remains: Los Angeles will continue to attract significant betting interest for the NBA championship.
