The countdown to the 2025 NBA Cup is on, and online sportsbooks have already set the tone for the tournament.
According to the latest NBA odds from BetOnline, the Oklahoma City Thunder are poised as the team to beat in the 2025 NBA Cup. Oddsmakers also project them to face the New York Knicks in the championship game. With high stakes and single-elimination drama, this year’s Cup promises intense matchups from start to finish.
For bettors and fans alike, the Thunder’s 7/2 (+350) line reflects both their dominant start and roster depth. The Knicks, priced at 6/1, are not far behind, signaling confidence in their gritty, playoff-style basketball. The potential clash between these two franchises would pit speed and offensive creativity against discipline and defensive toughness.
The rest of the field features no shortage of challengers, making NBA picks more intriguing than ever. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Houston Rockets, and former champion Denver Nuggets round out the top five contenders.
With a mix of young stars, veteran leaders, and experienced playoff performers, the 2025 NBA Cup could deliver one of the most competitive brackets in the tournament’s history.
Top Five Contenders – 2025 NBA Cup
1. Oklahoma City Thunder (7/2, +350)
The defending NBA champions enter the Cup as betting favorites. Their young, fast-paced roster thrives on ball movement and defensive intensity. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, they now face their first major test to see if they can continue their winning ways on another big stage.
2. New York Knicks (6/1)
The Knicks have built a gritty, disciplined squad under Tom Thibodeau. Jalen Brunson’s leadership and Karl Anthony-Towns’ resurgence provide stability. Their defense-first mentality could carry them deep into the tournament.
3. Cleveland Cavaliers (7/1)
Cleveland’s balanced attack, featuring Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, makes them dangerous. When healthy, the Cavs showcase strong interior defense and perimeter shooting for a well-rounded threat in single-elimination games.
4. Houston Rockets (10/1)
The new-look Rockets will have their work cut out for them. Kevin Durant is the team’s elder yet highly efficient shooting statesman. His experience and leadership will be put to the test, with the Rockets’ young core coming off an impressive playoffs run last year.
5. Denver Nuggets (12/1)
The former NBA champions bring valuable championship experience into the Cup. With Nikola Jokić orchestrating the offense, Denver remains a tough out. Health will be key to their success.
2025 NBA Cup Futures – Remaining Teams
Here’s the rest of the teams’ chances during the 2025 NBA Cup futures, according to the latest BetOnline betting lines:
| Team | Odds |
| Orlando Magic | 12/1 |
| Minnesota Timberwolves | 16/1 |
| Atlanta Hawks | 18/1 |
| Los Angeles Lakers | 18/1 |
| Los Angeles Clippers | 20/1 |
| Detroit Pistons | 22/1 |
| Golden State Warriors | 22/1 |
| Philadelphia 76ers | 22/1 |
| Boston Celtics | 25/1 |
| Milwaukee Bucks | 28/1 |
| San Antonio Spurs | 45/1 |
| Indiana Pacers | 50/1 |
| Memphis Grizzlies | 60/1 |
| Dallas Mavericks | 66/1 |
| Miami Heat | 66/1 |
| Toronto Raptors | 80/1 |
| Chicago Bulls | 100/1 |
| Sacramento Kings | 100/1 |
| Phoenix Suns | 125/1 |
| Charlotte Hornets | 150/1 |
| New Orleans Pelicans | 175/1 |
| Washington Wizards | 250/1 |
| Portland Trail Blazers | 300/1 |
| Brooklyn Nets | 400/1 |
| Utah Jazz | 500/1 |
Dark Horse Watch
The Dark Horse Watch section spotlights underrated teams with the talent, momentum, and NBA odds to surprise bettors in the 2025 NBA Cup.
Orlando Magic (12/1)
The Magic’s young core, led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, has shown flashes of elite play. Their length and defensive versatility could disrupt higher seeds.
Minnesota Timberwolves (16/1)
With Anthony Edwards emerging as a superstar, the Timberwolves have both the scoring punch and defensive grit to pull off a deep Cup run.
Golden State Warriors (22/1)
Despite aging stars, the Warriors’ championship pedigree and Stephen Curry’s shooting make them dangerous. If they get hot, they can beat anyone in a one-game scenario.
With heavy favorites and unpredictable dark horses, the NBA Cup offers endless possibilities for bettors. Tracking NBA picks and shifting NBA odds will be key as the action unfolds.
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