This season, the Bucks seem to be entering into the all-star break as clear, on-odds favourites. This is no surprise as they have shown the most excellent form in both divisions. The L.A Lakers are likely to face-off with the Bucks if all things hold up.
It’s been a very slow season at the top 4 with little movement. Things are likely to stay that way for an indefinite period since the Covid-19 pandemic has forced organizers to suspend the league. It’s essential to look into the past, as we wait for the activities to start again.
Which begs the question: How many times has the on-odds favourites team gone on to win the championship?
2008-2009 Season
The Boston Celtics were on-odds favourites to win the tournament. They weren’t even contenders in the previous year. A few notable purchases helped them shore up their defence and offence to reach the final, and take the title.
2009-2010 Season
The Lakers were unstoppable in the following season as on-odds favourites. They were the team to beat, and they made it to finals where they took the crown.
2012-2013 Season
The 2013 championships had two on-odds favourites. These were the Miami Heat and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Both teams made it to the finals, but Miami proved too hot for the Thunder.
2015-2016 Season
The Golden State Warriors had a surprising shift in form thanks to the acquisition of Stephen Curry and Co. They went on to reach the finals and take the cup back to Oakland in exquisite style.
2016-2017 Season
The Golden State Warriors were yet again favourites to take the title, which they achieved with a thorough routing of the mighty Cavs.
2018-2019 Season
The 2019 championships saw a masterful performance from the Toronto Raptors. This team came from nothing to becoming the on-odd favourites and they didn’t disappoint the bookmakers.