NBA Season Outlook: Key Teams to Watch in 2025-2026

While many sports fans avoid betting on preseason futures due to unfavorable risk-reward ratios, I find a notable exception in NBA win totals. These markets offer clearer edges and more flexibility, with the ability to re-adjust bets throughout the season.

Popular markets like player awards or championship bets often come with higher payouts but less favorable odds for bettors. Conversely, win totals remain accessible all season long, allowing for strategic repositioning, hedging, or increasing stakes as the season progresses. Additionally, when a team surpasses its win projection or drops below it, payouts are typically quick to follow, often within the regular season.

1. Toronto Raptors (Over/Under 37.5 Wins)

Last year, the Raptors excelled against the spread, covering over 59% of their games despite only 30 wins, thanks to a deep roster and astute coaching by Darko Rajaković. This offseason, they’ve shifted focus towards winning, adding Brandon Ingram and re-signing Jakob Poeltl, strengthening their core. The projected starting lineup, including Quickley, Barrett, Ingram, Barnes, and Poeltl, looks poised to contend for a top-six seed in a weak Eastern Conference.

I support betting the over on their win total, along with wagering on their playoff qualification, as the team’s upgrades increase their playoff odds significantly.

2. Portland Trail Blazers (Over/Under 35.5 Wins)

The Blazers have emphasized defense this offseason, acquiring Jrue Holiday to bolster their squad. However, their recent performance has been inconsistent, with a notable 10-1 streak in late January/early February amid a generally balanced record since January. With owner re-energized and coaching re-signed, they remain unlikely to challenge for playoff placement in the tough West—their current roster and recent trends suggest a cautious lean toward the under.

3. Phoenix Suns (Over/Under 31.5 Wins)

The Suns have undergone significant roster changes, including trading Kevin Durant and integrating new players like Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, who offers reliable shooting. Under new head coach Jordan Ott, they seem poised for a more balanced and versatile team. While they likely won’t reach 50 wins, their improved construction makes the over on 31.5 wins a promising bet, reflecting their enhanced potential.