Over the past few months, betting trends have favored the public significantly. After consistently winning on favorites in the NFL and during March Madness, the tables have turned for the NBA playoffs. At least for the start of the second round, underdogs are 5-0 both straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS).

“I’m not that surprised, and the reason I say that is because, over the past five months, we’ve had a lot of chalk winning, with football and the NCAA Tournament,” said Johnny Avello, director of operations for DraftKings Sportsbook. “There will always be a time when there’s a switching of the guard. This was that time for the ‘dogs to have their day.”

As upsets occur, unique betting opportunities arise for the NBA playoffs.

Second-Round Upsets
The momentum began with the Indiana Pacers defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 121-112, despite being 8.5-point underdogs. Other surprising outcomes include the New York Knicks edging the Boston Celtics 108-105 in overtime and the Denver Nuggets overcoming the Oklahoma City Thunder with a last-second three-pointer from Aaron Gordon.

Now, bettors have the chance to leverage the odds on teams like the Celtics and Thunder, who dropped to shorter prices after their opening games. Avello noted, “Now, bettors have the opportunity to bet two favorites at a much shorter price. And they’re doing it.”

Considering Parlay Bets
Oklahoma City led the regular season with a 68-14 record, while Boston’s performance saw them through the first round successfully. Combining bets on these teams may yield significant returns, although caution is advised.

“You probably feel confident in the Celtics. It’s hard to believe the Knicks could beat the Celtics,” Avello stated. “But the problem with being confident in that parlay bet is that you don’t feel as good about the other two teams.”

In conclusion, the dynamics of the playoffs have created a compelling landscape for betting enthusiasts eager to seize the moment as upsets redefine traditional expectations.