With the summer dog days truly here, the Oklahoma City Thunder lead the way in the latest 2025-26 NBA championship odds from our prime NBA betting sites.
The championship odds saw some subtle shifts as teams make strategic moves to bolster their chances of winning the Larry O'Brien Trophy.
Before you make any wagers on an NBA contender, take a look at our NBA Futures page, which provides valuable information.
After defeating the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder remain big favorites across our best sports betting sites.
Here’s a look at the latest NBA championship odds, favorites, and teams to watch in those 2026 NBA Championship Picks.
2026 NBA Championship Odds
| NBA 2026 Futures |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City Thunder | +200 | +220 | +200 |
| Houston Rockets | +700 | +680 | +700 |
| Denver Nuggets | +800 | +750 | +800 |
| New York Knicks | +850 | +850 | +850 |
| Cleveland Cavaliers | +850 | +900 | +900 |
| Minnesota Timberwolves | +1300 | +1125 | +1200 |
| Los Angeles Lakers | +1400 | +1250 | +1400 |
| Golden State Warriors | +1800 | +1500 | +1600 |
| Orlando Magic | +2000 | +1800 | +1600 |
| Los Angeles Clippers | +2800 | +2400 | +2600 |
Oklahoma City Thunder Show Us The Way
With their championship performance in the 2025 NBA Finals and a resilient 16-7 record in the playoffs, the Thunder remain the top favorites to repeat in the 2026 NBA Championship picks.
The 2025 title along with winning 68 regular season games present a strong case for NBA bettors. Some believe that the Thunder could even push for 70 wins this regular season. With MVP Shia Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams carrying the offense, it could be another long season for teams trying to defend against the Thunder.
Despite this being their first title in Oklahoma City's existence, many feel that number two could come as soon as next season. With Mark Daigenault back and most of the same characters, who is going to stop them? Also, a few injuries to key teams like the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics do not hurt either.
With extending three of their key performers to big contracts, Oklahoma City remains all in as it tries to defend their NBA crown against what expects to be a crowded Western Conference, That is highlighted by their +170 odds to come out of the Western Conference. It will not be easy against teams like Houston and Denver. However, the Thunder are hungry for more!
Houston Rockets Heir To The 2026 NBA Championship Picks Throne?
As July rolls along, the Houston Rockets shortened all the way to +680 in the 2026 NBA Championship Picks. Few should be surprised here.
Now, those odds moved a little more when it was revealed Kevin Durant was headed to the Rockets. This might be Durant's last shot at another NBA title. Coach Ime Udoka led Houston to a 52-30 record last season and more bettors and pundits are coming around to the idea that Houston could take a few steps closer to a championship.
Alas, the pieces have to fit in Houston but the Rockets will be the favorite to win their division and their conference odds are now comfortably better than the Denver Nuggets. That surprises some but maybe it should not. While Denver had its share of volatility, Houston is an up and coming team. It also does not hurt that Alperen Senguin and Armen Thompson are two of the younger stars that will only keep improving with experience.
However, the level of risk with this team is as high as with any contender, adding Durant is an indication this team wants to win now. The question becomes is are they truly ready come playoff time.
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What To Do With The Denver Nuggets?
The Nuggets fired their coach and yet nearly defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, Denver, led by three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, remains a top contender in the Western Conference for the 2025-26 season. Jokic is one of the best players in this era and his ability to dominate games is next-level elite. Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon have proven to be excellent complements to Jokic. Brining in Russell Westbrook though adds much intrigue to the Denver mix.
The Nuggets carry +550 odds to advance to the NBA Final in the 2026 NBA Championship Picks. Honestly, the question may become more can the coaching staff get the Nuggets to play more consistent. It was a huge reason for their seven game loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the playoffs. Simply, Denver just could not sustain success.
If that problem is solved, then look out. If not, then Denver may be a team to pass on especially given the changes they made late last season.
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers' offseason ask can Cleveland figure out the playoffs? This was one of the best teams in the regular season, led the East with 64 wins, and Kenny Atkinson is back as coach. However, who will be that foil in the East that could frustrate them like Indiana? Some fear it could be the team below this one in our picks.
Most are not worried about the Darrius Garland injury. As a matter of fact, some welcome it as a chance for other Cleveland players to assume different roles. Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell still pose as huge two-way threats that can score and shut teams down.
This is still a team to keep an eye on. Cleveland now knows playoff adversity and how not to handle it. It all boils down to what they learned this summer.
New York Knicks
The Knicks are once again among the top five teams when the 2026 NBA Championship Picks opened. New York ranks fourth or fifth depending on which sportsbook one uses.
The Knicks got to the Eastern Conference Final before surprisingly falling apart against the Indiana Pacers. New York blew a nearly 20-point lead in Game 1 and never really recovered.
The big question for this team will be consistent enough defense, especially with Karl-Anthony Towns and even Jalen Brunson at times.
Check our top sportsbook reviews for the best odds on your favorite NBA games before placing your bets.
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