Pacers Draw Heavy Public Backing Despite Thunder Attracting Sharp Money

[RealGM Wiretap]

The Indiana Pacers are the biggest Finals underdogs in 20 years at 5-1, but they are receiving strong support from the betting public. ESPN BET reported Thursday that 78 percent of the bets on the series winner were on Indiana, while nearly 90 percent of the money that had been wagered was on the Oklahoma City Thunder.

In order for a bettor to win $100, they would have to risk $700 on the Thunder.

The Detroit Pistons were also 5-1 underdogs in the 2004 Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers, which they went on to win in five games.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a -550 favorite to win Finals MVP.

Via David Purdum/ESPN

[njknicks]

Very intriguing series.

OKC roster is essentially "redundant" players with similar/identical skill sets ( 3&D type, identical defensive )
Pacers roster is much more versatile offensively.

OKC's bruising defensive style works for teams that are sub-par / inconsistent offensively;
It will be challenged when facing a high-powered and / or efficient offense.

Above all, Carlisle's coaching will be showcased.

[scrabbarista]

I still expect the sharps to come out on top here. OKC can play much better (esp Daigneault).