NBA Frontrunners Shift to LA Clippers Following Remarkable Acquisitions of Leonard and George in Stunning Transactions
Los Angeles Clippers Emerge as Dark Horses in NBA Title Race
The Los Angeles Clippers have made a significant move in the NBA title race, following the acquisition of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. According to the latest betting odds, the Clippers are now positioned as solid dark-horse title contenders, with odds of around +2000 for the 2025-26 season.
The Clippers' title chances have improved significantly since the beginning of the summer, with their odds rising from +3500 to their current position. This uptick in optimism comes despite some offseason roster changes, including the acquisition of John Collins and the potential addition of Bradley Beal.
The Clippers' improved odds are a testament to the impact of Leonard and George, who combined for an average of more than 54 points per game last season. The duo's arrival has bolstered the Clippers' offense and made them a formidable force in the Western Conference.
The Clippers' title odds are not as low as some of the favourites, such as the Thunder (+275) and Nuggets (+600), but they are still a notable contender. In comparison, teams like the Lakers (+1600) and Timberwolves (+1800) have slightly lower odds.
The Clippers' title chances have also affected the odds of their city rivals, the Lakers. After the trade became public, Caesars dropped the Lakers from 20-1 odds to 7-2. However, as of midday Saturday, the Lakers remained the SuperBook's top team according to the number of bets made and the money wagered.
The Clippers' acquisition of Leonard and George has also made them a team to be reckoned with, with a tandem that rivals other top NBA teams, including the Lakers' Anthony Davis and LeBron James.
Critically, the Clippers had back-to-back 50-win seasons and finished strong in 2024-25 but have not advanced beyond the first playoff round since 2021. Kawhi Leonard's health remains a key factor, as his limited availability last season constrained their ceiling. However, with a healthier Leonard and new additions, the Clippers are seen as competitive Pacific Division favorites behind the Lakers and Golden State Warriors.
In summary, the Clippers are positioned as solid dark-horse title contenders with +2000 odds, trailing just behind teams like the Lakers (+1600) and Timberwolves (+1800), and far behind the favourites like the Thunder (+275) and Nuggets (+600). With their improved roster and title odds, the Clippers are poised to make a run at the NBA championship next season.
The Los Angeles Clippers, bolstered by the acquisitions of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, are now seen as formidable basketball forces in the NBA, with improved title odds of +2000 for the 2025-26 season. Their impressive offensive capabilities, as demonstrated by their combined average of more than 54 points per game last season, have positioned them as a team to be reckoned with, even rivaling top NBA teams like the Lakers.
