Bettors who are placing a wager on Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals between the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat have acknowledged there is a decision to make given the spread is so narrow.
Those backing the Heat, who benefit from both home-court advantage and more rest, can see the benefit in taking Miami to cover the mere 1.5-point spread rather than picking the hosts on the moneyline. It offers a few extra cents on the dollar and the only way those bets lose is if Miami wins by a single point. It’s possible, sure, but bettors are willing to take their chances.
That’s why 58% of spread bets and 64% of the spread handle at DraftKings Sportsbook is on Jimmy Butler and company to win by two points or more, according to a release. It’s quite similar at BetMGM Sportsbook, where 66% of spread bets and 75% of the money wagered on the spread is on Miami to cover.
On the other hand, those who think the Celtics will maintain their momentum after a Game 7 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday see Boston at plus-money to win straight up and it’s enough to get them to overlook getting 1.5 points on the spread. That’s led to the Celtics getting the clear majority of moneyline wagers, as 64% of bets (58% of the handle) at BetMGM are on Boston. Those placing wagers at DraftKings view it similarly, as 59% of moneyline bets (54% of the handle) are on the Green.
The shortened total has prompted some tough decisions, as well. The Game 1 total, which is set at over/under 203.5 at BetMGM, is quite low in comparison to other NBA playoff games, but given both teams’ defensive style, it’s easy to think even that number is too high.
Sixty percent of the money wagered on the total (53% of bets) is on the Under at BetMGM. In contrast, 60% of bets (48% of the handle) is on Over 204 at DraftKings.
The Celtics remain the series favorites entering Game 1 against the Heat.
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