As the 2024-25 NBA season progresses, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Washington Wizards headline the extremes of the league’s performance, while teams like the Memphis Grizzlies, Denver Nuggets, and Los Angeles Clippers carve out their own niches in betting markets. Here’s a breakdown of the NBA’s best and worst records straight-up (SU), against the spread (ATS), and in over/under outcomes as of Monday, January 27, 2025.
Straight-Up (SU) Records
Best: Oklahoma City Thunder (37-9)
The Thunder have been the NBA’s dominant force, boasting a league-best 37-9 record. Their 17-5 road mark and 20-4 home dominance reflect a balanced, championship-caliber roster.
Worst: Washington Wizards (6-38)
The Wizards are in a dire slump, winning just six games overall. Their 1-20 road record is particularly jarring, signaling a need for major offseason adjustments.
Against the Spread (ATS) Records
Best (Tie): Oklahoma City Thunder & Memphis Grizzlies (29-17)
Both the Thunder and Grizzlies have thrived as bettors’ favorites, covering the spread in 29 games. Memphis’s 18-4 road over/under dominance and OKC’s 14-8 ATS road record highlight their consistency.
Worst: Phoenix Suns (13-31)
Despite a respectable 23-21 SU record, the Suns are a disaster ATS, covering just 13 times. Their 5-17 home ATS mark is a glaring weakness.
Over/Under Records
Best (Tie): Atlanta Hawks & Denver Nuggets (29-16)
The Hawks and Nuggets are must-watch teams for over bettors, combining high-octane offenses with porous defenses. Denver’s 29-16 over trend, including a league-best 18-4 road over record, stands out.
Worst: Los Angeles Clippers (16-28-1)
The Clippers are the under kingpin, with 28 games staying below the total. Their 10-15-0 home over/under record underscores a defensive identity under coach Ty Lue.
Notable Trends
- Cleveland Cavaliers (36-9 SU, 28-17 ATS): The Cavs are title contenders, excelling both SU and ATS. Their 29-15-1 over record also ranks among the league’s top five.
- Portland Trail Blazers (27-18 ATS): Despite a 17-29 SU record, Portland covers spreads at a 60% clip, including 14-9 on the road.
- Detroit Pistons (25-20 ATS): A sneaky-good ATS team, Detroit’s 17-7 road ATS record is the NBA’s best.
Conclusion
The Thunder and Grizzlies are dual threats in SU and ATS markets, while the Hawks and Nuggets deliver fireworks for over bettors. Conversely, the Wizards and Suns face uphill battles to regain relevance, and the Clippers’ defensive grind continues to frustrate over enthusiasts. As the season enters its second half, these trends will be critical for fans and bettors alike.
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