LeBron James Bolsters 76ers' Odds, Thunder and Spurs Still Top

Below that, the odds tighten. Denver, Toronto, Minnesota, Detroit and Cleveland are clustered together. Toronto stands out: betting markets expect the Raptors to eventually close a trade for Kawhi Leonard, bringing back the key to their 2019 title run. Miami is the next team in line for a top-10 spot, with odds reflecting the expectation that Giannis Antetokounmpo will pair with Bam Adebayo to return the Heat to the playoffs.

Even without James, the Lakers are still expected to make the playoffs. Luka Doncic's team has solid odds. Indiana, which lost Tyrese Haliburton to injury last season and fell to the bottom of the league, is also projected to return. Houston and Golden State round out the top 15, suggesting bettors see those clubs as postseason-bound.

Further down the board, Atlanta, Orlando and Portland sit in the next tier. The Wizards have Trae Young, Anthony Davis and Khris Middleton, plus the No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa. Washington is projected as a play-in candidate, alongside Phoenix, Charlotte, Dallas and Utah.

Value bettors can find long odds on the Los Angeles Clippers, New Orleans, Chicago, Memphis, Milwaukee, Brooklyn and Sacramento. The oddsmakers offer a reminder: there is always a surprise. Charlotte won 44 games last season after being near the bottom of preseason lists. Detroit did the same the season before.

Based on the average of current odds, the playoff picture would look like this. East: New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Toronto, Detroit, Cleveland, Miami, Indiana. West: Oklahoma City, San Antonio, Denver, Minnesota, Los Angeles Lakers, Houston, Golden State, Portland.