An underdog is the team that’s least likely to win a game. In the NBA, there are often games with distinct underdogs. For example, a team near the bottom of a conference playing against a team near the top. Another typical example is when teams are seeded during the playoffs, and the top seeds play the bottom seeds in the first round. We’ve taken a deep dive into how the underdog can impact NBA predictions.
Classic Underdog Performances
When you check NBA game odds, you’ll often see one team more favored than the other. However, an underdog fighting from underneath can occur throughout the season, not just in a single game. In the 2019/20 NBA season, the Miami Heat showed one of the greatest underdog performances.
After finishing the 18/19 season with a losing record, nobody expected the Heat to perform the following year. They were underdogs all year and entered the playoffs expected to lose in every round. The Heat had other ideas and managed to make it to the Finals. Although they didn’t win the championship, they shocked many and provided excellent value for anyone who predicted them to win games on the way.
Impacts on Underdog Performance
Multiple key indicators can impact an underdog’s performance. If you’re looking to find good value for your predictions, look for these factors.
At Home or on the Road
The crowd’s roar can spur a team to perform above its typical levels. If an underdog is at home and its fans are known for vociferous support, it can be a place to find good odds. This becomes more pronounced if the team on the road is known for struggling with a hostile crowd.
Player Condition
Injuries affect a team’s performance. Imagine the great 90s Chicago Bulls team with Jordan and Rodman injured. They would still have been good, but they wouldn’t have been great. Check injury lists to see whether the odds reflect the lineups on the court.
Form
Another aspect to consider is the current form. If a team starts a game on a losing streak, it will impact proceedings. Even an underdog on a poor run will be desperate to turn it around. Check the form books before making your picks to get the most from them.
Tips to Successfully Pick Underdog Results
The first step to improving your underdog picks is to find the best possible odds. Sportzino has fantastic odds available, ensuring you can find the best value. Access to a high-quality social sportsbook ensures you get the best value for your picks.
Using live predictions is another excellent method for making underdog selections. As the odds change throughout a game, you can decide when the best time to make your pick is. For example, if an essential player for the favorite is forced off the court through injury, there will be a period when good value is available on the underdog. If you’re watching the game live, you can use this to make the best choices.
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Featured Image: Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images
