Raptors title odds take slight dip ahead of season restart

The NBA has finalized a 22-team field that is set to continue playing this season after the COVID-19 pandemic brought the season to a halt, and the Toronto Raptors have a firm hold on second place in the Eastern Conference. The defending champs lead the Boston Celtics by 3.0 games. Toronto might not catch the first place Milwaukee Bucks, but it’s clenched a spot in the playoffs.

Many had doubts about the Raptors after they lost Kawhi Leonard to the Los Angeles Clippers in free agency, but they’ve exceeded expectations while battling a slew of injuries this season. Marc Gasol is one of the most formidable defensive bigs in the league, but he has missed 28 games this season because of injury. Other key players have dealt with health issues as well though. Kyle Lowry, Serge Ibaka, Pascal Siakam, Norman Powell, and Fred VanVleet have all missed at least 10 games apiece this season. Toronto still has the third best record (46-18).

VanVleet (shoulder) hasn’t played since February and Gasol (hamstring) appeared in one game in March after missing all of February. VanVleet is having a breakout year while flourishing alongside Lowry in the backcourt this season, and Toronto has sorely missed combining Gasol in the post. There hasn’t been a significant injury update on VanVleet or Gasol since the NBA season was postponed. That could be why the Raptors’ championship odds have worsened.

Toronto Raptors Championship odds

Toronto’s title odds were at +1800 on DraftKings SportsBook on May 13 but that mark has dropped to +2200.

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA) or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN) or 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO). NH/NJ/WV/IN/PA/CO only. 21+ (18+ NH). Eligibility Restrictions Apply. See website for details.