A Challenging Choice with High Rewards
When it comes to betting on the NBA Defensive Player of the Year, it can really be a toss up. The criteria aren’t as clear cut as it is in hockey or football – there are no doubt defensive players in basketball, but there isn’t a distinct ‘defense’ position.
There are always the hot players who are always at the back of your mind when you think of an outstanding defensive player. And it’s common for players to win the award in consecutive years – Dwight Howard won three of his awards back to back.
Betting on the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award winner can be a really interesting betting option if you aren’t going to bet on the team futures, especially if you follow certain players instead of a certain team. Luckily, there are far fewer starters in basketball than the other sports like hockey or football, so you have less options to choose from which narrows things down a little bit more.
Placing an NBA Defensive Player of the Year bet is simple: you pick which player you believe will win the award. The earlier you place your wager, usually the better. The only instance you wouldn’t want to get your bet in early is if your chosen player is a sure thing, and the odds reflect that, making your wager not so profitable. Perhaps that player will hit a slump mid-season, well his odds would reduce, and you would see some value if you think he can pick up his boots later in the season. This is a rare circumstance, but usually the only time patience is a virtue in futures betting.
It’s best to ensure you do some research before placing these types of wagers because while we see plenty of repeat wins, there are definitely some new players that can come up from the college level and surprise us.
Looking at Defensive Player of the Year award past winners, Dikembe Mutombo and Ben Wallace are tied with four each. The 2020-21 award winner Rudy Gobert captured his third award last season, tying Dwight Howard. Also, in the history of the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, only one point guard has ever won: Gary Payton.
If you’re ready to bet on the 2021-22 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, look no further – head over to our sportsbook to start betting on the best NBA odds and place your wager now on the best ‘D’ in the game.