The New York Knicks shockingly made a historic comeback in Game 4, erasing a 29-point deficit in the third quarter to knock off the San Antonio Spurs in a 107-106 victory. It was an incredible game capped off by a putback by OG Anunoby to seal the win for the Knicks.
The question is, how can the Spurs respond to that? Blowing a lead like that was an absolute collapse. They’re now facing elimination, down 3-1 in the NBA Finals. This team will have a chance to respond to adversity here. Can Victor Wembanyama get his team back on track with a win in Game 5?
NBA Finals Betting Preview: Knicks vs Spurs Game 5 Odds & Analysis
Heading into Game 4, the Spurs have a chance to extend the series, as they try to climb out of the hole they dug themselves into in losing three of the first four games. The question is, how will the Spurs respond after blowing such a massive lead? Let’s dive into the best offshore sportsbooks to take a closer look at NBA Finals betting odds.
NBA Finals Game 5 Betting Odds
NBA Finals Game 5 betting odds are courtesy of BetOnline.
- Spread: Knicks +5.5 (-115) at Spurs -5.5 (-105)
- Moneyline: Knicks (+170) at Spurs (-195)
- Total: Over 216 (-110) / Under 216 (-110)
There are no real market corrections with the NBA betting odds for Game 5. The Spurs come in as 5.5-point favorites and -195 on the moneyline, which is similar to what we saw in Game 4, when the spread was around 5.5.
The total is in line with what we’ve seen throughout the series at 216 points as well. The under has hit in three of four games so far, but the number has always stayed between 215 and 217, so no major changes there.
NBA Finals Game 5 Best Bets
When looking at the NBA Finals odds for Game 5, it looks like the spread is a bit inflated for the Spurs, given what we’ve seen throughout the series. However, they were my original pick to win it all, so I’m leaning in their direction.
This has been a low-scoring series, especially since they are two of the best defensive teams in the NBA, so riding Under 216 makes a lot of sense.
I’ve landed on one key pick for Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
Spurs -5.5 (-105) vs Knicks
I know that 5.5 points is in line with what we’ve seen in the rest of the series, but this feels like a high number at first look. But when diving in, it seems like oddsmakers are begging you to take the Knicks +5.5 here.
I’m going with Spurs -5.5 because not only are we getting -105 instead of the standard -110, but I’m betting on San Antonio to bounce back at home following an embarrassing blown lead in Game 4.
Yes, the Spurs squandered a 25-point lead, which is inexcusable. But we also have to acknowledge that they got to that point in the first place. Having such a huge lead at Madison Square Garden in front of a raucous crowd of Knicks fans is quite impressive.
This was despite the fact that Wemby shot only 9-of-25 from the field. Expect him to be much more efficient with the Spurs facing elimination.
After dropping the first two games of this series at home, I don’t expect San Antonio to lose their third in a row there. Bet on them to get back on track here.
NBA Finals Game 5 Responsible Gaming
Keep these responsible gaming principles in mind before placing your wagers:
- Set a spending limit before the game begins and stick to it
- Don’t increase your bet sizes in an attempt to recover previous losses
- Make decisions based on research and analysis rather than fandom or emotion
- Understand that a few key plays can dramatically alter the outcome of a game
- Treat sports betting as entertainment, not a source of income
The NBA Finals feature two elite teams competing at the highest level, which means outcomes are often decided by small margins. Staying disciplined and managing your bankroll responsibly can help make the experience more enjoyable, regardless of the final score.
If gambling starts to negatively affect your finances or personal well-being, consider taking a break and seeking help. For confidential assistance and responsible gaming resources, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Final Verdict: Contrarian Approach Can Be Profitable
Your first reaction to the Spurs being favored by 5.5 points likely was, “Really?!” How can they be such heavy favorites after blowing a huge lead? How can this team respond after such a disastrous collapse?
That’s what everyone else is thinking, too. But when everyone else zigs, that’s where you zag.
We can’t underestimate the Spurs with Wemby leading the way. He’s a generational player who makes a major impact on both ends of the floor. I expect them to respond in Game 5.
Look for the Spurs to jump out to an early lead and actually hold onto it this time around. The line is this high for a reason.
The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.
