The 2017-18 NBA season has been far from predictable. So many players have been jumping ship that it is hard to predict who will come out on top. While the Golden State Warriors are the odds-on favourites, a big blank is drawn on the other teams. Will teams like the Thunder, Rockets and Celtics be rewarded for moving mountains to improve their squads? Can teams like the Bucks, Wizards and Spurs quietly benefit from another year of continuity and catch people off guard? Or is there youth movement that will speed through the many stages of rebuilding? One thing is for sure, the NBA betting odds for next season will be far from straightforward. We look at the dark horses for the NBA crown.

Milwaukee Bucks

With Giannis Antetokounmpo steering them along, the Bucks are steadily climbing up the ladder. No second-tier team is better positioned to crack the conference’s top four than the Bucks. Last season they were hobbled by an injury to one of their star players Khris Middleton. The Bucks aren’t as proven or as experienced as the Wizards and Raptors. But their ability to field long, athletic and versatile lineups that accentuate Antetokounmpo’s prodigious playmaking talents, make them a threat.

Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers lost a piece of their arsenal with Chris Paul leaving. But they have gained a playmaker in Blake Griffin, a small forward in Danilo Gallinari and an intriguing point guard duo in Milos Teodosic and Patrick Beverley. The Clippers could surprise the league if they simply limited their falls. Griffin and DeAndre Jordan will have to step up and lead the charge.

Detroit Pistons

Last year was definitely not the best one if you are a Detroit Pistons fan. Detroit came into last season with great expectations and a number of players in their prime. But something didn’t quite work. But an improved Reggie Jackson, Andre Drummond and Avery Bradley could definitely be enough to make this team a surprise six-seed in a terrible Eastern Conference.