NBA Conference Finals MVP Odds, Picks & Predictions: Why Wembanyama and Cunningham Are Worth the Risk

A very big part of that will be the unique playing style of Victor Wembanyama. He's a walking highlight reel and virtually un-guardable, whether he's doing work in the paint, the mid-range, or stepping out and knocking down threes.

While the offense will always be there (25 points per game), it's his defensive presence that will impact games more often than not. His ability to protect the rim (11.5 rebounds, 3.1 blocks), alter shots, and disrupt timing is the added edge needed when picking a standout player in the conference finals.

While the Spurs still need to win two rounds, and then potentially meet the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals, Wemby's odds will not linger around at +320 for very long.

Act now before you miss out on the best number.

Long shot play

Pick: Alperen Sengun (+8000 at bet365)

Rockets

If you're looking for a long shot play, look no further than the engine of the Houston Rockets, Alperen Sengun.

Sengun has been nothing short of stellar for the Rockets this season, averaging 20.4 points per game and leading the team in rebounds (8.9) and assists (6.2).

He may not be the sexy name on the Rockets with Kevin Durant still around, but he's still the straw that stirs the drink, and his ability to stuff the stat sheet in more ways than one can only help his case.

Eastern Conference Finals MVP best bet

Pick: Cade Cunningham (+550 at bet365)

Pistons

The Detroit Pistons go as Cade Cunningham goes, and that’s exactly what you want when betting this market.

Everything runs through him. He’s the primary scorer, the primary playmaker, and the one with the ball in his hands when games tighten up. That kind of usage matters in a series where every possession is magnified.

Cunningham has taken a clear step forward as a scorer while still filling up the box score across the board. Points, assists, rebounds. It’s all there, and it shows up every night.

If the Pistons break through to the Eastern Conference Finals, it won’t be because of depth or balance. It’ll be because Cunningham carried them there.

At +550, you’re getting the best player on his team at a number that won’t last if Detroit makes a run.

Long shot play

Pick: Mikal Bridges (+20000 at bet365)

Knicks

If you’re swinging for a number, Mikal Bridges checks every box as a long shot.

He’s one of the most reliable two-way players in the league and rarely comes off the floor. That kind of workload adds up over a playoff series.

Bridges doesn’t need high volume to make an impact. He scores efficiently, defends the opposing team’s first or second option, and consistently finds ways to influence the game without forcing it.

If the New York Knicks can put it all together for three rounds, Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns will play a part, but Bridges' ability to impact the game at both ends in meaningful moments could tip the scales in his favor.

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