Damian Lillard. Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

Damian Lillard's MVP odds shorten after trade to Bucks

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 9/27/23

It's no surprise that the Milwaukee Bucks quickly became the favorite at sportsbooks to win the 2024 NBA title right after they acquired Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers.

But it looks like Dame himself is getting a boost from oddsmakers, as his odds of winning MVP at the end of the season have shortened at DraftKings and other outlets.

MVP odds shifts after trade:

Giannis +550 -> +700
Dame +2200 -> +1600 pic.twitter.com/7RPbELbxph
— PointsBet: A Fanatics Experience (@PointsBetFBG) September 27, 2023

Expectations couldn't be higher for Lillard. The Oakland, Calif. native saw limited playing time over the past two seasons due to a variety of injuries but was still a standout when he played. Through 58 games played last season, Lillard still averaged a career-high 32.2 points per game and a career-high 4.2 three-pointers.

The All-Star point guard has played 11 seasons in the NBA, all with Portland, and averaged 25.2 points per game over that span. He requested a trade from the Trail Blazers back in July due to his desire to play for a contender, since Portland hasn't made an NBA Finals appearance since 1992 and has just one title which was won in 1977.

The Trail Blazers are scheduled to host Lillard and his new team on Jan. 31, 2024.

Check out Yardbarker's betting hub for more previews, predictions, news and analysis.

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