NBA DPOY Odds for 2024-25: Wemby Unstoppable?

Victory Wembanyama (-180) – The Main Favorite

The hype around Wemby was unreal last year, but he quickly proved it’s completely justified. The big man delivered insane stats in his first season: 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 3.6 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game on just under 30 minutes per game.

The numbers are mind-blowing for a rookie, especially on the defensive end. Wembanyama was like a wall around the rim but was quick enough to move to the perimeter when required.

Wemby has the potential to become one of the greatest defensive players in basketball history. I expect him to win multiple DPOY awards in his career, but will the first one come this season?

He is the man favorite and could definitely win, but I’m reluctant to bet on Wemby at these DPOY odds. -180 is simply too low , especially if Pop once again decides to restrict his minutes.

The Spurs are unlikely to challenge for the NBA title, so the organization will prioritize Wemby’s health and development once again. Every little niggle or other sign of an injury would be enough of a reason to keep him off the floor, especially after the youngster had a deep run with France at the Olympics.

Overall, I don’t see enough value in the latest Defensive Player of the Year betting odds to back him, even if Wemby is 100% the main contender for the award.

Rudy Gobert – The Main Challenger

If you’re looking for a man that could stop Victor Wembanyama’s charge for the DPOY award, it has to be his compatriot Rudy Gobert. The Timberwolves center has won the prize four times, including in 2024.

Some thought his defensive abilities were overrated after a few rough playoff runs with the Jazz, but the move to Minnesota proved them wrong. When Gobert is surrounded by competent perimeter defenders and can focus on protecting the rim, he’s a true beast.

I expect more of the same in 2024-25, so the odds of +1100 for Gobert are insane. Sure, Wemby is the favorite, but the gap is not THAT big. This price equals an implied probability of 8.33%, compared to 64.28% for the younger Frenchman. I really can’t justify such an enormous difference.

The Rest of the Bunch

If Wemby wasn’t in the picture, the likes of Chet Holmgren, Bam Adebayo, Anthony Davis, and Giannis would’ve definitely been legit contenders. However, it’s hard to make a case for any of them right now.

They have to beat the two towering Frenchmen, which would be very hard. I really can’t recommend backing any of them right now.

I really like Evan Mobley and expect him to win at least one DPOY award in his career, but it’s unlikely to happen while he’s on the same team with Jarrett Allen. They share the responsibilities around the rim, which hinders their chances for individual recognition.