Zion Williamson Odds and Futures

Although Zion Williamson has yet to make his debut for the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2021-2022 NBA season, that doesn’t mean you can still bet on him for certain NBA futures markets. With the state of Louisiana now offering different betting markets for New Orleans Pelicans’ games, you can wager on a variety of Zion Williamson betting odds.

Sportsbooks like DraftKings and BetMGM offer futures markets involving Zion Williamson odds such as NBA MVP, NBA Defensive Player of the Year and NBA Most Improved Player of the Year awards. Entering the third week of the 2021-2022 NBA season, let’s check in on those markets and see where Williamson stands and if it’s worth betting on:

Zion Williamson NBA MVP Odds

+9000, DraftKings Sportsbook

This was one of my best bets prior to the season as Zion Williamson had an upward trajectory coming into his third season. The NBA MVP odds shifted once it was announced Williamson was out for the foreseeable future due to a foot injury, and while it’s still a massive long shot, it might be worth a sprinkle at +9000. The former Duke Blue Devil led all players in field goal percentage with at least 10 shots or more and was top-five in point scored per game last season.

If he can come back and rejuvenate the Pelicans in the standings, he’ll still get some NBA MVP buzz because of his sheer talent and physicality.

Verdict: Don’t love it but wouldn’t be mad if you bet it.

Zion Williamson NBA Defensive Player of the Year Odds

+12000, BetMGM

Even though Zion Williamson can have a play here or there showing off his elite athleticism, it’s difficult to envision him winning NBA Defensive Player of the Year this season. He already has a lot of ground to make up on reigning winner, Rudy Gobert and most of his defensive exploits are highlights. A great block on SportsCenter isn’t going to be enough for voters to forget about Gobert or other elite defensive players where that’s the main part of their game.

Verdict: Hard Pass

Zion Williamson – NBA Most Improved Player of the Year Odds

+750, DraftKings Sportsbook

This NBA futures market should have way higher odds for Zion Williamson and should be closer to the +2000 to +3000 range. The main reason was this is for improvement and Zion was already an all-star last year and averaged just over 27 points per game. Not saying he can’t elevate himself higher into the elite category of NBA players but he’s only a notch below them and entering his third year in the NBA.

Most Improved Player is typically reserved for two types of players: One who moves to a new team and then puts up big stats, or one who has such a dramatic leap — like going from scoring 20 points per game to 30 — that voters have no choice but to give that player the award. Zion, unfortunately, doesn’t fit into either category.

Verdict: No thanks.