Does Gordon Hayward really improve the Celtics’ title odds?

Does Gordon Hayward really improve the Celtics’ title odds?

With the acquisition of Gordon Hayward, the Boston Celtics have closed the gap between themselves and the Cleveland Cavaliers in the battle for the Eastern Conference.

Jeff Sherman, Westgate Las Vegas Superbook Manager, reported that the addition of Hayward moved the Celtics from 15/1 to 12/1 to win the 2017-18 NBA Championship. The signing also had an effect on the Cavaliers, dropping them from 3/1 to 13/4.

NBA Title odds updated

Warriors 5/11
Cavaliers 13/4 (from 3/1)
Celtics 12/1 (from 15/1)
Spurs 12/1
Rockets 20/1
Thunder 30/1
T’Wolves 40/1

— Jeff Sherman (@golfodds) July 4, 2017

In terms of the Eastern Conference, Boston is now listed at 3/1 (from 4/1 on June 24) while Cleveland is currently 4/9 (down from 2/5).

The offshore market reacted a bit differently– at BetOnline, the Celtics moved from 15/1 to 15/2 over the last week in anticipation of Hayward’s arrival. Heritage also lists the Celtics at 15/2 now, while Bovada offers 10/1.