Explore How NBA Point Spreads Actually Work
A point spread levels the field between two teams. The favorite gives points; the underdog gets them. If the Lakers are -6.5 against the Bulls, Los Angeles must win by seven or more for a spread bet on LA to cash. Back Chicago at +6.5 and they just need to lose by fewer than seven — or win outright. The number shifts
with betting volume, injuries, and late lineup news, so the line you see at open may look different by tip-off. Checking line movement in your account before locking in a wager is always worth a few seconds of your time.