NBA DPOY 2025-26 Betting Preview: Odds, Favorites, Predictions

Victor Wembanyama (-5000)

Victor Wembanyama has turned this award race into a near lock. His NBA DPOY odds of -5000 show just how far ahead he is compared to everyone else. Simply put, he has been the most dominant defensive player in the league this season.

🚨 WEMBY INJURY SCARE! 🚨

Victor Wembanyama just exited the Spurs vs. 76ers game with a bruised rib after a tough collision. 😬

​He only needs ONE more 20-minute game to qualify for NBA awards. Will this injury cost him the DPOY or MVP? 🏆👀

​#Wembanyama #GoSpursGo #NBA pic.twitter.com/66j42eC2Jl

— SwishQuest 🏀 (@SwishQuest) April 7, 2026

Wembanyama is an elite rim protector. He blocks shots at a very high rate, often stopping opponents from even attempting shots near the basket. But his impact goes beyond just blocking shots. He changes how teams play offense. When players see him near the rim, they hesitate, take tougher shots, or avoid the paint completely. That kind of influence is rare and extremely valuable.

The only real concern is whether he meets the league’s 65-game requirement to qualify for awards. He recently injured his ribs, which could affect his ability to play. However, he only needs to appear in one more game and play enough minutes to stay eligible. As long as he does that, there is little doubt he will win.

From an NBA DPOY betting perspective, Wembanyama isn’t very appealing because the return is so small. His odds are so high that you would have to risk a lot of money to win a little. Still, he is the safest pick possible. He is not just winning this year. “Wemby” could dominate this award for many years to come.

Chet Holmgren (+850)

Chet Holmgren has also had an excellent defensive season. He plays a major role in Oklahoma City’s defense, which is one of the best in the NBA. Holmgren ranks near the top of the league in blocked shots and shows impressive versatility. He can guard big players in the paint and also switch onto smaller players on the perimeter.

Chet Holmgren is going to be All-Defense First Team. He’s going to finish top 2 in DPOY voting. And he should be All-NBA Third Team.

Dominant first half from Chet on both ends tonight.

— Brandon Rahbar (@BrandonRahbar) April 9, 2026

Even with all of that, Holmgren faces a big problem: Victor Wembanyama. In many seasons, Holmgren’s performance might be enough to win the award. But this year, Wembanyama’s impact has been so strong that it overshadows everyone else.

Another factor is how voters think. Awards like DPOY often go to players who create excitement and attention. Wembanyama has become the center of attention because of his unique skills and highlight plays. Even though Holmgren’s numbers are strong, he does not have the same level of buzz.

At +850 odds for NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Holmgren might seem like a decent option. However, betting on him means you are going against a player who is almost guaranteed to win. That makes it a risky and unlikely bet. Holmgren deserves recognition for his great season, but this likely isn’t his year to take home the award.

Rudy Gobert (+20000)

Rudy Gobert is one of the most accomplished defenders in NBA history, with four DPOY awards already. He is still a strong defensive presence, especially around the basket. He rebounds well and can still protect the rim effectively.

However, his NBA DPOY odds of +20000 show that he is not seriously considered a contender this season. The main reason is that the NBA is changing. Modern defense requires players to be more flexible. Players like Wembanyama and Holmgren can guard multiple positions and move well on the perimeter, which is becoming more important in today’s game.

Gobert’s style of defense is more traditional. He is excellent at protecting the paint, but not as effective when switching onto smaller, faster players. Because of this, his impact does not stand out as much compared to younger players who can do more.

At such high odds, betting on Gobert would require something unusual to happen. While he still contributes to his team’s success, his chances of winning another DPOY award this season are extremely low.

Scottie Barnes (+30000)

Scottie Barnes is another interesting defensive player. He is known for his versatility and ability to guard all five positions. This is a rare skill that makes him very valuable to his team.

However, Barnes faces several challenges in the DPOY race. One issue is his team’s overall performance. While Toronto has a solid defense and might finish top five in defensive rating, voters often favor players from the very best defensive teams in the league. Being on a very good defense is not always enough.

Another issue is visibility. Players like Wembanyama and Holmgren get attention because of their block numbers and highlight plays. Barnes does not produce as many flashy moments, even though his defense is effective. This can make it harder for voters to notice his impact.

With NBA Defensive Player of the Year odds of +30000, Barnes is considered a long shot. While he is a talented defender, it is very unlikely that he will win the award this season. His odds reflect that reality.