NBA PLAYOFFS

Jon HoeflingUSA TODAYJune 3, 2026, 5:31 a.m. ETBETAAsk USA TODAY anything

What is Spurs' road record against the spread?

Why Knicks' first Finals since 1999?

How split are USA TODAY staff picks?

AI Overview

Full Summary

The article outlines expert predictions and betting odds for Game 1 and the overall 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs, highlighting a split among USA TODAY staff on the likely winner and series length, with the Spurs listed as betting favorites.

Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals tips off tonight, and although the New York Knicks have won 11 consecutive games, including sweeps over both the Philadelphia 76ers and Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference semifinals and finals, respectively, the San Antonio Spurs seem to be the favorites to win the championship.

It does make sense. After all, the Spurs just took care of the Oklahoma City Thunder – the heavy favorites as the postseaon began – eliminating the defending champions in seven games in the Western Conference finals. However, San Antonio's victory is evidence that nothing is set in stone once the playoffs roll around.

Both experts and viewers and experts have learned to anticipate the unexpected and not to be so alarmed when a team manages to steal a few games or even win a series against a heavily favored opponent.

With the series tipping off Wednesday, June 3, here are USA TODAY's NBA staff picks, the latest odds, and what other experts around the internet are predicting for Game 1 and the entirety of the NBA Finals:

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/playoffs/2026/06/03/knicks-spurs-nba-finals-odds-predictions-game-1/90378480007/