Indiana Pacers vs. OKC Thunder Game 5 Prediction & Top Bets (June 16, 2025)

Our heads are spinning from all of the back-and-forth in the NBA Finals. Game 5 is going back to Oklahoma City for Monday’s game, and the series is now tied 2-2 after four alternating battles. 

The Thunder pulled out a 111-104 win on Friday to tie it up, which only reinforced the seesaw pattern of victories. Oklahoma City has gone 9-2 at home during the playoff run, and Indiana has posted a solid 7-3 mark on the road.

OKC is now the favorite to win the whole thing by a healthy margin of 9.5. Can they do it? Will the Pacers prove everyone wrong and take the lead? We have a lot of thoughts, and you can find them below, along with a series recap, betting odds, trends, our best bets, and final score prediction!

Game Details

• Matchup: Indiana Pacers vs. OKC Thunder
• Series Status: Tied 2-2
• Date & Time: Monday, June 16, at 8:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
• Broadcast: ABC
• Streaming: Sling, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Fubo

Series So Far – What’s Changed

The Finals are tied 2–2, and each team has won every other game so far. Every matchup has come down to certain adjustments: late-game decisions, defensive pressure, or bench scoring. Here’s a recap of the first four:

• Game 1 went to Indiana after Haliburton buried a step-back over Lu Dort in the final seconds.
• Game 2 shifted toward Oklahoma City, which forced 17 turnovers, controlled the boards, and pulled away for a 16-point win.
• Game 3 was really close until the closing stretch. The Pacers outscored OKC 13–6 in the final five minutes, with McConnell and Jackson making key plays off the bench.
• Game 4 went back to the Thunder, who used a 12–2 third-quarter run to create separation. Shai led with 26 points, and OKC held the lead the rest of the way in a 111–104 win.

Game Flow & Prediction

Oklahoma City will likely push the pace from the ball drop by getting downhill in transition, attacking off misses, and trying to disrupt Indiana’s defensive shape before it’s in place. That’s been their go-to at home all postseason. The Pacers usually slow things down as the game goes on, favoring controlled possessions and letting Haliburton or McConnell dictate tempo in the halfcourt.

The first half should stay close; both teams will trade short runs. OKC has consistently pulled ahead in the third quarter throughout the series, using that window to shift the momentum. But if Indiana keeps it close heading into the fourth? They’ve been way more composed in those final minutes with quality looks, managing the clock, and forcing defensive stops when it counts.

Betting Odds & Prop Trends

Want to throw down some cash on Game 5? Look below for the latest odds, lines, and prop bets via DraftKings:

Prop Bets

• Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander Over 24.5 Points: SGA’s averaged over 32 at home this series and tied Wilt Chamberlain’s home playoff streak with 30+ in nine straight games. This line is really well-supported!
• Chet Holmgren Under 8.5 Rebounds: Holmgren is looking at fatigue risk, and while he’s grabbing ~7–9 per game, he’s more likely to hover just under 8.5 in this bounce-back spot.
• Isaiah Hartenstein Under 7.5 Points: He’s been limited offensively in rotation, concentrating instead on screens, rebounds, and spacing, and that keeps his scoring on the low end.

Our Best Bets for Game 5 – Pacers vs. Thunder

What are we looking at wager-wise? Below are our picks for the four best bets!

Can the Thunder Defend Home Court? Here’s Our Call

The Finals are back at the Paycom Center and tied at 2–2. Every game has come down to late possessions, and neither team holds momentum for long. Game 5 gives OKC a chance to change the series, but Indiana has shown us that they can hold up when they’re on the road.

We’re backing SGA Over 28.5 points. Why? Because he’s been the best scorer in the series and continues to get high-percentage looks when it counts. Haliburton Over 9.5 assists also stays on the board. His usage hasn’t dropped, and the ball goes through him every time Indiana settles into a halfcourt set.

The number we (and everyone else) like the most is Pacers +9.5. They’ve covered this line in three of four games and have kept things close even when the offense stalls. Oklahoma City might take the win, but the margin projects to stay inside double digits unless one side completely falls apart.

If you’re targeting any of the bets above, move early in the day! Props and spreads have changed closer to tip-off in every game this series, and if you wait, it usually means worse numbers!

Our Final Score Prediction: Thunder 112 – Pacers 107

Oklahoma City comes out on top in a close finish at home, but Indiana covers the spread. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton will both put up strong numbers, and the game will probably be decided in the final minutes of the fourth quarter!

What Are ‘Loss Rebates’ and How to Use Them Without Getting Burned

Loss rebates on a gambling site? If you lose your money you get it back? Say more! Sounds good, doesn’t it? A safety harness that secures you if your luck runs thin while you’re betting.

The loss rebate is pitched to players like this: “If you lose, we’ll give you money back!” Say less! But we can’t say less, because the reality is that the promotions are way more nuanced and complicated. They do sound like you’re getting free insurance, but the fine print strikes again. And if you don’t know the terms, it’s a trap.

The concept is simple enough: casinos advertise cashback or “loss-back” offers so you’ll bet knowing that some of your losses might be refunded.

With a typical 10% cashback deal, it means if you lose $100, you’d get $10 back. But it’s not simple. Unlike cash insurance, almost all loss rebates are given as bonus credits or under super strict conditions. That means the refunded amount isn’t cash that you can withdraw.

So why do gambling sites offer them? And if they aren’t what they claim to be, what even are they? We’ll unpack the catches, like wagering requirements, time limits, and psychological downsides that turn what looks like a friendly offer into a player trap. This is your definitive guide and decoder for rebate-speak so that you can learn the rules and use the rebates, not regret them.

What Is a Loss Rebate?

A loss rebate, which is also called a cashback or loss-back bonus, is a promo where a casino or sportsbook agrees to refund a portion of your losses over a specified period. It’s a way to “lose back” money you just lost. Rebates take many forms, from a percentage of weekly losses to a 100% refund on your first day. The main feature is that the bonus only kicks in if you lose money.

Some casinos promise players, “If you’re down after 24 hours, we’ll give you back 100% of your net losses up to $1,000 in site credit.” FanDuel Casino has exactly this: any net loss on your first day is refunded as a casino bonus up to $1,000. Another common form is risk-free bets in sportsbooks: BetMGM gives new users a “First Bet” insurance, so if your first wager loses, you get the stake back as bonus credits (up to $1,500).

A loss rebate is like partial insurance on your play. You never get money back on a winning bet (that would just be a normal win!), but when the odds go against you, the site gives you back a portion. It could be 100% of one day’s losses, or a smaller percentage (say 5-20%) of losses over a week. The refunded amount is not cash given to you; it comes as site credit or “bonus bets” that have to be wagered before you can withdraw. It sounds like free money, but in practice, it’s a conditional bonus.

Loss rebate = “insurance” on your play. You lose, you get some back. But don’t confuse it with a gift! The platforms hope that the rebate keeps you betting for longer. It pushes you to keep playing or locks you into more wagering, ergo playing right into their hands.

Types of Loss Rebates

Online casinos and sportsbooks all use loss rebates in different ways. They come in several basic flavors, and each with its own rules. The following are the most common types of rebate promotions you’ll encounter:

How Do They Work?

• Calculation: Based on net losses during the specified period.
• Crediting: Typically awarded as bonus funds with wagering requirements.
• Eligibility: May require a minimum loss amount to qualify.

• BetMGM Rewards: Players earn points on bets, which can be redeemed for bonuses, free spins, and luxury perks like trips to Las Vegas.
• Caesars Rewards: Offers tier and reward credits across 60+ properties and online platforms, and are redeemable for free play, hotel stays, and dining.
• Unibet’s Rakeback System: Valid for both sports betting and casino, allowing players to ‘rake’ back between 10% and 51% of wagered stakes. This VIP program is invite-only, and it’s based on activity levels.

How It Works:

• Tiered Structure: Higher tiers offer better cashback percentages and additional perks.
• Eligibility: Typically based on wagering activity and may be by invitation.
• Additional Benefits: May include personal account managers, faster withdrawals, and exclusive event invitations.

• FanDuel Casino: Offers up to $1,000 back in casino bonus on any first-day net loss. The bonus funds are subject to a 1x wagering requirement.
• Golden Nugget Online Casino: Provides a lossback offer where players get a percentage of their net losses back, and it’s credited in casino credits or bonus funds at the end of the promotional period.

How One-Time Welcome Loss Rebates Work:

• Duration: Typically valid for the first 24 hours or initial play session.
• Crediting: Refunds are usually in the form of bonus funds with specific wagering requirements.
• Purpose: Designed to attract new players by decreasing the risk of initial losses.

Why Casinos Offer Loss Rebates

From the casino’s perspective, rebates are a really clever marketing tool and retention strategy, and serve both business and psychological purposes.

8 Hidden Risks: How Players Get Burned

Rebates look friendly and harmless, but they come with a lot of strings that can leave you worse off if you’re not careful. Now it’s time to see all of the  “gotchas” that can get an unwary player!

How to Use Loss Rebates the Smart Way

Loss rebates can take the yikes out of a bad session, but only if you use them with discipline. Below are ten actionable ways to take advantage of the offers without falling victim to the traps that usually come with them!

Conclusion: Don’t Let a Rebate Become a Regret

Loss rebates sound really good on paper, and don’t set us wrong, they can be useful! But they are in no way a get-out-of-jail-free card. They won’t erase bad bets or undo tilt. If you use them as a tool and not as a solution, they can help stretch your bankroll out and take some of the “ouch” out of a bad day.

Just keep your expectations in check! Read the terms. Don’t chase losses hoping to “make the most” of the offer. And most importantly? Always stay within your limits. Rebates are built to keep you playing, and that’s fine. But make sure that you are playing on your terms, not on theirs.

Look below for a quick refresher on loss rebates: 

• Loss rebates can soften a bad run, but they’re not a safety net that you should depend on!
• Always read the fine print, as almost all of them come with a lot of strings attached.
• Only use rebates as part of a structured and intentional betting plan.
• If you remain disciplined, they can add value without pulling you off track.

LSU vs. Arkansas Prediction (June 14, 2025) – Men’s College World Series

LSU and Arkansas meet Saturday night in a game that looks more like it’s a semifinal than an opener! Arkansas comes in at 48–13 with the highest team batting average in the field and a roster that hasn’t dropped one postseason game.

LSU is 48–15 and brings one of the strongest starting staffs in Omaha. They’re led by Kade Anderson, who is a likely top-3 pick with 163 strikeouts in 103 innings.

There’s no easing into the bracket with this game;  one program gets a chance to be in control. The other? They end up in the loser’s bracket after a single game. No pressure or anything!

Keep scrolling to see all you need to know about this matchup, including team stats, how the pitchers compare, betting odds, and our picks for the best bets!

Game Details

• Matchup: LSU Tigers vs. Arkansas Razorbacks
• Date & Time: Saturday, June 14, at 7 p.m. ET
• Location: Charles Schwab Field, Omaha
• Broadcast: ESPN primetime coverage, SEC rivals headline opening night
• Format: Double-elimination bracket, winner gets strategic advantage

Team Snapshot

Arkansas hasn’t trailed in a postseason game and keeps producing at the plate without giving up much of anything defensively. LSU relies on high-strikeout arms and extra-base power to shift game outcomes. The teams have different styles but the same endgame, and here’s how they match up!

Arkansas Razorbacks (48–13)

LSU Tigers (48–15)

Pitching Matchup

LSU has the more explosive starter; Kade Anderson struck out 12 over seven scoreless innings in the Super Regional and hasn’t allowed more than two earned runs in a start since mid-May. Arkansas is expected to counter with Zach Root, who gave up three runs across 5.1 innings in his last outing and hasn’t pitched into the seventh since April. If he falters in the first few innings, Arkansas will probably go to the bullpen by the fourth.

LSU Projected Starter: Kade Anderson (10–1, 3.51 ERA)

Anderson is on regular rest after throwing seven innings with 12 strikeouts and no walks in the Super Regional. He leads all remaining starters in strikeouts and has allowed only two earned runs over his last three outings. If LSU holds him, Anthony Eyanson (11–2, 2.74 ERA) is the likely Game 1 option; he’s more contact-heavy but tough to square up.

Arkansas Projected Starter: Zach Root (8–5, ~3.60 ERA)

Root doesn’t overpower hitters but locates well and changes speeds. He’s gone at least five innings in all of his last four starts. Arkansas may also use multiple relievers; seven different pitchers have logged postseason innings, and they’ve allowed only five total runs in those five games.

Key Storylines

These two have seen each other before, so they know what’s coming. The starters, depth, game management, and late-inning execution all play a part.

• Season Series: LSU took 2 of 3 from Arkansas in March, including a 9–2 win in Game 3. Anderson pitched five shutout innings in that series.
• Postseason Form: Arkansas is 5–0 this postseason and has allowed just six total runs. LSU has scored 38 over its last five games and hit nine home runs during that stretch.
• Bullpen Usage: Arkansas has used seven different relievers in the postseason, with none throwing more than 3.1 innings. LSU’s bullpen has covered 17.2 innings over five games with a 1.52 ERA, most of that behind Eyanson and two late-game arms.

Betting Odds

Pricing is tight! There is very little separation between sides, and the books aren’t leaning heavily one way or the other, and the totals suggest a moderate scoring range. Here are the latest odds and lines according to ESPN BET:

Any late shift will likely come down to confirmed starters. As of now, it looks like it is one of the most evenly matched games on the Day 1 slate.

Best Bets

Ready for what we are looking at in terms of value? Look below for our two best bets and a prop!

Our Prediction & Final Thoughts

Final Score Prediction: LSU 5, Arkansas 4

LSU gets five solid innings from Anderson, scratches across a run in the seventh, and closes it out with two clean relief frames. Arkansas puts runners on late but can’t break through.

Arkansas has looked really good in the postseason, but they haven’t had to deal with an arm like Anderson. LSU has already beaten them twice this year and comes in with a better rotation setup for a game like this; they have clear roles, defined matchups, and more swing-and-miss potential.

Arkansas brings better contact numbers, but LSU can change a game with a single at-bat. If Anderson gives them a strong five or six, and Eyanson gets the ball after that? It’s a formula that’s worked across multiple elimination games.

This probably won’t be a runaway win. But if it turns into a bullpen game? LSU definitely has the arms to end it.

New England Revolution vs. FC Cincinnati Prediction (June 14, 2025)

Cincinnati heads to Gillette Stadium with the best road record in MLS: five wins in their last six away matches and only four goals allowed in that span. They’ve been really well-organized without the ball and clinical when chances open up.

Their opponents? New England is at the bottom of the Eastern Conference and hasn’t scored more than once in a match since the middle of May.

Carles Gil has been off rhythm, and the front line has been misfiring, so New England’s been relying on set pieces and low-percentage shots. And Cincinnati’s defensive structure doesn’t leave very much room for those tactics to amount to anything.

The Revolution has picked up points in four of their last five home matches against Cincinnati, so if they manage to slow down the flanks and keep Cincinnati from stretching the field, they at least have a shot at keeping it close!

Keep scrolling for all the info on this soccer match, betting odds, and what we think are the best bets for New England Revolution vs. FC Cincinnati.

Match Essentials

• Fixture: New England Revolution (Home) vs. FC Cincinnati (Away)
• Date & Time: Saturday, June 14, at 7:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
• Competition: MLS regular season
• Weather: Possible showers, high ~67°F, low ~52°F
• Broadcast: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV + radio details

Recent Form & Head‑to‑Head

Here’s a read on how both teams are trending going into Saturday’s game and what their recent matchups tell us!

• New England Revolution: 2 wins in last 6; scored 8, conceded 11 during that stretch
• FC Cincinnati: Unbeaten in last 5 overall; 2–0–1 record at home this season
• Head-to-Head: New England leads all-time series 6–3–3
• Recent Matchups: Cincinnati has earned points in 3 of their last 4 visits to Gillette Stadium
• Trend to Watch: Both teams have scored in 7 of the last 9 meetings

Team News & Tactics

One of these teams is still trying to patch up holes, and the other knows how it wants to play. Below is how New England and Cincinnati are lining up tactically.

Tactical Match‑up

• Midfield control: Gil and Yueill will try to slow things down and control the ball, but Cincinnati’s pairing of Evander and Orellano is super aggressive; they move the ball forward fast and aren’t afraid to take risks through the middle.
• Defensive impact: Ivačič has kept New England in games with smart positioning and good reads. On the other side, Miles Robinson has been stepping into passing lanes and cutting off wide service before it turns into problems.

Betting Outlook

Hey, soccer fans! If you’re betting on this one, here are the latest odds and lines courtesy of FanDuel:

• Moneyline: Revolution –122, Cincinnati +102 
• Total Goals: Around 3 (Over/Under ~2.5–3.0) 

Stat‑Driven Angles

• New England’s lack of finishing: Only 18.3 expected goals this season, which is the worst in MLS 
• Defensive clean sheets: Six shutouts in 13 games, meaning that they’ve prevented goals 46.7% of the time

Our Best Bets

We are looking at three pretty good angles in terms of best bets:

X‑Factor Players

Watch this space; Gil drives the attack, and Robinson shuts it down. How they play will affect how the match goes! 

Carles Gil (New England Revolution)

• Gil leads the team with 2.5 chances created per game, ranking first in MLS for this metric.
• His season stat line: 6 goals and 4 assists in 15 matches; good for 0.53 goal contributions per 90 and top‑25 % in npxG‑per‑90 league‑wide.
• In May’s second half, he hit a new personal best with 11 chances created, showing his ability to produce when the pressure’s on.

Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati)

• Robinson has 33 MLS appearances for Cincinnati since joining last season, and he’s been pivotal in defensive and aerial battles.
• His USMNT record includes 15 (or 27 according to some reports) senior caps and scoring the winning goal in the 2021 Gold Cup final.
• He ranks second in MLS in duel success rate (≈67 %) with Atlanta before joining FC Cincinnati; Robinson is a rock in the back line who’s capable of turning defense into attack.

Revolution vs. FC Cincinnati: Our Prediction

Final Score Prediction: FC Cincinnati 2 – 1 New England Revolution

The Revolution can’t seem to find a groove even on their home pitch, and they’re not creating enough to stay competitive. Cincinnati doesn’t overextend; they pick their spots, move the ball well, and finish off with control. If this one slows down in the second half, Cincinnati’s midfield should take over.

Rain is expected, so the ball will move faster on the ground, and footing could be trickier. That favors the side with better spacing and fewer mistakes in transition, and that’s Cincinnati.

• Best value bet: FC Cincinnati ML
• Highest confidence pick: Both Teams to Score

If this is a game you’re looking to place a wager on, be sure to check out our recommended soccer betting apps for an easy and convenient way to get your bets in.

St. Louis CITY FC vs. LA Galaxy Prediction & Best Bets (June 14, 2025)

The Galaxy haven’t picked up a single win on the road all year, and CITYPARK isn’t the place where teams can remedy that hole.

St. Louis hammered LA 3–0 back in March and has had their number since they joined the league. The crowd will be loud, the afternoon will be muggy, and LA’s defensive issues aren’t going anywhere, so we don’t think they’ll snap out of their slump here.

This game does have goal potential, but St. Louis knows how to take advantage of a wobbly back line, and the Galaxy’s is among the worst in the West. That sounds way harsh, but it’s the truth.

Look below for everything you need to know about this one, including betting odds, team stats and history, and what we feel are the best bets!

Match Overview

• Fixture: St. Louis CITY FC vs. LA Galaxy
• Date & Time: Saturday, June 14, 3:30 p.m. local (4:30 p.m. ET)
• Location: CITYPARK, St. Louis, MO
• Competition: MLS regular season
• Weather: Warm and muggy; around 82 °F (28 °C), with scattered showers or thunderstorms possible in the late afternoon
• Atmosphere & Broadcast: CITYPARK will be loud and packed with fans. The match is streaming on MLS Season Pass (Apple TV), FOX, and FOX Deportes. English radio commentary airs on KYKY Y98.1 FM; Spanish on KXOK 102.9 FM 

Head‑to‑Head & Historical Context

St. Louis hasn’t lost to LA in any of their five meetings (two wins, three draws) and they’ve outscored the Galaxy 11–7 during the stretch. That includes a 3–0 result in March where LA couldn’t keep up with CITY’s high press or finish the few looks that they managed to create.

Here’s a recent pattern breakdown:

• Over 1.5 goals in every matchup
• 4 of the last 5 cleared 2.5
• Both sides found the net in 4 of 5

LA regularly gives up chances, and St. Louis has shown that they can turn those into goals when they’re the ones setting the pace. And even when LA hasn’t played well, they’ve still managed to get on the board.

Current Form

Betting Odds & Stats

If you are putting some money on this matchup, here are the latest odds and lines from ESPN BET:

• Moneyline: St. Louis +100, Draw +260, LA Galaxy +240 
• Over 2.5 goals: Hit in 80% of head-to-heads, with betting odds around 1.70 (~58.8% implied probability)
• Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Same 80% success rate in past meetings

Clean Sheet Chances

• St. Louis kept a home clean sheet in ~38% of matches this season 
• LA has failed to keep a single away clean sheet in nine road games

Best Bets & Confidence

What do we think are the best bets for this game? Look below for the three that we are most confident about!

Prediction Recap: Where the Value Sits

Final Score Prediction: St. Louis City FC 3 – 1 LA Galaxy

St. Louis has the advantage at home, and with LA’s midfield stretched and their back line being so unreliable? The matchup lines up well for the hosts to dictate the tempo and find the net first!

St. Louis has handled LA Galaxy really well in every meeting so far, and their home track record makes the moneyline worth backing again. The Galaxy haven’t solved their road issues, and being without a key playmaker like Riqui Puig limits their ability to control possession or generate quality chances.

Head-to-head history points to a match with goals; Over 2.5 and BTTS both make sense based on how the teams compare. And with high humidity in the forecast and possible showers? Set pieces or second-ball finishes could decide this one!

Panthers vs. Oilers Game 5 Preview & Prediction (June 14, 2025)

Game 4 in the Stanley Cup Finals was incredible and had us on the edge of our collective couches. Just when we thought the Oilers had it? Sam Reinhart scored for the Panthers with 19.5 seconds left, tying it up at 4-4. The goal forced the game into OT.

We weren’t the only ones biting our fingernails; Taylor Swift and her BF Travis Kelce were in the house watching this anxiety-inducing ice battle, although we don’t know who they were rooting for.

Ok, back to the important stuff! With 8:42 left in OT, Leon Draisaitl clapped in the game-winner. The final score? 5-4, and the Oilers are headed home with the series tied up at 2-2 for Game 5.

It was truly an epic win for the Oilers after the way they played in Game 3. We won’t have any cuticles left if this is how the next game plays out, so buckle up! Who do we think will pull ahead? What are the odds and lines? And what do we think are the best bets? We’ve got all that and more below!

Game Details & Where to Watch

• Matchup: Florida Panthers vs. Edmonton Oilers
• Series Status: – Tied 2–2 after Edmonton’s 5–4 OT win in Game 4
• Date & Time: Saturday, June 14, at 8:00 p.m. ET 
• Location: Rogers Place, Edmonton (Oilers’ home ice)
• Broadcast: TNT, truTV, Max (also SN, CBC, TVAS in Canada)

Main Storylines

Game 4 changed everything. The series is now tied, so any momentum has been reset. Here’s what’s driving the matchup as the series goes back to Edmonton!

Oilers Made History and They Know It

Game 4 wasn’t only an amazing comeback; it put Edmonton in the record books. They’re the first team in 106 years to erase a 3-goal deficit on the road in the Final and win. That kind of result changes the balance in a series. Calvin Pickard came in cold, and he’s now 7–0 in relief this postseason. That gives Edmonton flexibility in net, which is something that they didn’t have a month ago.

Florida’s Built for This

The Panthers aren’t fazed. They’ve won playoff series after falling behind, and they’ve done it in far worse spots. This is their third consecutive Final appearance. Bobrovsky has a .912 save rate and steady rebound control; he’s kept them from falling apart when coverage breaks down.

Oilers Favored at Home, and the Books Are Backing It

Edmonton opened around –120 on the moneyline, total at 6.5. They’re getting the heavier side of the handle; over 75% of the money is coming in on them for the series. Playing at Rogers Place is important here! The Oilers are scoring over four goals per game at home in the playoffs, and their top skaters see more open ice in games.

Matchup to Watch: Florida’s Pressure vs. Edmonton’s Speed

The Panthers push really hard below the goal line and exploit slow breakouts. Their cycle game forces longer shifts and makes it really hard to cleanly change lines. The Oilers rely on speed through the neutral zone; McDavid, Draisaitl, and Bouchard all do their best when the puck’s moving quickly. If Edmonton’s defense can get it up ice with control, they’ll get chances. If not, Florida will bury them with zone time and volume.

Player Watch & X‑Factors

Here is who we’ll have our eyes on in Game 5:

• Leon Draisaitl: He’s scored four overtime goals this postseason, including the Game 4 winner at 11:18 of the extra frame. In close games that go past regulation, no one’s been more lethal.
• Connor McDavid: He has only one goal in four games in the Final and was held without a shot in the first two periods of Game 4. If Edmonton wants to pull away? McDavid needs to generate more looks through the neutral zone.
• Sergei Bobrovsky: He gave up five goals on 32 shots in Game 4 and looked beatable high glove side. If Florida wants to control Game 5, Bobrovsky has to control the crease; Edmonton averages over 15 shot attempts in first periods at home this postseason.

Game 5 Betting Odds

Betting on this one? Here are the latest odds via FanDuel:

• Moneyline: The Oilers are slight favorites at home (~55% implied win rate) 
• Spread: Market prices Panthers to cover the spread
• Total: Slight lean toward the Under  

Quick Analysis

• Oilers at –122 gives them about a 54.5% implied chance to win on home ice; it’s a modest edge, not a massacre.
• Panthers +1.5 at –245 shows oddsmakers are expecting a close finish, likely another one-goal margin.
• Under 6.5 at –122 signals low-scoring expectations; books are factoring in tightened systems, fewer clean looks, and strong goaltending for both.

Best Bets

Game 5 lines are really tight, but there are still a few angles that we think look decent! Here are our best bets:

Why Game 5 Could Decide the Cup

Final Score Prediction: Edmonton Oilers 3 – Florida Panthers 2 (Final/Regulation)

Florida will press hard below the goal line and test Edmonton’s breakouts. But if McDavid and Draisaitl get even a couple of clean rushes? That’s all it takes in a building where they’ve averaged 4.2 goals per game this postseason!

Game 4 changed it all. And not just the scoreline, but the entire dynamic. Edmonton pulled off something that no team had done in 106 years, and now they go home with the series tied and the momentum in their favor.

But Florida will not lie down or roll over. They’ve been in much deeper waters in past postseasons and still have the better bench and the better goalie in Bobrovsky. The difference this time? Home ice, and the way Edmonton’s top line performs in that building.

We’re betting on a close game with less high-danger chances, and a finish that is more structured and not as chaotic as Game 4. If it plays out that way, the advantage goes to the Oilers if Draisaitl keeps playing the way he has been.

There’ll be a goaltending battle between Pickard and Bobrovsky. The winner of this one will not only take the lead, but they might also take the Cup!

Giants vs. Dodgers Prediction & Betting Preview (June 13, 2025)

The Dodgers are 24–9 at home going into today’s game, and Yamamoto will be on the mound! He’s posted a 1.73 ERA over his last five starts with 34 strikeouts and only four walks. He’s been pretty much untouchable at Dodger Stadium.

The Giants have lost 6 of their last 9, and their offense has cratered; they’re averaging under 3.5 runs per game. Oof.

They’ll counter with Keaton Winn, who’s pitched in back-to-back outings and has barely been able to get past the fifth inning. Against the Dodgers hitters? That might be a mistake.

There’s nothing remotely even about this matchup, and we aren’t the only ones who see it. But there are still some good betting angles! And we’ll tell you what our best bets are, along with a couple of decent props!

Game Snapshot

• Matchup: San Francisco Giants at Los Angeles Dodgers
• Date & Time: Friday, June 13, 10:10 pm ET
• Location: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
• How to Watch: MLB Network / Streaming
• Weather Forecast: 73°F, clear skies

Latest Betting Odds

Look below for the latest odds and lines courtesy of BetMGM:

Best Bets & Props

What are we looking at for best bets and props? Here are our four picks!

Our AI’s Prediction

• “Dodgers 4 – Giants 2. Yamamoto pitches 7 strong with 8 strikeouts. Game trends under. Dodgers cover early, but late runs stay tight.”
• AI Top Pick: Yamamoto Over 6.5 Ks

Final Thoughts & Prediction

Our Score Prediction: Dodgers 4, Giants 2

You don’t have to overthink this one; it leans hard one way, and the price still leaves room to play it!

The Dodgers have the advantage across the board: home form, starting pitching, and lineup stability. Yamamoto’s been lights out, and San Fran hasn’t shown anything near enough at the plate to trust them in this spot. The total does feel low, but since both starters are capable of logging six-plus and limiting hits? The Under has some value.

The best angle? Dodgers on the moneyline, with Yamamoto strikeout props that are well worth targeting for a higher payout!

New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox Prediction & Top Bets (June 13, 2025)

Yankees vs. Red Sox. Fenway Park. Friday night. If that sentence alone doesn’t make you hear angry Bahhstan and hard New York Brooklyn accents and the sound of a ball clanging off the Green Monster wall in left field (hit by Aaron Judge, obvi), you either don’t watch baseball or you’re dead inside.

New York is sitting pretty on top of the AL East, Judge is hitting the crap out of pretty much every ball he’s pitched, and they’ve been whooping teams in the last month. Boston hasn’t been having the season that the Yanks are having; BUT they’ve taken a few from the Yankees, so this one won’t be a formality.

We’ve got two southpaws on the mound: Garrett Crochet for the Sox and Ryan Yarbrough for the Yankees. It could be a pitch-to-standoff contest or batting practice. It all depends on which version of the pitchers show up.

It’s a long-standing rivalry, and it’ll be a good game. But who’s gonna win? What are the betting lines? And which bets make the most sense? We gotchu covered, so keep reading!

Game Details: Yankees vs. Red Sox

• Matchup: Yankees (42–25) vs. Red Sox (34–36)
• Date & Time: Friday, June 13; at 7:10 pm ET
• Location: Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts
• How to Watch: ESPN, MLB.tv, YES Network (local), NESN (local)
• Weather Forecast: Clear skies, 74°F at first pitch, light winds. It’s the best baseball weather!

Series & Season Context

Boston took two of three when the teams met earlier this month, putting up 10 and 11 runs in back-to-back wins. The Yankees’ pitching staff didn’t look great, and the bullpen didn’t help much.

That being said, it didn’t really change the standings. New York is still on top of the AL East at 41–25. Boston’s nine games back at 34–36 in fourth place and looking like a .500 team that doesn’t know what it wants to be when it grows up.

Boston hit New York hard once, and now they get them at Fenway. We’ll see if that holds up, or if the Yankees play like they’re just there to rub in what the standings are.

Betting Odds

According to FanDuel, here are the odds and lines (as of June 13) for the game.

Probable Pitchers & Matchup Analytics

• Yankees: Ryan Yarbrough (LHP): 3–1, 4.17 ERA, 1.15 WHIP in 45.1 IP
• Red Sox: Garrett Crochet (LHP): 6–4, 2.35 ERA, 110 K across 88 IP
• ESPN model: Boston win probability at 63%

Crochet’s strikeout rate gives Boston the pitching advantage; Yarbrough pitches to contact, and Fenway doesn’t reward that.

Main Storylines to Watch

There’s some drama in this plot: great batting, a rematch on the mound, and a lineup that’s missing one of its usual anchors. This is what we’re watching:

• Crochet vs. Judge, The Sequel: Garrett Crochet got Judge out three times in Boston’s 10–7 win earlier this month. That’s rare indeed. Judge is hitting .392 with 25 home runs and leads the league in slugging. If Crochet can hold him again? That changes the game.
• Yarbrough’s control in a hitter’s park: He allowed seven hits in his last start against Boston, and Fenway doesn’t leave a lot of room for soft contact to survive. Yarbrough has to keep the ball down and avoid long innings, which is something he hasn’t always managed to do against this lineup.
• Middle-of-the-order damage potential: Judge and Devers are both driving in runs at a high rate. Judge sits at 59 RBI, and Devers is nipping at his heels at 57. If either gets pitches to hit with men on, the game can change in a single inning.
• No Bregman for Boston: Boston’s lineup loses a right-handed bat with Bregman still out (quad), which means there’ll be less balance against Yarbrough and more pressure on Devers to produce against a lefty.

Our Best Bets

If you’re betting this one, it lines up better for Boston than the books are giving it credit for. Here’s what we think are the five best bets!

This is the spot to fade the public’s love for the Yankees and ride with Boston. Crochet’s pitching with command, and this matchup leans toward a lower-scoring game with fewer big innings. Judge and Devers will probably trade blows, but the arms should keep things in check.

You can get any of the above picks now at one of the best online sportsbooks!

Yankees vs. Red Sox: Our Final Call

Final Score Prediction: Red Sox 4, Yankees 2

Crochet has the advantage against a Yankees lineup that’s been striking out at a high rate. Judge is always the biggest concern, but Boston handled him pretty well in their last meeting. 

If Crochet can get through five or six without giving up much? Boston’s bullpen is solid enough to hold the line. New York has been putting up runs, but this matchup could slow that down. Boston’s in a pretty good position to take this one at home!

Thunder vs. Pacers Game 4 Prediction & Preview (June 13, 2025)

The Pacers are up 2-1 in the NBA Finals after beating OKC in Game 3 at home. The final score? 116-107. Not a blowout, but a win is a win, and now they’re in the lead.

The Thunder had a 5 point lead going into the fourth period, but Indiana pulled away when their offense kicked into high gear. Haliburton made a 3-pointer, which put the Pacers up 101-98. Turner got a layup, Toppin made a sick putback dunk over OKC’s Dort, and the Thunder never recovered.

Next up? Game 4 on the Pacers’ home court in Indy. Will they even it up to 2-2? Or will the Pacers take it at home and make it 3-1? Sure hope neither team is superstitious—the matchup is on Friday the 13th.

Keep reading to find out what we think, stats, betting odds, and, of course, our best bets for the game!

Game Details

• Matchup: Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers
• Series Status: Indiana Leads 2-1
• Date & Time: Friday, June 13, at 8:30 pm ET
• Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
• Broadcast: ABC and streaming on ESPN App, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV

Series Snapshot

Here’s how it’s gone down so far:

• The Pacers lead the series 2–1 after a 116–107 win in Game 3 at home.
• The Thunder were up by 5 going into the fourth, but Indiana came back with an insane run led by Haliburton and Mathurin.
• Bennedict Mathurin dropped 27 off the bench and gave Indiana a huge boost when the game shifted.
• OKC turned it over 17 times and shot 35% in the fourth; they couldn’t keep up once Indiana pulled ahead.
• Game 4 stays in Indy, and the pressure’s on the Thunder to avoid going down 3–1.

Main Matchups to Watch

Indiana got the lead in Game 3 by throwing SGA totally off track and Haliburton being on point. The following are the two spots that everyone will be watching:

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Indiana’s pressure: SGA is putting up close to 36 points per game in the Finals, but the Pacers started flashing backcourt traps late in Game 3, and it worked. Shawn Marion even called for Indiana to double him earlier and more often. Expect more bodies thrown at him and quicker help rotations to force the ball out of his hands.
• Tyrese Haliburton’s control vs. OKC’s perimeter defense: Haliburton hit the game-winner in Game 1, turned the ball over five times in Game 2, and came back looking good in Game 3. If Dort and Wallace speed him up again? Indiana’s offense could get stuck.

Supporting Cast

• Chet Holmgren (Thunder): His scoring hasn’t dropped off, but the rebounding numbers sure have. He’s hit the under on his boards prop in all three Finals games so far. If OKC’s bigs don’t control the glass, Indiana’s second-chance looks will be a problem.
• Jalen Williams (Thunder): Williams has been steady; 26 points in Game 3 and is averaging over 20 in the series. He’s looked more comfortable attacking early in the clock and could be the difference if Indiana keeps blitzing SGA.
• Bennedict Mathurin (Pacers): Came off the bench and dropped 27 in Game 3. He’s been Indiana’s best scoring option outside the starters and gives them a serious advantage if OKC’s second unit can’t match his pace.

Betting Odds & Trends

If you’re gonna bet on Game 4, then you should know what’s what! Here are the latest odds and lines via DraftKings:

ATS Records

• Thunder: 54–26–2 straight up and against the spread (ATS)
• Pacers: 37–43–2 SU/ATS

Scoring Momentum

• OKC Over the total ~59% of home games
• League average sits ~53% on totals; OKC’s higher number signals trust in their offense

Best Bets for Game 4

And here are the two best that we think look good for Game 4:

Thunder vs. Pacers Game 4 Prediction: Where the Value Lies

Look, we were off on Game 3, we know that and own it. We are only human! We thought OKC would carry over what worked in Game 2, but Indiana’s bench lit up out of nowhere. Mathurin dropped 27, the Pacers hit almost half of their shots from deep, and they dictated the pace from the minute the game started.

But Game 4? It isn’t the same setup.

The Thunder have bounced back from losses all year without slipping into back-to-back trouble. We think we’ll see shorter rotations, traps on Haliburton before he can get into motion, and way more discipline to stop Indiana’s early offense.

OKC still has the stronger shot creators and more perimeter coverage; they just didn’t finish it last time.

Final Score Prediction: Thunder 117, Pacers 108

Thunder cover the –6, and the Over stays in play! They tie it up 2-2 before going back to OKC.

Behind the Scenes: How Sportsbooks Use AI to Set Odds

Betting lines are not static—they never have been and never will be. They change throughout the day—sometimes within seconds of a lineup change, and others after a rush of action hits the board.

What’s behind the changes isn’t only a team of human beings anymore. The humans are still there, but they’re getting help from AI in the decision-making process.

Almost all major sportsbooks are now relying on AI to process the massive amounts of data, track market activity, and fine-tune odds in real time. The systems get historical stats, scan for news on injuries, weather updates, and clock social media sentiment to update pricing, and it does it faster than the humans.

How does it work? How are sportsbooks using AI to set and adjust odds, what tools are they using, and why are lines more methodical? And are they getting harder to beat? Where does human judgment fit into the picture, and what does the future of AI-powered betting look like? Let’s tackle the robots and pray they don’t become sentient.

Traditional Oddsmaking vs. AI-Powered Models

Before sportsbooks began to integrate AI, odds were set by teams of traders and analysts, aka oddsmakers. They looked at stats, historical matchups, injuries, weather, and betting trends. A lot of it came down to experience, and people who knew the sport and the market were setting a number that they thought was fair, and then adjusting it based on how bettors reacted.

And while this approach still works, it does have its limits. It’s slower. It depends solely on a small group of people spotting patterns and reacting in real time. And when hundreds of games are happening across different sports? It’s almost impossible to keep up.

AI changed this. With modern machine learning models, sportsbooks are now able to process data from thousands of games, players, and betting markets at the same time. The system can update odds automatically based on real-time inputs, like injury news, sharp action, or an influx of betting volume.

Most sportsbooks use a mix of people and artificial intelligence. AI is in charge of the fast updates and constant number crunching, and the human oddsmakers still are in charge of judgment calls, especially on big sports events or unusual markets. One isn’t replacing the other; it’s a combined effort of both to cover more ground, faster and more accurately.

The Core AI Tools Sportsbooks Use

The main AI tools handle three big jobs: collecting data, running simulations, and reacting to betting activity. 

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How The AI Tools Work

• Data Ingestion Pipelines: Pull in live data from games, news, injuries, weather, and bets to feed the AI models.
• Algorithmic Simulations: Run thousands of simulated game outcomes based on real-time inputs to help price bets.
• Market Reaction Analysis: Monitor how bettors and other sportsbooks move, and then adjust lines to limit their risk.

Real-Time Line Adjustments: How AI Reacts to Market Behavior

The moment that betting money starts leaning too far one way, sportsbooks aren’t sitting on their hands (the humans have hands, AI does not). The handless AI gets to work. It’s constantly scanning the flow of wagers and looking for patterns, like who’s betting, how much, and how fast lines are moving elsewhere.

If an influx of bets hits the spread for one team, odds can tighten or change in seconds, and it’s not because someone panicked, but because the system is programmed to limit all risk. The goal? Balance the action on both sides so the house doesn’t get caught paying out too much, no matter who wins.

You can see this play out on NFL Sundays during football season. If social media gets wind of a leak that a starting QB tweaked something in warmups? Sportsbooks that use AI aren’t waiting around for an official report. They’ll have already adjusted the odds based on bettor behavior and early movement, sometimes before fans have a chance to refresh their app.

Public vs. Sharp Money Detection

Sportsbooks don’t only care who’s betting—they care how they’re betting. And AI is the tool that they use to figure that out.

• If someone makes a large bet right when the line opens, or keeps hitting numbers that move in their favor, AI clocks it. It then starts to build a profile: this bettor knows what they’re doing. Once a few of those bets land, the odds usually don’t stay put for long.
• Compare that to a flood of casual bets; smaller ones that are made right before kickoff, and usually on the favorite. AI sees those too, but treats them way differently. The system doesn’t freak out, it just tweaks the line enough to stay ahead without overcorrecting.

This is how closing lines get sharper! They react more to informed bets than emotional ones. The goal is to protect the book from getting hit by people who know what they’re doing. And now, AI has the ability to make that separation faster than any human team ever could.

AI and Risk Management

Sportsbooks use AI to keep risk in check from the time a line goes live. How? By crunching incoming bets, comparing them to existing exposure, and adjusting the odds if things start veering too far in one direction.

It’s an around-the-clock team that’s scanning for anything that threatens a sportsbook’s bottom line.

Case Studies: AI in Action

AI is already a main component of how sportsbooks operate, even if most bettors don’t know it! Below are two examples of how it’s used.

FanDuel and DraftKings Use AI for Player Props

At FanDuel and DraftKings, AI is being utilized to adjust prop bets as any and all new info comes in. If a player is dealing with a minor injury or a defensive matchup changes, the systems don’t wait for someone to manually update the lines. They recalculate expected stats, check for betting patterns, and tweak numbers based on how the market’s moving. You’ll see a points total shift or a price change within minutes of a team update, and that’s not a human doing it; it’s the algorithm keeping the books tight.

Live Adjustments On NFL Sundays

NFL Sundays are when the real-time systems get put to work. During pregame warmups, if a player is limping, AI tools scan everything from team sheets to social posts to beat writer blurbs. That triggers line movement instantaneously. It doesn’t wait for a formal report, as it wants to stay ahead of the action before it turns into a liability. Odds shift quickly because the model’s designed to act before large bets come pouring in—it doesn’t want to be caught off balance.

Controversies & Limitations

As scarily powerful as AI is, of course, it has controversies, and there are limitations to what it can do!

The Future of AI in Sportsbooks

Sportsbooks are starting to use AI for more than pricing odds. They’re exploring models that anticipate how bettors are likely to act, like if they are chasing losses, switching markets, or leaning toward certain types of bets. Odds could become more tailored, adjusting to individual preferences and past betting patterns.

Microbetting is another area that’s getting a tech upgrade. AI is able to process in-game stats and player data fast enough to support wagers on things like the next pitch or free throw. That kind of instant betting relies on fast, reliable machine analysis.

And then there’s the rise of generative AI. Some platforms are experimenting with tools that write automated odds breakdowns, explain bets in basic language, or recommend bets in real time based on trends. It’s not only on the backend; AI could soon be helping you choose what you bet on next.

Conclusion: Betting in an AI World: What You Need to Know

Toto? We aren’t in Kansas anymore, and you’re not betting in 2005. Algorithms are reading headlines, scanning social feeds, and reacting to bet slips faster than any human is capable of. It doesn’t mean that you’re outmatched, but it does mean you have to know what you’re up against.

Look below for a quick recap of what we covered:

• AI is constantly adjusting odds that are based on data that you might not see or be aware of.
• News breaks, lines move, and the window for real value doesn’t stay open for long.
• The best bettors use tools that help them move faster and think more critically.

If you want to keep up with AI, you should use AI-powered tools like the one we have here!