What Does +2 Spread Mean in NBA Betting?

BetMGM Jan 20, 2025, 7:13 PM

min read

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 17: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after a dunk during the first half of the game against the Toronto Raptors at Fiserv Forum on January 17, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

(Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)

If a team is +2 in NBA betting at BetMGM, they’re an underdog of two points. Their opponent, the favorite, would be -2.

To cover the spread (+2), the underdog must lose by one point or win the game.

To cover the spread (-2), the favorite must win the game by at least three points.

Overtime is included in the final score that determines the spread outcome.

Example of +2 Spread in NBA Betting

Milwaukee Bucks (+2, -110) at Orlando Magic (-2, -110)

The Bucks are the road underdog (+2), and the Magic are the home favorite (-2).

If Milwaukee loses by one point or wins the game, they cover the spread. If Orlando wins by at least three points, they cover.

Here are some score examples:

Bucks 102, Magic 90: The Bucks win by 12 points and cover the spread.

Magic 107, Bucks 100: The Magic win by seven points and cover the spread.

Magic 98, Bucks 96: The Magic win by two points and push.

Payout for +2 Spread in NBA Betting

Denver Nuggets (+2, -110) at Los Angeles Clippers (-2, -110)

The odds beside the spread determine the payout. In this Nuggets-Clippers example, the odds for each spread (+2 and -2) are -110. The odds can vary for games; they could be +115, +100, -105, -110, or another value.

To calculate the potential payout, add a spread bet to your BetMGM Bet Slip.

With -110 odds, a winning bet with a $50 stake would return $95.45 (including stake).

At -105 odds, a winning bet with a $50 stake would return $97.62 (including stake).

If a spread bet pushes, the stake is refunded.

Visit the sportsbook to view all available spreads for NBA games throughout the year. You can also combine spreads — along with moneylines, over/under totals, player prop bets, and more — into parlays to increase the potential payout. And spreads are available with live betting during games.

You can also check updated sportsbook promos for potential Odds Boosts, Parlay Boosts, and more offers to increase the potential payout for your wagers.