What Does +9 Spread Mean in NBA Betting?

BetMGM Jan 20, 2025, 7:19 PM

min read

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 17: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics reacts after making a three-point basket against the Orlando Magic during the first quarter at the TD Garden on January 17, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)

If a team is +9 in NBA betting at BetMGM, they’re an underdog of nine points. Their opponent, the favorite, would be -9.

To cover the spread (+9), the underdog must lose by eight points or win the game.

To cover the spread (-9), the favorite must win the game by at least 10 points.

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

Example of +9 Spread in NBA Betting

Washington Wizards (+9, -110) at Boston Celtics (-9, -110)

The Wizards are the road underdog (+9), and the Celtics are the home favorite (-9).

If Washington loses by eight points or wins the game, they cover the spread. If Boston wins by at least 10 points, they cover.

Here are some score examples:

Wizards 118, Celtics 113: The Wizards win by five points and cover the spread.

Celtics 131, Wizards 121: The Celtics win by 10 points and cover the spread.

Celtics 110, Wizards 101: The Celtics win by nine points and push.

Payout for +9 Spread in NBA Betting

New Orleans Pelicans (+9, -110) at Los Angeles Lakers (-9, -110)

The odds beside the spread determine the payout. In this Pelicans-Lakers example, the odds for each spread (+9 and -9) 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.