Point spreads level the playing field between two teams. The favorite has a negative number (e.g., -5.5), meaning they must win by more than that amount. The underdog has a positive number (e.g., +5.5), meaning they can lose by less than that amount or win outright.

Totals betting involves predicting whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under a set number. For NBA games, this number is typically between 210-240 points depending on the teams involved.

American odds show how much you need to bet to win $100 (negative odds) or how much you'll win on a $100 bet (positive odds). For example, -110 means you bet $110 to win $100. +150 means a $100 bet wins $150.