By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
When we think of European talent taking over the NBA, the names Luka Dončić, Nikola Jokić, and Giannis Antetokounmpo come to mind almost instantly. These three have dominated the spotlight, redefining what international players can achieve at the highest level. The latter two of that trio have already gone on to claim the championship, with the Joker leading the Nuggets to glory for the first time in 2023 and the Greek Freak helping the Bucks to their first crown in half a century two years prior.
For Doncic however, he remains uncrowned. Alongside Kyrie Irving, the Slovenian sensation had a blockbuster season last time out as he helped the Mavs to their first Finals appearance since the days of Dirk Nowitzki. Unlike the Dunking Deutschman though, Luka couldn’t help Dallas past a powerhouse. The Celtics ultimately dominated that championship series and FanDuel now makes the champions a +240 favorite to retain their title.
Speaking of the betting giant, they have priced Doncic’s Mavericks as a +1300 contender, clearly thinking that they are in with a shot of repeating their heroics from last term. You can find out more about FanDuel and their bet $5 get $150 promotion with Oddschecker, but before you go on and check the latest futures odds, you should bear in mind that these two European sensations are also on fire this season.
Domantas Sabonis
Lithuanian big man Domantas Sabonis is the core of the Sacramento Kings, and he has firmly established himself as a premier frontcourt player. He led the Californian outfit back to the playoffs in 2023 however, they took a step back last term as they missed out on the postseason for the 17th time in 18 years. Now, the 28-year-old is on a mission to build on that prior playoff appearance, and he is playing like his life depends on it.
Sabonis has been nothing short of spectacular this term, averaging 21.5 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists per game. His knack for orchestrating offense from the high post has elevated Sacramento’s dynamic guard duo, De’Aaron Fox and Keegan Murray, making the Kings a consistent threat against any opposition.
What sets Sabonis apart is his efficiency—ranking among the league leaders in field goal percentage and offensive rebounds. He has already dropped a triple-double on the Denver Nuggets this season, further enforcing his status as one of the league’s premier big men. He will be aiming to continue his impressive streak of form throughout the New Year.
Franz Wagner
At just 23, Franz Wagner has already carved out a key role as the Orlando Magic’s most versatile player. He shone in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games as he helped Germany to the semifinals, and he has set about proving himself as capable at the top level. After a breakout sophomore season, the 6’9” former Alba Berlin forward has returned stronger, helping the Floridian outfit emerge as one of the youngest and most exciting teams in the league.
This season, the talented German is averaging 24.4 points, six rebounds, and seven assists per game while shooting 38% from three-point range. His game-winning performances, like a recent 30-point outburst against the Philadelphia 76ers, demonstrate his ability to step up in clutch moments. Additionally, his ability to run pick-and-rolls and create mismatches on offense has freed up room for teammates like Paolo Banchero to succeed.
Orlando’s improved playoff credentials are due in large part to Wagner’s growth, proving that he’s not just a rising star but someone destined to be a franchise centerpiece. Whether that is in Florida or not for the long run remains to be seen, but the bookies certainly feel like his side is in with a major chance at glory this season. After a 17-11 start to the campaign, the odds makers currently price the Magic as a +5500 outsider, but that price could shorten drastically if Wagner continues in a similar vein.