Zig-zag (betting)

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Zig-zag betting theory is a commonly held perception that teams off of a loss in the basketball playoffs have a higher propensity to win their next game.

[edit] Background

Since it is a Best of 7 format for the basketball playoffs, teams have to play each other until a team wins 4 total games. If a team loses in the playoffs they have the added motivation to come back in their very next game to even things up. Whereas the team with a win is more unlikely to be able to match the intensity of their opponent.

[edit] Application

Sportsbooks use the zig-zag theory in adjusting the odds on their games. They add a full point to the losing team of the previous game. The zig-zag theory does not apply to the first game of a playoffs series.