Toronto Raptors forward Jontay Porter is facing an NBA investigation after the league discovered betting irregularities surrounding prop bets involving Porter in two games against the Los Angeles Clippers and the Phoenix Suns. Before the game against the Clippers, there was increased betting interest on the under for Porter’s prop bets for points, rebounds, assists, and three-pointers made. Despite averaging 13.8 minutes per game, Porter played only four minutes in the game before re-injuring his eye, causing all his prop bets to hit the under. The situation repeated in the game against the Suns, where Porter had to leave due to illness after three minutes, failing to score and only grabbing two rebounds.
DraftKings Sportsbook reported that Porter’s unders were the biggest money winners for bettors in both games, indicating suspicious betting activity. The NBA does not allow any league employees to bet on league events, including prop betting, and has personnel dedicated to identifying betting irregularities and potential integrity issues. The league can impose fines, suspensions, or even contract terminations for violations related to sports gambling. Porter, who is under a two-way contract with the Raptors, missed a game against the Brooklyn Nets due to personal reasons and his absence in a previous game against the Washington Wizards was also attributed to personal reasons.
Porter’s older brother, Michael Porter Jr., plays for the Denver Nuggets and is a standout forward in the NBA. Jontay Porter has appeared in 26 games for the Toronto Raptors this season, averaging 4.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. The investigation into the betting irregularities involving Porter is ongoing, and neither the Raptors nor the NBA provided immediate comments on the situation. Professional sports leagues have intensified their vigilance against sports betting violations with the rise of legalized sports betting across many states in the country, and the NBA is no exception in enforcing strict rules against gambling by league employees. Fans and bettors alike are closely following the developments in this case to see how it will impact Porter’s future in the NBA.
