The NBA has launched an investigation into Toronto Raptors forward Jontay Porter for suspected betting irregularities, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Porter was removed from the Raptors lineup before their game against the Brooklyn Nets on Monday night, with no clear timeline for his return. The league issued a statement to ESPN, confirming that they are looking into the matter.
Reports indicate that the NBA is specifically examining two games where there was suspicious betting activity surrounding Porter’s prop bets. In January 26th game against the Los Angeles Clippers, Porter played only four minutes before leaving due to an eye injury. Despite this, all of his prop bets hit under, resulting in a lucrative day for bettors through DraftKings Sportsbook. On March 20th in a game against the Phoenix Suns, Porter played just three minutes before being ruled out due to an illness once again, all of his prop bets hit under and attracted significant betting interest through DraftKings Sportsbook. It is worth noting that NBA players and all league employees are strictly prohibited from betting on any NBA games, including prop bets.
Porter is in his first season with the Raptors on a two-way deal and has been averaging 4.4 points and 3.2 rebounds in 26 games so far this season. Prior to joining the Raptors, he made his debut with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2020 but did not play in the league for the past two seasons. If found guilty of any wrongdoing, Porter could face severe penalties including suspension or even expulsion from the league.
