For example, if a team is priced at 1.90, does that really mean they have a 52.6% chance of winning? Or is it more about the book trying to spread money evenly so they lock in a profit no matter the result?
It is generally believed that when a team is priced lower in terms of odds, they have a better chance of winning the game. While this is not entirely true, as we do see bigger odds winning smaller odds sometimes. But ordinarily the smaller the odds of a team, the higher their chances in winning that particular game. Also the more people are favouring a particular team to win, the bookie will be adjusting the odds so they don't have to pay much money should the team eventually wins that's why they keep adjusting the odds
It is true, the odds adjustments made by bookmakers are aimed at minimizing their losses in a match. I think the odds displayed are very close to the actual probability, although in reality, no one can guarantee that a match will end according to a prediction. The truth is, odds adjustments can be a good opportunity for bettors who are more confident in placing a bet when the match is about to start or is already in progress.
On the other hand, many bettors will still stick to their predictions and are not influenced by the changes in odds made by the bookmaker. Overall, a change in odds is a normal thing to happen, and bettors should be have their own principles and analysis so they are not easily tempted by odds that tend to changeable throughout the match.