The first Game 2s of the NBA Conference semifinals could already have a major impact on how they will conclude. Tonight, the Minnesota Timberwolves, having won homecourt advantage already, could take a 2-0 lead against the San Antonio Spurs before heading back for a couple of home stands in Game 3 and Game 4. Meanwhile, out in the East, the Philadelphia 76ers will look to avoid another 2-game deficit against the New York Knicks, having just had to overcome a 3-1 hole against the Boston Celtics. You can find out our expert NBA picks for tonight’s matchups and every game throughout the postseason. But for now, let’s dive into my NBA best bets for Wednesday, May 6.
76ers vs Knicks NBA best bet: Over 215 (-110)
Game 1 of the series between the 76ers and the Knicks followed the same trend that the 4 regular season games between the sides did by going over the combined 215-point mark. That should come as no surprise, as the Knicks have started off this postseason as the hottest shooting three-point team, making 40.2% of their attempts from there.
While they were able to limit the 76ers offensively, do not expect Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid to combine for 6-of-20 shooting in many games. In the regular season, the pair averaged 30 and 32 points against tonight’s opponents, and even one of them bouncing back to form should unlock the 76ers’ offence. Game 1 saw these sides combine for 235 points, and it is hard to see a major drop-off tonight.
Read our full 76ers vs Knicks Game 2 prediction — can Philly bounce back or will New York dominate again?
Timberwolves vs Spurs NBA best bet: Victor Wembanyama over 4.5 blocks (+110)
Victor Wembanyama put together a historic performance for the Spurs in Game 1 against the Timberwolves. He recorded an astonishing 12 blocks. It marked his 3rd straight game of hitting the over on this line, with the Frenchman managing 25 total blocks during that stretch. The Timberwolves are a favorable opponent for him to keep that run going against. They finished the regular season 2nd in opponent block attempts per game. No player in the league is better positioned to turn those attempts into rejections than Wembanyama, considering his massive frame.
With bigs like Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert, who are most effective trying to score in the paint, and a fearless guard in Anthony Edwards looking to attack the rim, expect the Spurs superstar to have every opportunity to influence the game defensively once more.
Lock in our Timberwolves vs Spurs Game 2 best bet — will Minnesota deliver another big upset?
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