Germantas Kneita
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While there are only 4 games on the NBA slate tonight, there could be playoff implications for those in action. With the Brooklyn Nets in 6th in the Eastern Conference and having lost 4 straight games, they are giving hope to the chasing pack that they could avoid the play-in tournament. Tonight’s result between the Toronto Raptors and the Washington Wizards could influence which of these teams is in that pack. Then later, the battle between the 6th-seed Los Angeles Clippers and 5th-seed Golden State Warriors could help one of these sides distance themselves from the play-in clubs in the west.
But for now, let’s dive straight into my favorite NBA first-basket scorer props for tonight’s games. And do not forget to take a look at the rest of our NBA predictions for tonight’s slate as well.
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Raptors vs Wizards first basket best bet: Bradley Beal (+650)
Kristaps Porzingis looks set to end his 2-game stint on the sidelines as he returns to the Washington Wizards’ lineup following a knee issue. The team has already been gaining the opening possession in 70% of their last 10 games. The return of the 7’3” star should help keep that going here. That is where I expect Bradley Beal to take over. He is coming off a 37-point game in which he attempted 30 field goals against the Atlanta Hawks and should look to stay aggressive against the Toronto Raptors tonight. Tonight’s visitors have gone big recently, with Scottie Barnes playing as one of the guards. It should give Beal a speed advantage that allows him to get into the paint. With the form he showed last night, I am expecting him to convert once he’s in there.
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76ers vs Mavericks first basket best bet: James Harden (+650)
The Philadelphia 76ers are winning the opening tip in 60% of their last 10 games while ranking 9th in defensive rating in the NBA during that stretch. This combination has allowed them to make the game’s opening field goal in 8 of those. With Joel Embiid likely to win the tip against a smaller Dwight Powell, they should be boosted by the first possession tonight too. Look for James Harden to use it to come out aggressive here.
The Mavericks have 2 superstar scorers in the backcourt with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Neither is renowned for their defensive play. With Harden’s ability to get to the rack, I am expecting him to drive to the rim against them, hoping to get them into foul trouble. A more attacking approach from the 76ers guard will give him a great chance of making the game’s first shot.
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