Best NBA player props for Saturday's slate: LaMelo lets it fly

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball
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Germantas Kneita

NBA

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Like most Lithuanians, I started watching basketball from the age of six. I'm based out in London and played basketball at the University of Lincoln here in the UK. I had always had an interest in the NBA but things really took off in the summer of 2010. That year Linas Kleiza led Lithuania to 3rd place at the World Championships and signed with the Toronto Raptors to replace the departing Chris Bosh. I've been a Raptors fan since that day and I've not missed a game since. I've been handicapping games for more than a decade, specializing in player props. For Germantas Kneita media enquiries, please email contact@pickswise.com.
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There are 6 games on the slate tonight in the NBA with a couple of terrific games to look forward to. One of the most exciting might be the game between the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics after the thriller they played earlier this week. I have compiled a 43-29 record at Pickswise on player props this season and I will be hoping to build on that tonight.

You can see our full game previews here, as always. But for now, check out my picks for the action below.

LaMelo Ball over 2.5 made threes (+114)

The Milwaukee Bucks faced off against the Charlotte Hornets for the first time this season more than a month ago, but I doubt they have forgotten what LaMelo Ball was able to do against them. He was able to light them up for 36 points, shooting 8 of 15 from deep in the process. Considering this and the fact that he has averaged over 2.5 made threes in every month this season, this seems like great value. Ball has attempted 9 3-pointers in each of his last 2 games and if he can maintain that here, the over should clear. He has hit 3 or more in 3 of his last 5 games and is currently shooting over 38% from deep on the season.

The Hornets play at the fastest pace in the league whilst the Bucks are 9th in that category which should make this another high scoring game. The speed of this game should ensure plenty of possessions for Ball to get shots up. The Bucks are also happy for teams to try and beat them from beyond the arc as they allow the most 3-point attempts per game. As a result, it is no surprise that they are 29th in opponent 3-pointers made, with only the Hornets themselves allowing more per game. This one is set to be a high scoring showdown, and I do not think Ball will shy away from letting it fly. Back the over on this one.

Be sure to check out our full game preview for Milwaukee Bucks vs Charlotte Hornets.

Omer Yurtseven over 12.5 rebounds (+104)

The injuries to Bam Adebayo and Dewayne Dedmon have given way to perhaps one of the most dominant rebounders in the league this season to break through. Omer Yurtseven has been immense for the Miami Heat on the rebounding front, recording 12 or more rebounds in 10 straight games. At the beginning of that stretch, he was still struggling for minutes, playing in the low 20’s per night. However, he has earned the trust of the coaches and has now played 30 or more in 5 of his last 6 games, with rebounding totals of 15, 14, 13, 16, 17, and 16. It is tough to see that streak ending tonight.

The Phoenix Suns should be a favorable opponent, too. He will see time against Deandre Ayton, who is coming back from a 6-game absence. He is hardly a player that can stretch the floor and pull Yurtseven away from the rim, allowing him to stay in the paint and collect boards. Rust could also be an issue for Ayton and he could struggle for his usual efficiency, which could lead to more misses to collect for the Turkish center. The Suns are just 21st in opponent rebounds per game and both teams are in the top 10 in defensive rating in the league. That should all lead to another big night for Yurtseven on the glass.

Be sure to check out our full game preview for Miami Heat vs Phoenix Suns.

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