Best player prop bets for Thursday’s NBA slate: Zion set to bully the Jazz again

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) dunks the ball against Charlotte Hornets guard Terry Rozier (3) during the third quarter at Smoothie King Center.
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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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After a very eventful night in the NBA yesterday that saw major upsets and huge comebacks, there are three more matchups for us to look forward to tonight. We get arguably the biggest game of the season so far as the reigning NBA champions, the Los Angeles Lakers, take on the Milwaukee Bucks and last year’s MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo in what is sure to be an intriguing matchup. Be sure to read our full game previews on each of the three games, which include picks on both the side and total.

But for now, it’s time to have a look at some of the best player prop selections for each of tonight’s games.

Zion Williamson over 22.5 points (-110)

Zion Williamson was an absolute beast when these teams met on Tuesday night. He was able to knock down 14 of his 19 field goal attempts on his way to 32 points and led both teams in scoring. Williamson has been on an offensive tear overall, having now scored 30 or more in two straight games and surpassing the 23-point mark in five of his last six games.

The Utah Jazz simply do not have anyone that can match up with Williamson. Rudy Gobert is too slow, as is Derrick Favors, who also seems to lack a strength advantage. Bojan Bogdanovic and Joe Ingles give up way too much bulk to be able to stop him in the paint. Williamson should once again be able to get whatever he wants in this game — not that the Jazz will mind, as long as they contain everyone else around him.

Be sure to check out our full game preview for New Orleans Pelicans vs. Utah Jazz.

LeBron James under 8.5 assists (-114)

After leading the league in assists last season, LeBron James has seen his passing numbers come back down to Earth this year. His assists per game have dropped off from 10.5 last year to 7.5 so far this season. He is coming off a five-assist game against the Golden State in 38 minutes of action and has in fact recorded nine or more assists in just four games this season. Since the Lakers are now 15 games into the season, this seems to be more than just a dip in form. This bet is simply playing the percentages as he has only surpassed this number once in his last six outings. It is likely that the same will happen here tonight.

Be sure to check out our full game preview for Los Angeles Lakers vs. Milwaukee Bucks.

Mitchell Robinson over 17.5 points and rebounds (-125)

The Golden State Warriors have been giving out big rebounding nights to long and athletic big men over their last few matchups like it’s still Christmas. Anthony Davis had 17 boards against them, Myles Turner had 12, Serge Ibaka had 14, and even Pascal Siakam was able to grab 11. Considering Davis is the best rebounder of those mentioned, and he only averages nine rebounds per game, it’s clear to see a trend of the Warriors’ struggles on the glass to contain this type of player. A key part of that is down to rookie James Wiseman, who has had some troubles crashing the glass. Over the last week, he is only pulling in 4.7 rebounds per game which makes him a prime target to be exploited by the Knicks’ big men.

Now in his third year, Mitchell Robinson has really benefited from the arrival of Tom Thibodeau. He is averaging career bests in minutes and rebounds. He is currently putting up eight points and eight rebounds per game, but he does have two double-doubles in his last five contests, and I fancy his chances to do the same against the less experienced Wiseman.

Be sure to check out our full game preview for New York Knicks vs. Golden State Warriors.

Pickswise is the home of free sports picks, news, and best bets. Check out our expert NFL Picks including our very own Super Bowl page, as well as NBA Picks, and College Basketball Picks throughout the season.

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