The Philadelphia 76ers and Milwaukee Bucks will open their 2023-24 regular season in a highly-anticipated Eastern Conference clash Thursday. The 76ers are hoping to overcome the absence of James Harden, while the Bucks look to make a big statement at home in Damian Lillard’s first game with the team. Here’s a look at our favorite player props for this contest, with odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Giannis Antetokounmpo over 11.5 rebounds (-130)
The Greek Freak averaged 13.5 rebounds per game in his four matchups with the Sixers a year ago and will embrace the battle against Joel Embiid on the interior. Antetokounmpo does have competition for boards with Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis, but he’s still the dominant force for this Bucks squad in the middle. This is expected to be more of a defensive showdown, which means enough missed shots for Antetokounmpo to grab 12 or more rebounds Thursday.
Joel Embiid over 28.5 points (-115)
Embiid actually went under this line twice in his four games against the Bucks last year, although one of the unders came at 28 points. The reigning MVP has been part of the rumor mill all offseason, with a lot of speculation about his next destination given the situation in Philadelphia. Look for Embiid to put all that aside tonight and showcase his dominance. The Sixers don’t really have anyone else who can score in bunches with Harden out, so Embiid is likely to get most of the touches offensively.
Damian Lillard under 4.5 3-pointers (-155)
Lillard took 11.3 shots from deep per game a season ago, so there’s certainly enough volume to think about taking the over on this line at +120. Furthermore, the point guard is likely going to have favorable looks with his Bucks teammates commanding more defensive attention than his Portland roster. However, we’re likely to see Lillard attack the basket more in this game and distribute to others. He’s not going to see the same volume of shots he saw in Portland and even though it’s his home debut, I think Lillard plays more within the fabric of the team and doesn’t launch at will.