The 2024 NBA Playoffs continue Thursday with three pivotal Game 3s as the first round shifts to the home arenas of the lower seeds. All three series saw the higher seed win the first two games, which means Thursday’s results could unofficially wrap up these matchups as no team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit.
Here’s a look at some of our favorite player props for the day’s action, with odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Max Strus under 1.5 3-pointers vs. Magic (-102)
This is a bit of a risky play for a volume chucker like Strus, but he’s somewhat fallen out of favor in Cleveland’s rotation. The Cavaliers have not been sharp from the perimeter in this series, which makes sense since Orlando is one of the best teams at guarding at the three-point line. Strus has gone under this line in both games so far, and I don’t think he sees much success as the series shifts to Florida. I like the under here.
Joel Embiid over 42.5 points + rebounds vs. Knicks (-105)
Embiid didn’t look right in Game 2 as he continues to recover from a meniscus injury that cost him most of the regular season. The big man still managed to put up 34 points and 10 rebounds in 39 minutes, so the production is there. I think the extra day off will help tremendously, and the pressure of needing a win at home after going down 2-0 will bring out the best in the reigning league MVP. Although Embiid has played well regardless of location, he does do slightly better in both scoring and rebounding at home. I see a big effort from Embiid tonight and will take the over here.
Nikola Jokic triple-double vs. Lakers (+170)
It felt like Jokic messed around and got a triple-double in Game 2, tallying 27 points, 20 rebounds and 10 assists as the Nuggets mounted a huge comeback to grab a 101-99 victory. The series shifting to LA won’t make much of a difference for the reigning Finals MVP, who clearly has the Lakers’ number and will want to take control of this series. I think Denver’s secondary stars, particularly Jamal Murray, will shoot better in Game 3 to help Jokic’s assist numbers a bit. Give me the likely 2023-24 league MVP to rack up another triple-double as the Nuggets look to go up 3-0.