The Clippers remained a playoff team in a tough Western Conference despite not having Kawhi Leonard for the first few months of the season.
They’re 22-17 and enter tonight’s matchup on a two-game win streak. It’s a one-game road trip against the Trail Blazers before a five-game homestand.
Los Angeles is a 6.5-point favorite and the game total is 220 on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Below, I have featured my favorite James Harden prop bets to consider from this contest.
Best James Harden Prop Bets on DraftKings Sportsbook
James Harden over 1.5 steals (+114)
Harden isn’t known for his defense whatsoever, but he’s averaged at least one steal per game in each year of his career. Steals aren’t indicative of a good defender, but it’s got value in the game.
Typically, Harden props revolve around his scoring, assists or even rebounds. The former MVP can do it all on the offensive end albeit some efficiency issues this season. Steals are another way bettors can get Harden on their slips.
Harden is averaging 1.5 steals per game this season and has at least two steals in 15 of 37 games. It’s less than half, which is a reason why it has plus odds for tonight’s matchup against the Trail Blazers.
The Clippers will play on the road in Portland, who is on a three-game losing streak and dealing with multiple injuries to key players. The Trail Blazers are 13-26 this season, which is 13th in the Western Conference.
One of the many reasons for their poor record is the inability to hold onto the ball. The Trail Blazers turn the ball over 16.4 times per game, which is the third most in the NBA. They also allow 9.8 steals per game to opposing teams, the second most in the league. Over half of their turnovers come from steals, so there’s a lot of opportunity for Harden to hit the over.
These two teams matched up twice this season already. Harden recorded three steals in the first game and one in the second. The 10-time All-Star also has at least two steals in three of the last five games.
Given the Trail Blazers’ turnover problem, bettors could consider taking Harden’s 3+ steals prop bet as well. It’s valued at +340 on DraftKings Sportsbook. Harden has at least three steals in seven games this season. He has exactly two steals in eight contests.
Regardless, both steals prop bets are plus-money for tonight’s game between the Clippers and Trail Blazers. The over 1.5 steals is far safer, but 3+ steals has more juice.