Only thirteen Division I men’s college basketball games are set to tip off on Friday night. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t any intrigue on tap for hoops fans. Georgetown and Butler get things started early in a battle of programs looking to keep pace in the Big East. Later on, in-state rivals Indiana and #10 Purdue battle in primetime for Big Ten bragging rights. Ahead of tonight’s action, here are my two favorite college basketball player props on DraftKings Sportsbook:
Malik Mack 5+ assists (+145)
A once-promising Georgetown season has hit a major speed bump following six losses over seven games. The reeling Hoyas have struggled during Big East conference play, losing to heavy-hitters such as Marquette, UConn and St. John’s. If Ed Cooley’s squad is to get back on track, they’ll need big contributions from their best players. That includes Malik Mack; this season, the guard has averaged 13.0 points and a team-leading 4.5 assists.
Mack has totaled just eight assists over his last three appearances. However, the TCU transfer shouldn’t have much difficulty operating against Butler on Friday. The 9-12 Bulldogs aren’t very intimidating for opposing offenses, currently ranking 287th in defensive rating (107.8). The team’s biggest struggle is generating pressure, as they rank 362nd in steal percentage (5.2%) per KenPom. It’s a tall order for any defense to stop a savvy guard that can score and create, let alone one with major issues. At terrific odds, this is a bet worth taking to kick off tonight’s slate.
Fletcher Loyer 15+ points (-115)
Even after losing Zach Edey, Purdue has shown no signs of slowing down this season. Sitting near the top of the Big Ten with a 16-5 record, the Boilermakers wield one of the best starting fives in the nation. Leading the way has been a trio of talented juniors: Trey Kaufman-Renn, Braden Smith and Fletcher Loyer. Over 21 games, the latter of the three has put up a career-best 14.0 points, along with 2.2 rebounds and 1.5 assists. The guard has also emerged as one of the deadliest shooters in America, knocking down 46.7% of his attempts from three-point range.
Tonight’s matchup with Indiana should lead to plenty of points for the Boilermakers. The Hoosiers are allowing 73.1 points per game, third-most in the Big Ten. Over their last three games, the team has struggled to guard the perimeter, with opponents knocking down 44.6% of their three-point attempts. With Kaufman-Renn drawing attention down low, Loyer should have plenty of open looks. Purdue’s standout sharpshooter is set up nicely for a productive outing in this one.
