L.J. Cryer is stepping into a heavyweight matchup with all eyes on him. As Houston’s longtime go-to scorer, Cryer has the chance to cement himself as a March viper against Gonzaga’s porous defense. He’s been a tough-shot artist all season, and against a defense that struggles to contest shooters beyond the arc, he’ll have a golden opportunity to put on a show. Let’s break his betting market down—this is exactly the kind of game where a player like Cryer thrives. Here’s my preview, prediction, and breakdown for LJ Cryer’s prop market in the Houston vs. Gonzaga game tomorrow.
Also, here’s how I’m playing the game. I’ll be pumping out these predictions for individual games each round, with plenty of coverage here on DraftKings Network. Follow my handle @dansby_edits for more to-the-minute, point-of-need analyses and plays throughout the tournament.
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Best LJ Cryer prop bet for Houston vs. Gonzaga
LJ Cryer 3+ three-pointers (-125)
With Gonzaga’s defensive struggles, especially in transition and on the perimeter, Cryer’s set at 2.5 three-pointers stands out. Houston’s transition offense ranks No. 13 in fast-break points per game (13.3), and Gonzaga ranks No. 118 in fast-break points allowed, making Cryer’s ability to get open looks from deep a likely avenue for success. Additionally, the Bulldogs allow 35.6% from beyond the arc (No. 163 in three-point defense), further strengthening Cryer’s chances of hitting over 2.5.
Houston’s offensive system revolves around efficient shot creation, and Cryer is often the primary scorer, alongside Milos Uzan, who has taken on the playmaking role. Despite his inconsistency at times, Cryer’s volume and Houston’s elite ball movement make the over 2.5 three-pointers prop a strong bet. Gonzaga’s lack of rim protection (No. 106 in two-point percentage defense, allowing 49.6%) and poor perimeter defense make Cryer’s shooting role even more critical.
Cryer is also in a favorable spot to rack up points due to Houston’s overall efficiency (ranked fourth-nationally in offensive efficiency). While there’s some value in his 1.5 assists, his main function in this offense is scoring, and the Cougars’ ability to force turnovers (first-nationally in defensive turnover rate) will give him plenty of opportunities for open looks.
Given all these factors, the best value lies in Cryer over 2.5 three-pointers. Gonzaga’s defensive inefficiencies, particularly from deep, create the perfect setup for Cryer to surpass this line.
Best bet: LJ Cryer 3+ three-pointers (-125)
Tail Cryer to make it rain from beyond the arc with me in the DKN Betting Group here!
Want to approach your March Madness Bracket with the same precision as the top 1% of bracket pool winners? Check out what the PoolGenius optimizer has to offer!
