Fresh off clinching the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder aim to keep their momentum rolling into the playoffs. Friday’s matchup against the red-hot Houston Rockets presents a key late-season test, as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to lead the way for a Thunder team chasing its 70th win.
Meanwhile, the Rockets (50-27) enter on a tear of their own, having won 13 of their last 15 contests. Wednesday’s 143-105 blowout of Utah secured Houston’s first playoff berth in five years, pushing them into a tight battle with Denver and the Lakers for the No. 2 seed in the West.
Here is the featured Shai Gilgeous-Alexander prop bet on DraftKings Sportsbook for Friday’s matchup against the Rockets:
Best Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Prop Bet on DraftKings Sportsbook
Over 32.5 Points (-115)
Gilgeous-Alexander poured in 36 points in the Thunder’s win over the Pistons on Wednesday, and has remained remarkably consistent in head-to-head matchups with Houston this season.
For reference, Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged 36.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists in four games against Houston this season, clearing this points line in every outing. With playoff seeding still on the line and the Thunder riding an 18-1 stretch, he has plenty to gain.
Oklahoma City leads the league in defensive rating and ranks in the top three in offensive efficiency. Coach Mark Daigneault has emphasized staying sharp heading into the postseason, which means big minutes and usage for the Thunder’s MVP candidate.
“A lot of it is just fundamentals. That is relevant every single night in the NBA, including in the postseason,” Daigneault explained. “Keeping those sharp and top of mind is critical.”
Against a Houston defense that has been better in transition but still allows the sixth-most assists per game, Gilgeous-Alexander should have plenty of opportunity to attack mismatches and create advantages in the halfcourt, leading to a big performance.
As Oklahoma City pushes for a historic 70-win season, look for another strong scoring effort from Gilgeous-Alexander to anchor a marquee win.
