It’s been a week of rest and recovery across the NBA. That’s the case once again on Thursday, with just four games set to tip off. Still, there is some intrigue for fans on this modest slate. James Harden returns to Houston, where he’ll attempt to lead the struggling Clippers to a road victory. Elsewhere, the surging Celtics will look to keep rolling against the Bucks. To close things out, Nikola Jokic could be in store for a massive game against the shorthanded Kings.
Which players should bettors trust this evening? Is there anyone that they should consider fading? Here are my three favorite NBA prop bet picks on DraftKings Sportsbook for Thursday’s contests.
Top NBA prop bet picks
Ryan Rollins under 18.5 points (-116)
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s calf injury has left Milwaukee without its top scorer. In theory, that should lead to more points for the team’s supporting cast. However, that’s easier said than done. The Greek Freak draws in a ton of defensive attention. Without his presence on the floor, this Bucks offense can struggle to generate open looks. One player that is set for more touches going forward is Ryan Rollins. The fourth-year pro has impressed this season, emerging as a locked-in starter for head coach Doc Rivers. Through 25 games, he’s averaging 17.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 6.0 assists.
Despite his breakout campaign, Rollins could find scoring difficult on Thursday. The Celtics, Milwaukee’s opponents, have allowed the NBA’s third-fewest points per game (110.6). In addition, Boston plays at the association’s slowest pace on offense (95.7), limiting possessions for both sides. Rollins has failed to score more than 16 points in five of his last six outings. It’s difficult to see that changing against Derrick White and a tenacious C’s defense. Milwaukee’s lead guard is someone bettors should avoid, if not fade, tonight.
Reed Sheppard 14+ points + assists (-112)
One name that is key to Houston’s success going forward is Reed Sheppard. With Fred VanVleet out, the Rockets are in desperate need of reliable ball handlers. The second-year pro still has plenty to learn, but he’s taken some major strides this season. Over 21 games, the Kentucky alum has posted 13.0 points, 3.1 rebounds and 3.3 assists. In addition, he’s delivered 48/45/71 shooting splits. Sheppard’s point totals can be a bit erratic, but he does offer high upside.
Offensive production isn’t guaranteed on any given night for the 21-year-old. After all, Kevin Durant and Alpren Sengun command most of the touches in H-Town. Still, tonight’s matchup could be the perfect spot for Sheppard to go off. The Clippers have struggled to defend from beyond the arc, allowing the fourth-most three-pointers made per game (14.7) and the second-highest three-point percentage (39.1%). Sheppard has tallied at least 14 points + assists in six of his previous ten games. Against a deflated Los Angeles squad, another impressive showing could be on tap.
Nikola Jokic 30+ points (-108)
To wrap things up, let’s go star hunting with none other than Nikola Jokic. Denver’s face of the franchise has been outstanding, to the surprise of absolutely no one. This season, the Serbian is averaging 29.2 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 11.0 assists. In addition, he’s shooting over 61% from the field and 41% from three-point range. At this point, Jokic is establishing himself as one of the sport’s all-time greats. That makes him a nightmare matchup for just about every team in the NBA.
Sitting at 6-18, the Kings don’t have the makings of a group that can take down The Joker. That’s especially true with big man Domantas Sabonis (knee) inactive. In his absence, expect rookie Maxime Raynaud to get the start tonight. With or without Sabonis, there’s not much hope for Sacramento. Jokic has notched at least 34 points in each of the three meetings between these teams this season. Most recently, he tallied 44 points on 16 of 28 shooting vs. the Kings. The Nuggets are still without Aaron Gordon (hamstring), which means more usage for the team’s other stars. There’s plenty to like about Jokic heading into Thursday’s advantageous matchup.
