The weekend gets started with a six-game, 12-team set of NBA games. That includes several matchups with serious postseason ramifications. At 1:00 pm EST, the Cavaliers host the Wolves for a matinee showdown. Later, the suddenly competitive Clippers will hope to upset the Pistons in Detroit. Elsewhere, Victor Wembanyama’s Spurs visit Jaylen Brown’s Celtics.
With so many intriguing games on tap, which players should bettors trust tonight? Here are my three favorite NBA prop bet picks on DraftKings Sportsbook for Saturday’s contests.
Top NBA prop bet picks
Kel’el Ware 10+ rebounds (-106)
Bam Adebayo isn’t the only big man in South Beach. Second-year pro Kel’el Ware has enjoyed a breakout campaign, emerging as a nightly double-double threat. Through 37 games, the Indiana alum is averaging 12.3 points, 10.6 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game. In addition, he’s shooting 55% from the field and an impressive 43% from three-point range. The 21-year-old has put up those numbers despite averaging just over 25 minutes per game.
On a crowded Miami offense, Ware’s offensive contributions are somewhat erratic. Still, tonight’s matchup with Indiana is a dream for any opposing center. The Pacers have allowed an NBA-worst 57.2 rebounds per game to opponents. In addition, frontcourt contributors Isaiah Jackson (concussion) and Obi Toppin (foot) are both sidelined. Ware has snagged at least 11 boards in three of his last four outings. That includes double-digit performances against quality teams such as the Pistons and Timberwolves. The 21-year-old is capable of repeating that once again on Saturday.
Ausar Thompson under 12.5 points (-124)
Cade Cunningham (wrist) is currently listed as questionable. That leaves Detroit’s offense in a state of flux. In theory, the MVP candidate’s absence would open up plenty of touches for several other Pistons. Ausar Thompson is known as more of a defensive specialist. However, he’s shown improvement on the offensive end of the floor. Over 33 games, the wing has posted 11.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists while shooting 51% from the field. The 22-year-old’s two-way abilities also ensure he stays on the court for a lengthy amount of time.
With that being said, this isn’t a slam-dunk matchup for Detroit. The Clippers have been playing much better recently, including on defense. Los Angeles is allowing the 11th-fewest points in the paint per game (48.5). Thompson, not much of a shooter, could struggle getting to the rim tonight. The forward has gone under 13 points in 21 of his 33 appearances this season. Even with Cunningham potentially absent, it’s difficult to envision a ton of buckets from Ausar.
Cooper Flagg 6+ assists (+107)
In a season filled with disappointment, the Mavericks were dealt yet another blow this week. Anthony Davis (hand) is set to miss over a month at least, leaving Dallas short-handed yet again. The only bright side for the Mavs is the continued progression of Cooper Flagg. Since the start of December, the Duke alum has looked like a future superstar. Over his last 17 games, The Maine Event has recorded 22.0 points, 6.6 rebounds and 5.3 assists. Now, with AD out, he’ll command even more usage than normal.
Granted, less talent around Flagg means more defensive attention. Still, the forward is more than willing to share the rock. That should come in handy during Saturday’s contest in Chicago. The Bulls have given up 27.7 assists per game to opponents, seventh-most in basketball. They also play at the NBA’s third-fastest pace (102.0) on offense. As a result, the Mavericks should have even more offensive possessions. Flagg has delivered at least six assists in each of his previous five outings; expect a similar showing tonight.
