We’ve got eight games between 16 different teams set to tip off on Friday. That includes a matchup between the Knicks, winners of four straight, and the Trail Blazers at MSG. Later, the Raptors take on the Magic in a potential playoff preview. Elsewhere, the first-place Pistons travel to the West Coast for a date with the Warriors.
On this loaded slate, which players should bettors trust (or fade) tonight? Here are my two favorite NBA prop bet picks on DraftKings Sportsbook for Friday’s contests.
Top NBA prop bet picks
LeBron James under 36.5 points + rebounds + assists (-114)
Even at the age of 41, LeBron James remains an All-Star caliber player. The King might not be in his prime, but it’s never wise to assume he’s washed. His numbers this season back that up; through 29 games, LBJ is averaging 22.0 points, 5.9 rebounds and 6.7 assists. It’s been an adjustment playing alongside Luka Doncic, but the future Hall-of-Famer doesn’t need to score in order to contribute. On most nights, he’s capable of racking up numerous dimes and boards.
On paper, Friday presents an ideal spot for LeBron’s Lakers. Washington, arguably the NBA’s worst team, couldn’t stop a nosebleed. The Wizards are giving up the association’s second-most points (122.3), most rebounds (56.9) and third-most assists (28.5) per game. Still, there’s a very real blowout scenario this evening. At his age, there’s no reason for James to be logging that many minutes in January anyways. The forward has failed to record at least 37 P+R+A in each of his last six outings. Even against a terrible opponent, LeBron’s output is no guarantee tonight.
Jock Landale 9+ rebounds (-110)
Zach Edey (ankle) remains sidelined, leaving the Grizzlies without their starting center. On the bright side, Jock Landale has done an admirable job filling in. The former Rockets big, signed to a one-year deal this summer, isn’t a household name. However, he’s taken full advantage of a career-high 23.2 minutes per game. Landale has posted 11.6 points and 6.4 rebounds through 42 outings this season.
Landale’s numbers, especially on the glass, have looked even better recently. Over his previous ten games as a starter, the Australian is averaging 8.1 rebounds. Jock has snagged at least nine boards on six different occasions during that time. Friday’s opponents, the Pelicans, struggle to box out. New Orleans is surrendering 55.6 rebounds per game, fourth-worst in basketball. When these teams met last week, Landale secured 11 boards en route to a double-double. A similar effort tonight shouldn’t come as a surprise.
