Ten games between 20 teams make up Saturday’s loaded NBA slate. That means several can’t miss matchups for hoops fans. This afternoon, the Rockets visit the Thunder for a potential playoff preview. Later, old rivals battle once again when the Lakers host the Warriors. Elsewhere, the 76ers take on the Suns in a clash between postseason contenders.
Which players should bettors trust on Saturday? Is there anyone that they should consider fading? Here are my three favorite NBA prop bet picks on DraftKings Sportsbook for tonight’s contests.
Top NBA prop bet picks
Jalen Johnson under 10.5 rebounds (-115)
It’s been a terrific season for Jalen Johnson, leading an otherwise average Hawks roster. Atlanta’s franchise cornerstone has done a little bit of everything, and it’s reflected in his workload. The Duke alum has a usage rate of 27.1%, 23rd-highest in the NBA. That’s led to some impressive counting stats. Through 48 games, Johnson has recorded 23.2 points, 10.6 rebounds and 8.2 assists. His ten triple-doubles this season are behind only Nikola Jokic (17).
With that being said, Saturday’s matchup could prove difficult. That’s especially true on the glass, where the Hornets have found plenty of success. Charlotte is giving up just 48.0 rebounds per game to opponents, the lowest mark in basketball. The duo of Moussa Diabate and Ryan Kalkbrenner have done an excellent job of boxing out. This is a spot Johnson has had some trouble in before, as well. The forward has gone under 11 boards in five of his previous seven meetings with the Hornets. Keeping that in mind, JJ might not deliver his usual double-double this evening.
Victor Wembanyama 36+ points + rebounds (-120)
Even the most casual NBA fans recognize Victor Wembanyama’s greatness. San Antonio’s young superstar has taken his game to new heights this season. Over 37 games, the center is putting up 24.2 points, 11.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists. In addition, he’s shooting 51% from the field and 37% from three-point range. At this point, opposing defenses can only hope to slow down the Frenchman, not stop him. Wemby has tallied at least 25 points in 19 of his 37 appearances this season.
Tonight, the Spurs head to Dallas in a meeting with one of the NBA’s worst defensive units. The Mavericks are a mess, giving up the 11th-most points (116.8) and third-most rebounds (56.1) to opponents. Keep in mind, this group no longer has Anthony Davis patrolling the middle of the paint. During the last two meetings between these clubs, Wembanyama has tallied at least 40 points + rebounds. There’s risk of a blowout tonight, but the two-way terror doesn’t need much time to put up numbers.
James Harden over 7.5 assists (+100)
The much-anticipated debut of James Harden will likely this evening. The Beard was traded from the Clippers to the Cavaliers earlier this week, sending shockwaves across the Eastern Conference. Cleveland now replaces the oft-injured Darius Garland with what should be a better fit alongside leading scorer Donovan Mitchell. This season, the former MVP has notched 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 8.1 assists per game. It’s worth noting that as of Saturday morning, Harden is listed as questionable. Still, I’d expect the veteran to suit up with his new club.
It’s not as if there are a ton of players demanding touches on Cleveland’s roster. Evan Mobley (calf) is out, leaving Mitchell in full control of this offense. Tonight’s opponents, the Kings, are giving up the ninth-most assists per game this season (27.3). In comparison, Harden has recorded eight or more dimes in 24 of his 44 outings so far. Assuming the future Hall of Famer suits up tonight, he should help out his newest teammates.
