In search of high-level basketball? Fear not, friends. Friday’s ten-game, 20-team slate has just what you’re looking for. This evening has plenty of intriguing matchups on hand, including showdowns between contenders. Out east, the 76ers take on the Magic, while the Celtics host the Raptors. Later tonight, the Knicks visit the surprisingly competitive Suns. As a nightcap, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Bucks battle the Lakers in LA.
Which players should bettors trust tonight? Here are my three favorite NBA prop bet picks on DraftKings Sportsbook for Friday’s contests.
Top NBA prop bet picks
Zion Williamson 26+ points (-105)
New Orleans, at 8-31, is on track for a disastrous 2025-26 campaign. If there’s any reason for hope on the bayou, it’s Zion Williamson. The oft-injured forward has been an enigma over his six-year NBA career. However, when healthy, few players are more dangerous than the two-time All-Star. Through 23 games, Williamson is averaging 22.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and 3.4 assists while shooting 56% from the field. Keep in mind, the Duke alum is playing less than 30 minutes a night. That’s due to a combination of injury management and New Orleans frequently getting blown out.
Fortunately for the Pels, Friday presents a golden opportunity to pick up a win. The Wizards might be even worse, especially after losing CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert in the Trae Young trade. Washington is allowing 124.2 points per game this season, second-most in basketball. This is a bet that can be simplified: Williamson, when motivated, remains a menace on offense. Given how bad both of these clubs are, it’s unlikely either side rests their starters early. Against a lackluster opponent, Zion should dominate.
Jock Landale 8+ rebounds (-115)
Zach Edey (ankle) is still sidelined, leaving Jock Landale as the starting center in Memphis. It’s been a career year for the journeyman, who joined the Grizzlies on a one-year deal this summer. Through 35 games, the Aussie has accounted for 10.9 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. That’s despite garnering just over 22 minutes a night. Granted, the big man’s workload has increased during Edey’s absence. As a result, he’s been able to deliver more counting stats than usual.
The Thunder, for all their greatness, can struggle on the glass. Oklahoma City is allowing the eighth-most rebounds per game (54.6) to opponents. To make matters worse, the defending champs are without Isaiah Hartenstein (calf), Chet Holmgren (shins) and Jaylin Williams (heel). That leaves OKC incredibly thin in its frontcourt. In 12 of 24 games with at least 20 minutes played, Landale has snagged at least eight boards. Given OKC’s injuries, there’s a good chance he can do so again on Friday.
Royce O’Neale 3+ three-pointers made (+110)
Arguably the most exciting game on tonight’s calendar is Knicks vs. Suns. Phoenix, a surprise postseason contender, has remained competitive thanks to its depth. That includes quality role players such as Royce O’Neale. The wing has been solid, if unspectacular, on offense. This season, he’s recorded 10.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. However, he’s shooting an uninspiring 43% from the field. Regardless, the veteran’s defensive abilities usually ensure a spot in the starting lineup.
O’Neale’s best trait on offense comes from beyond the arc. He’s knocked down a career-best 41% of his three-point attempts this season. That’s a positive sign going into Friday’s matchup with New York. Teams are hitting 14.6 three-pointers per game vs. the Knicks, third-worst in the NBA. On top of that, Josh Hart (ankle) is still injured. O’Neale has notched three or more 3PM in 24 of his 37 appearances so far. At plus money, he’s worth backing from long distance tonight.
