We’re discussing a trio of NBA player prop picks for Friday night. The NBA closes the work week with a 10-game slate with several postseason hopefuls jockeying for playoff position.
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NBA Player Prop Picks for Friday, March 24
Jayson Tatum Over 8.5 Rebounds
It’s fair to make the case that Tatum is operating as the Celtics best rebounder. He’s averaging 10.1 boards across his last 14, and went Over 8.5 in nine of those. That stretch includes a contest at Indiana in which Tatum collected 12 rebounds.
The Celtics are laying double-digit points at home against what could be a Tyrese Haliburton-less Pacers squad. The implication is the C’s will run away with this one, so there is some blowout risk. However, we’re comfortable backing Tatum to clean the glass enough to deliver the Over.
Deni Avdija Over 13.5 Points
Avdija has not been a consistent scorer this season, but the stage is set for him to deliver an Over tonight. The Wizards host the San Antonio Spurs, owners of the league’s worst defense. With Bradley Beal and Kyle Kuzma out of action tonight, Avdija has a great shot at another 30-plus minutes.
Avdija scored at least 14 points in each of the last three games in which he logged at least 30 minutes. It’s reasonable to expect the Wizards to play with a bit more urgency than their guests. They’re 7.5-point favorites and still have a pulse in the playoff push, so this is a spot in which they need Avdija to produce.
Walker Kessler Over 2.5 Blocks
Bettors can also wager 2.5 blocks-plus-steals with Kessler if they want a little more statistical cushion. We’re sticking with the plus-money odds on Kessler swatting three shots. The Bucks rank well in terms of limiting blocked shots, but they’ve been victimized by some of the game’s best in that department.
Kessler quickly established himself as one of the game’s most imposing rim protectors. He’s averaging three blocks in 28 contests as a starter. He recorded three or more in 15 of those games. Finally, while the absence of Lauri Markkanen doesn’t impact Kessler’s exposure to shot-blocking opportunities, it will prompt the rest of the team to step up in a variety of ways.
Note: Odds and lines for NBA player prop picks are subject to change leading up to tip-off – and even throughout the game. Check the best NBA betting sites for the most up-to-date numbers.
