Monday’s postseason hoops schedule includes two contests, and we’re discussing NBA playoff prop picks for both. The night’s action tips off with the Bucks at the Heat and continues with the Grizzlies at the Lakers.
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Monday NBA Playoff Player Props & Picks
Giannis Antetokounmpo Under 26.5 Points
Antetokounmpo is listed among tonight’s prop offerings at multiple sportsbooks, suggesting he’ll suit up. His presence would obviously be a welcome addition for the Bucks, down two games to one. However, it’s unfair to expect a vintage offensive performance.
As we know, Antetokounmpo isn’t a prolific three-point marksman. Nor is he particularly strong from the charity stripe. Even if his volume returns to normal levels, efficiency is a concern. Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton are capable of handling the scoring load as Antetokounmpo gets his playoff legs underneath him.
Brook Lopez Over 1.5 Blocks
Lopez’s rim-protecting ability is no secret – he’s averaging 1.7 swats across the series’ first three games. That only includes one Over, but we’re betting on his skillset nonetheless. Especially in a contest in which the Bucks need to improve their defensive output.
From the Heat’s perspective, Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo dominate shot volume. The duo does most of its work within the three-point arc. In theory, Lopez will have ample opportunity to contest plenty of shots in the paint and at the rack in a must-win spot.
Bonus NBA Player Prop Pick: Bam Adebayo to Win the Tip (+100)
Adebayo won each of the first three tip-offs of the series, something that’s easy to see in the statistics. However, after watching each of the three jump-balls, it’s perfectly reasonable to suggest that Lopez and the Bucks have had little-to-no interest in securing the opening possession. That could certainly change – and at 7-feet, Lopez can win it if he wants – but sometimes the best bet is the simple one.
Anthony Davis Over 37.5 Points-Plus-Rebounds
The Lakers go as Davis goes. They won the two games in which Davis played well and dropped the contest in which he laid an egg. The formula is simple. Whether the Lakers employ the “KISS” method remains to be seen, but we’re betting on what we know.
Another shot-attempt total in the mid 20s is within reach. His 51.2% field goal percentage across Games 1 and 3 is also a reasonable mark to anticipate. He’s averaging 12.7 rebounds across three games, but is capable of significantly more as his 17 boards in Game 3 demonstrated. Look for Davis to be locked in for a game that could put the Lakers firmly in the driver’s seat.
Assists: Ja Morant (-2.5, -120) vs. LeBron James
As capable as James is in all aspects of the game, he no longer has to carry the load to the degree he once did. That’s particularly true in the assists department. He has 13 helpers across three games compared to Morant, who dished 13 in Game 3 alone.
Both James and Morant will have their fingerprints all over tonight’s contest. However, in order for Memphis to win, Morant will need to rack up another high total of dimes. Meanwhile, James can cede a heavy portion of distribution duties to D’Angelo Russell, and to a lesser extent, Dennis Schroder and Austin Reaves.
Note: Odds and lines for NBA playoff player props and games. Be sure to check the best NBA betting sites for the most up-to-date numbers before finalizing your wager(s).
