We’re trying to stay hot with our Thursday NBA player props after nailing each of our picks from Wednesday. The NBA features a six-game schedule, including Los Angeles Clippers vs. Boston Celtics on NBA TV.
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NBA Player Props & Picks | Thursday, Dec. 29
Julius Randle Over 40.5 Points + Rebounds
The Knicks have the chance to snap a four-game slide against a beatable Spurs team. They’re 5.5-point road favorites and will likely look to Randle to lead the way to victory.
Not only has Randle been on a rebounding binge of late – 12.8 boards over his last eight – but the Knicks will be without RJ Barrett. His absence frees up 17 shot attempts, plenty of which Randle will absorb.
Evan Mobley Under 23.5 Points + Rebounds
Mobley is being squeezed in the usage department. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland lead the way, but even Caris LaVert outpaces Mobley in usage rate.
While they may not all share the floor at the same time, it has resulted in a modest field goal volume for Mobley. He’s averaging 8.6 shots over his last seven games, including four with single-digit attempts. His quiet production on the glass over the same span has us leaning Under.
Jayson Tatum Under 30.5 Points
The Clippers are one of the top defenses in the league, ranking third in points allowed and defensive efficiency. They’re 2-1 on their current road trip and a win against the Celtics would ensure a plus-.500 finish before returning to Los Angeles.
Tatum was held to 20 points in 36 minutes when the Clippers hosted on Dec. 12. It’s reasonable to expect a better performance from Tatum. However, the Clippers enter the fray with a clean injury report, suggesting two-way studs Kawhi Leonard and Paul George will be available to make life difficult on the Celtics’ star.
More NBA: Clippers biggest threat to a title is themselves
LaMelo Ball Over 24.5 Points
Ball is the straw that stirs the drink for the Hornets – as diluted and flavorless as that drink may be. He’ll play Thursday without Kelly Oubre, who vacates 18.1 shot attempts. Speaking of volume, Ball is averaging 24.8 shots across his last four games.
The Oklahoma City Thunder rank 11th in defensive rating, but they allow the 25th most points per game because they allow the second most shots. A trigger-happy lead guard and a defense that invites pace, shots, and volume sets the stage for an Over.
NBA odds are subject to change prior to tip-off. Be sure to check the best NBA betting sites for the most updated numbers on prop lines.
