We have four NBA player props to discuss as the league resumes after its All-Star break. The NBA features a robust nine-game slate to kick off the second “half” of the season..
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Top NBA Player Props | Thursday, Feb. 23
Jayson Tatum Over 29.5 Points
Tatum delivered a massive stat line heading into the break – 38 points and 16 assists-plus-rebounds. He rode that performance into the All-Star break, where he claimed MVP honors.
We’re not putting too much stock into Tatum’s 55 points against nonexistent defensive resistance, but it’s still a nice wave of momentum that he’ll take into the stretch run. The Celtics are primed for a return to the Finals, and it’s reasonable to expect Tatum to lead the way with a quality performance tonight.
Lauri Markkanen Over 3.5 Threes
We’re going to be a little bit aggressive on the plus-money odds here. Markkanen was shooting well leading into the break, hitting long-range attempts at a 41% clip. He went Over in five of 12 games – admittedly, not the best ratio of success – but attempted 10-plus threes in two other games.
There’s plenty of reason to be comfortable with the volume of shots Markkanen will attempt, including those from beyond the arc. Tipping off at home where he shoots 44.9% from range gives us enough added confidence to place this wager.
Walker Kessler Over 2.5 Blocks + Steals
Kessler is averaging 28 minutes per game in the month of February, a figure that could increase. Perhaps as early as tonight. His defensive exploits continue to impress – he’s swatting 2.6 shots and recording 0.9 swipes per contest across his last eight.
Oklahoma City attempts the most shots per game, including the fifth most from two-point range. The Thunder also operate with the game’s fastest pace, suggesting there will be ample opportunity for Kessler to wreak enough defensive havoc to hit the Over.
LeBron James Over 41.5 Points + Rebounds + Assists
There’s zero doubt about James’ commitment to winning and putting the Lakers in position to qualify for the playoffs – even if that means going through the play-in tournament. Every game is vital for the Lakers at this point, but it’s reasonable to suggest a home game against the Warriors – who are 2.5 games ahead in the No. 9 seed – comes with added urgency.
James should be as healthy as one can expect coming off of the break. He was in good form leading up to his record-setting game on Feb. 7, averaging 29.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists across a four-game stretch.
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