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NBA First Basket Scorer Odds, Picks & Predictions: Thursday (3/2)

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While there are only four games on tonight’s NBA slate, each game has a spread of five points or fewer.

We will get some close and exciting games tonight, with two featured on TNT. We’ll also have a ton of college basketball on the television throughout March. Even on slower NBA days, we’ll have a ton of basketball to watch!

I’m looking at a few first-basket wagers for tonight’s NBA games, including the two TNT games. If we hit one, we’ll be profitable on the night.

Also, take a look at our other best bets for Thursday:

View 5-star bets and historical prop performance by players with our Prop Bet Analyzer >>

Thursday’s Best First Basket Player Prop Bets

(All odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook)

Toronto Raptors vs. Washington Wizards

The Toronto Raptors have only won the tip in 44% of games this season. They’ve also attempted the first shot in only 51% of games this year. On the other hand, the Wizards have earned the tip in 67% of games while taking the first shot in 64% of games.

The Wizards will likely win the tip and take the first shot. Washington has earned the first basket in 59% of games this season.

The go-to player for the Wizards is usually Kristaps Porzingis. Of the 26 first baskets made, Porzingis has 10 first baskets, along with 12 first shots. Back Porzingis to score first tonight.

Bet: Kristaps Porzingis (+450) 

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Dallas Mavericks

Joel Embiid will likely return to the court in tonight’s game against the Mavericks. Knowing that the Mavericks have only won the tip in 35% of games this year is essential.

The 76ers haven’t been incredible winning tips either, but they’ve won 44% of tips and have scored the first basket in 66% of games this season.

Embiid has 16 of Philadelphia’s 40 first baskets made. After a night off, he’ll want to get back into action early for the 76ers. Back Embiid to score first at +280.

Bet: Joel Embiid (+280)

Los Angeles Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors

In two games this season against one another, the Warriors scored first both times. It’s been Ivica Zubac vs. Kevon Looney for the tip in both games. They’ve each won the tip once in this matchup.

Although the Clippers have won the tip more often, the Warriors have scored the first basket 60% of the time compared to the Clippers, who have scored the first basket in just 48% of games this season.

Right now, it’s Klay Thompson doing the heavy lifting for the Warriors with Steph Curry out. Thompson has added 10 first baskets and has attempted the first shot in eight games this season. Give Thompson a go at +550.

Bet: Klay Thompson (+550)

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