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NBA First Basket Scorer Odds, Picks & Predictions: Thursday (3/30)

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The NBA isn’t exactly looking to compete with the MLB tonight. There are just two games on the slate, featuring both in a TNT doubleheader.

Still, the two matchups are intriguing. The Bucks will take on the Celtics in what could be an Eastern Conference Finals matchup. Meanwhile, the Nuggets hope to continue their hot season before the playoffs begin against the Pelicans.

I’ve added a couple of first-basket bets that I’ll be firing on below.

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

NBA First Basket Cheat Sheet: View advice for today’s best bets >>

Thursday’s Best First Basket Player Prop Bets

(Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook)

Boston Celtics vs. Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks and Celtics have already competed against one another twice this season. In both games, the Bucks won the tip. However, the Celtics and Bucks traded first baskets in those first two games.

There’s a much higher probability that the Bucks win the tip. Milwaukee has won the tip in 64% of games this year, while the Celtics have only won the tip in 50%. Furthermore, the Bucks scored the first basket in 61% of games, while the Celtics earned the first basket in only 51%.

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored the first basket in 11% of games this year but only took the first shot in five games. If the Bucks get the ball first, it will likely be Jrue Holiday scoring first. He’s attempted 10 first shots this season.

Bet: Jrue Holiday (+700) 

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Denver Nuggets

The Pelicans have won the tip in all three games against the Nuggets this season. In two of those three games, Jonas Valanciunas scored the first basket.

The Pelicans have won the tip in 50% of games this year, while the Nuggets have earned the tip in 47%. New Orleans has taken the first shot in a couple more games this season and scored the first basket in a couple more.

Jonas Valanciunas has been a key contributor to starting games for the Pelicans. Not only does he help win the tip, but he’s usually in the Pelicans’ plans early.

He’s scored 18 first baskets and has attempted 17 first shots throughout the season. He’s, again, scored first twice against the Nuggets earlier this season. Let’s see if he can get the hat trick tonight.

Bet: Jonas Valanciunas (+500)

View a cheat sheet of today’s top NBA First Basket picks >>

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