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NBA First Basket Scorer Odds, Picks & Predictions: Wednesday (2/8)

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We’re looking to hit a first-basket bet finally.

We’ve been cold recently, despite picking the right teams to score first.

I’m feeling optimistic today, though!

And check out our other best bets for today:

Get ready for the big game with our Super Bowl LVII Betting Guide >>

First Basket Player Prop Bets

(Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook)

Detroit Pistons vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cleveland Cavaliers have won the tip over the Pistons in both previous games against one another. However, the Pistons still scored first in both of those games.

Still, times have changed since the last time these two teams faced off. Both games were in November, and Cade Cunningham was one of the players who scored the first basket for the Pistons. He’s been out for the season for a while now.

The Cavaliers have won the tip 61% of the time, while the Pistons have earned a tip in just 36% of games. The Cavaliers also take the first shot in 59% of games, while the Pistons have attempted the first shot in 36% of games.

The Cavs haven’t been efficient against the Pistons but should still land the first shot attempt. Darius Garland has attempted 12 first shots and has made eight first baskets for the Cavaliers this season. He’s at +460 to score first and will compete against Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley for that first basket.

Pick your poison. I’m going with Garland.

Bet: Darius Garland (+480) 

Charlotte Hornets vs. Washington Wizards

The Wizards have played the Hornets three times this year. They’ve also won the tip in each of those three games.

Despite winning the tip in all three, the Wizards have only scored first in two games.

Still, Washington has won the tip in 66% of games this season, while the Hornets have only won the tip in 36% of games. The first shot has been taken 62% of the time for the Wizards, while the Hornets have only attempted the first shot in 42% of games.

Washington has the edge, especially after winning the tip in all three games against the Hornets earlier this year.

If Bradley Beal and Kyle Kuzma are both out for tonight’s game, Kristaps Porzingis has the clear advantage here. He’s attempted the first shot in 11 games and has nailed nine first baskets this season.

Bet: Kristaps Porzingis (+340) 

Indiana Pacers vs. Miami Heat

The Miami Heat lost the first tip-off against the Pacers back on November 4. However, the Heat added two tip wins in December against the Pacers.

Now we’ll get game four between these two teams. The Heat have only scored first in one of those three games but have won the tip in 50% of games this season.

Compare that to the Pacers earning just 36% of tip wins this season.

Miami has the advantage despite rarely making shots early in games.

Bam Adebayo has taken nine first shots but has only made five first baskets. I still like him to get an attempt up and potentially earn a +360 win.

Bet: Bam Adebayo (+360)

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