The NBA Finals are closing in. The Thunder put the Timberwolves to bed on Wednesday night, leaving one conference finals series left to be decided. As always, monitor any potential news and lineup announcements. The best way to stay informed about NBA player props is to stay up-to-date with the latest news.
That's not as prevalent in the playoffs, but you never know what might happen. The second-best way is to shop around at different sportsbooks. Player props rarely have identical odds across platforms, so ensure you get the best value. Let's get to it.
Unless specified otherwise, each bet will be for a single unit.
Thursday’s Best NBA Player Prop Bets
Last Time: 2-0 | Season: 170-122
OG Anunoby Over 18.5 Points + Assists (-110 at DraftKings Sportsbook)
With the New York Knicks' back against the wall, it's time to call on their only hope - OG Anunoby. Karl-Anthony Towns is questionable with a left knee contusion, and Jalen Brunson's line is too big. Without Towns 100% and perhaps out, it's easy to see how Anunoby's minutes and usage will be higher. He's scored over 16 points in five straight games and averaged over two assists per game this season.
Anunoby also got a big bump at home this year and is seeing the floor for nearly 40 minutes a night. He attempted 16 shots in the last game, and I expect something similar tonight with the Knicks leaning on their starters more. Indiana's defense also took a hit on the road this year, dropping from eighth in the league to 18th while its pace stayed the same at sixth overall. I don't think this will be the end for the Knicks, and that will be in part due to Anunoby.
Myles Turner Over 20.5 Points + Assists + Rebounds (-120 at bet365)
Another over I'm riding is Indy's big man getting his fill. Myles Turner has been playing around 32 minutes a night throughout the playoffs, three additional minutes than his regular season line, and this is still a line Turner covered in 70% of games this year.
The Knicks have been solid against opposing centers, but Turner’s line has simply dipped too low, especially if Towns is limited or out. Turner's usage has jumped over 20% in the last three games, and I expect that to continue tonight, even if Indiana is on the road. Turner is projected closer to 23 on the combo prop, and even with the juiced line, this is a clear value play. After scoring only 13 points on Tuesday, I'm buying into a bounceback for the Pacers’ big man and taking his over.
Ryan Coleman is a featured writer at BettingPros. Follow him on Twitter @ryancoleman_98. For more from Ryan, check out his archive.