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NBA Playoffs First Basket Scorer Picks & Predictions: Thursday (5/18)

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We’re headed to Game 2 in the Western Conference Finals.

The Denver Nuggets escaped a Lakers comeback in Game 1 and now hold a 1-0 lead in the series. However, if the Lakers can earn one tonight, they’d be in the driver’s seat with the next two games in Los Angeles.

Tonight, I’ll be looking at first basket props. LeBron James scored the first basket in Game 1 after the Lakers won the tip. What will happen in Game 2?

Here are some first basket props for Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals.

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Thursday’s Best NBA First Basket Player Prop Bets

(Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook)

Los Angeles Lakers at Denver Nuggets

The Lakers have won the tip in four straight games against the Nuggets. Yet, the Lakers have only scored the first basket in three of five games against the Nuggets this year.

It’s been a different player scoring first in every game, but the Lakers have much more potential to score first in this game.

Los Angeles has won the tip in 60% of games while scoring the first basket in 49%. The Lakers have taken the first shot 56% of the time. Meanwhile, the Nuggets have only won the tip in 47% of games and have taken the first shot in 52%. They’ve scored one more first basket than the Lakers, but ultimately, they have the advantage, with a higher probability of earning the ball first.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis have both attempted 10 first shots this season. They’ve each scored at least 11 first baskets this season too.

Davis and James already have first baskets against the Nuggets earlier this year. James did it in Game 1, while Davis added a first basket against the Nuggets on October 26.

Los Angeles has had a lot of changes with their lineup throughout the season. They’ve also had to deal with many injuries, but when James and Davis are on the floor, those are the two go-to guys for the Lakers early.

I’ll ride Davis and James to score first tonight. If one of them cashes in, we’ll be in profit.

Bet: Anthony Davis (+460) & LeBron James (+500)

Also check out our other best bets for Thursday:

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