Now that the weekend is here, it’s time to simplify the grind. Instead of splitting sides/totals and player props into separate pieces, my weekend columns will bring everything under one roof — a streamlined look at my favorite bets for the day’s slate. Fewer words, hopefully the same results. Keep reading for my NBA picks and predictions for Sunday, April 5.
RELATED: Check out the Pro Picks page for more selections from our talented VSiN hosts and analysts!
NBA Player Props Today
Will Riley Over 16.5 Points (-125) vs. Nets
Wizards at Nets – 3:30 pm ET
We hit big with a Riley prop yesterday, going Over on 14.5 and also hitting the alternate on 20+ at +300 odds. I won’t be as aggressive in backing Riley tonight, but I still think his point total is a little low. Riley has scored at least 18 points in five of the last six games. He also had 27 points in his last meeting with this Brooklyn team, which happens to be 24th in the NBA defending at the rim, 27th defending spot-up jumpers, and bottom-five defending in transition and isolation.
Taylor Hendricks Over 11.5 Points (-113) vs. Bucks
Grizzlies at Bucks – 3:30 pm ET
Hendricks has scored at least 12 points in his last four meetings with teams that are ranked 20th or worse when looking at defensive rating, and that absolutely applies to this miserable Bucks team. Milwaukee is actually 29th in the NBA in guarding catch-and-shoot jumpers, which should bode well for Hendricks. He scores 45% of his points on C&S jumpers. However, Hendricks could also do some damage as a PnR roller and overall play-finisher.
Wendell Carter Jr. Over 21.5 Points + Rebounds + Assists (-123)
Magic at Pelicans – 7:00 pm ET
Carter just had 28 points, six rebounds, and three assists in a meeting with the Mavericks, and he has looked good as a scorer with Franz Wagner back in action. He’s just back to being a complete afterthought for opposing teams, but he’s capable of taking advantage of that. Well, Carter has an awesome matchup with the Pelicans tonight, as New Orleans is 26th in the NBA guarding at the rim and defending catch-and-shoot jumpers. He’s capable of taking advantage of both, while also doing decent work as a rebounder and a playmaker.
Additional Plays (Late Adds, Teasers, Parlays, Futures)
PARLAY: Hornets Alt +8.5 vs. Timberwolves & Warriors Alt +10.5 vs. Rockets (-149 – 1.5 units)
