Over the past 7 days we were able to land 5 winning bets on our First Basket Scorer Predictions, including +450, +1100, +370, +280 and +650 bets. There are 3 more games this Wednesday in the NBA Playoffs, can we keep the streak going?
I'd encourage you to visit our NBA Predictions page for picks on the side and total for all 3 games being played today, now let's jump into my bets!
LA Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies: Jaren Jackson Jr. (+410)
Jackson has had AD's number when it comes to head-to-head duels on the opening tip winning all 3 of them this season, including the one in the series opener on Sunday. Ja Morant was able to capitalize on that by scoring the first basket in that game, but with his status in question for tonight's game, the Grizzlies will have to turn to somebody else. It makes a lot of sense to go with Jackson Jr. here, particularly because 33% of the Lakers' allowed first baskets have come from opposing centers this season. Also, Jackson Jr. is expected to be presented the Defensive Player of the Year award prior to tip-off, so it makes sense for the Grizzlies to go through him at the start of the game to further hype up the home crowd. The Grizz have scored the first basket in 66% of their games this season, relying on their centers 23% of the time which is the most out of any position. Let's hope JJJ can deliver us a winner here.
Check out our full game preview for LA Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies.