4 PrizePicks NBA Props for Thursday, May 18
If game one of this series was any indication, NBA fans are in for a real treat. The Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Lakers are powered by star players who tend to put up big numbers.
In game one, 258 total points were scored, resulting in a fast-paced onslaught of scoring. This resulted in several massive stat lines, which included six different players that recorded more than 20 points.
We aren’t necessarily banking on another 258-point night between these two teams, we have high hopes for the star players in this contest. With that in mind, let’s take a look at our favorite player props for tonight’s contest, which are powered by PrizePicks.
Nikola Jokic OVER 53.5 Points, Rebounds & Assists
The analysis of Jokic remains simple, as it has for several weeks. He is the focal point of the Nuggets’ offense and has shown no signs of slowing down.
In their first game of the series, Jokic dominated the Lakers, putting up 69 combined PRA. He’s hit the over on 53.5 in the Nuggets’ last five games.
Until he gives us a reason to bet against him, we’re once again taking the over on Jokic’s PRA.
Austin Reaves OVER 23.5 Points, Rebounds & Assists
Austin Reaves has been a great impact player for the Lakers. Even though they lost game one, Reaves had a monster game, totaling 33 PRA.
He has hit the over in four of the Lakers’ last five games, mainly getting it done by scoring. We expect Reaves to have at least 18 points tonight, meaning he only needs six combined rebounds and assists to go over his PRA total.
In the playoffs, teams tend to ride the hot hand, and Reaves can certainly provide some key numbers tonight.
Michael Porter Jr. OVER 2.5 Made Three-Pointers
Michael Porter Jr. is the Robin to Jokic’s Batman. The two of them seem to work well in tandem, especially with Jokic’s passing abilities.
We like Porter Jr. to have at least 3 made three-pointers tonight, given that he has attempted at least six in four of his last five games. When Porter Jr. has the opportunity to make three-pointers, he doesn’t squander it.
Not only do we love this spot tonight, but we wouldn’t be surprised if he hit this number in the first half.
Anthony Davis OVER 3.5 Blocks and Steals
Anthony Davis is a defensive powerhouse. He made his presence known on both ends of the court and dominated against the Nuggets in game one.
Because they lost the first game of the series, we’re expecting the Lakers to be extra competitive tonight, resulting in more aggression from Davis.
Look for Davis to be especially active on defense tonight, which should lead to greater opportunities for steals and blocks.
Andrew Elmquist
Sports Betting Contributor
Andrew is an up-and-coming sports betting analyst who specializes in Daily Fantasy Sports and player props in all sports. He holds degrees from Winona State University in Spanish and Communications. You can find Andrew on X @AndrewElmquist1