Germantas Kneita
We are all in for a terrific weekend of sports. Before the NFL takes center stage tomorrow, the NBA is treating to a monster 14-game slate. The action will begin with the second matchup in Paris between the Indiana Pacers and the San Antonio Spurs. That will be followed by a couple of early tipoffs, which ensures that we have hours of continuous basketball to enjoy.
Take a look at all of our NBA previews. But for now check out my favorite player props for Saturday’s action.
Jarrett Allen (CLE) Over 11.5 rebounds (+105)
The Cleveland Cavaliers will rely heavily on Jarrett Allen for rebounds tonight. With Evan Mobley out, the Cavaliers are undersized and facing off against a Houston Rockets team that is second in rebounding percentage over the last 10 games. Luckily for Allen, Houston’s Alperen Sengun has been struggling to score away from the paint — which should leave him in great rebounding position throughout the night. In his last matchup against the Rockets earlier this week, he was able to pull down 13 rebounds; he should be able to recreate something similar tonight, too. The second-leading rebounder in the last contest between these sides for the Cavaliers was Dean Wade, who looks set to miss this game. That will just put more responsibility on Allen to control the glass.
Grayson Allen (PHX) Over 9.5 points (-125)
Grayson Allen has been playing well off the bench for the Phoenix Suns. Over the last 10 games he is averaging 12 points per game. In that span he also had a chance to face off against tonight’s opponents, going off for 21 points against the Washington Wizards. Over the last 10 games the Wizards are 4th in the league in pace and 29th in defensive rating. They are also bottom 10 of the league in opponent 3-point percentage. Allen is knocking down an incredible 55.2% of his shots from beyond the arc this month. Against a slack defense and with extra shooting opportunities due to the pace, he looks set to exploit this matchup. He has hit double-digit points in 5 of his last 8 games, coming just 1-point shy on another occasion. This is great matchup for him to improve that streak.
Kel’el Ware (MIA) Over 1.5 made 3-pointers (-120)
Miami head coach Erik Spoelstra has been showing a lot of faith in rookie Kel’el Ware over the last 3 games, playing him for more than 34 minutes in each contest. Spoelstra has been rewarded with Ware dropping at least 20 points in each game. The extra playing time should result in more opportunities for the rookie to take 3-point shots. He has combined for 13 3-point attempts over the last 2 games, hitting the over on this line in both contests. Considering he is knocking down 40.5% of his 3-pointers this month, the Heat will want him to continue putting up shots. Over the last 10 games the Brooklyn Nets are just 23rd in 3-point percentage defense; they could have difficulties impacting his shots tonight. Bam Adebayo should be able to draw help on the inside and he is more than capable of passing out of the post. Look for Ware to be one of the floor spacers who benefits.
Mark Williams (CHA) Under 18.5 points (-110)
Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams had an explosive 38-point performance this week against the Memphis Grizzlies. However, that contest was sandwiched between 13 and 15-point performances. He might have issues getting going tonight against the New Orleans Pelicans, too. For one, he will be matched up with Zion Williamson — who is more than capable of getting Williams into foul trouble with his relentless attacks on the rim. The Hornets’ center has finished 2 of his last 4 games with 5 personal fouls. Williams is also heavily reliant on the likes of LaMelo Ball to create opportunities for him. With the point guard facing a tough defender in Dejounte Murray, he could struggle to dictate play. Williams also sees his efficiency go down at home. His field-goal percentage has dropped this season from an average of 62.4% to 53.4% when in Charlotte.
