NBA Finals betting odds picks predictions best prop bets

NBA Finals Game 1: Dallas Mavericks at Boston Celtics best prop bet picks and predictions

Here are the 5 best prop bets for Thursday’s NBA Finals Game 1 between the Dallas Mavericks and Boston Celtics.

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The Dallas Mavericks and the Boston Celtics play Game 1 of the NBA Finals Thursday night. Tip-off from TD Garden in Boston is at 8:30 p.m. ET (ABC). Below, we break down FanDuel Sportsbook’s NBA Finals Game 1 prop bet odds and lines, and tab the 5 best Mavericks vs. Celtics prop bets to make among SportsbookWire’s expert NBA picks and predictions.

After a lengthy layoff since the conference finals, the Mavericks will play in their 1st NBA Finals since 2011 when they took home the Larry O’Brien Trophy for the only time in franchise history with Dirk Nowitzki leading the way against the Miami Heat. This is the Dallas’ 3rd NBA Finals trip as it lost to the Heat back in 2006.

The Boston Celtics are looking to break a tie with the Minneapolis/Los Angeles Lakers franchise for most NBA Championships. The C’s have 17, and would love to inch ahead in that rivalry.

Boston last appeared in the NBA Finals in 2022, falling in 6 games to the Golden State Warriors. Prior to that, the C’s fell to the Lakers in 7 games in 2010. Boston’s last title came in 2008 when Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen joined a Doc Rivers’ team that already had Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo.

Game 1 picks and predictions

Game 1: Best Mavericks at Celtics prop bet picks

Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2 a.m. ET.

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Mavericks PG Luka Doncic UNDER 31.5 points (-115)

Doncic will make his 1st NBA Finals appearance. He has had a strong playoffs, rolling for 28.8 points (PPG), 9.6 rebounds (RPG), 8.8 assists (APG) and 1.6 steals (SPG) per game through 17 postseason contests.

His target score for points is a bit high in Game 1. Yes, he balled out against Minnesota in the Western Conference Finals, averaging 32.4 PPG in the 5 games, which was similar to his regular-season average of an NBA-best 33.9 PPG. However, facing the Celtics is a whole other animal.

During the regular season, Boston allowed just 109.2 PPG, which ranked 5th in the NBA, while limiting the opposition to just 45.3% from the field (2nd in the NBA), and 35.2% from behind the 3-point line (4th).

Doncic certainly isn’t going to lay an egg, but scoring more than 30 points against the Celtics is a bit ambitious. People will look to his 35.0 PPG average against Boston in 2 regular-season games to argue against going Under, but regular season and postseason are completely different. Those games weren’t on the world’s largest stage.

Doncic averaged 34.0 PPG in 2 regular-season games against OKC but was held to 24.7 PPG in 6 games against the Thunder in the Western semifinals. So, there’s that.

Celtics SF Jayson Tatum OVER 2.5 3-pointers (-136)

Tatum is a good bet to hit at least 3 triples in Game 1 as he enjoys a little bit of home cooking.

He is looking to avenge an NBA Finals loss in his 1st-career appearance in 2022. Tatum hit 20 3-pointers in the 6 games of that Finals. He has that experience to tap into and is the favorite to win the Finals MVP at -125; Doncic is 2nd at +210.

The Mavericks were just so-so during the regular season guarding against the 3, allowing teams to hit 36.8% from behind the arc, 18th in the NBA. Defensively, the Mavs allowed 115.6 PPG, and 47.5% shooting from the field, both ranking 20th.

Tatum sank 8 triples in the final 2 games of the sweep against Indiana in the East Finals, hitting at least 3 in each of those outings.

1st-quarter total points UNDER 55.5 (-122)

The O/U total for Game 1 is set at 215 (O: -110 | U: -110). While the Celtics were in the NBA Finals in 2022, again, there are just a few holdovers. Outside of SG Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks do not have a lot of experience in the Finals, either.

Look for these teams to slowly get their sea legs after a lengthy layoff, too. There will be butterflies. There will be rust. That’s a good recipe for a slow start, and a low score in the opening 12 minutes.

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Mavericks SG Kyrie Irving to RECORD 4+ ASSISTS (-240)

This is not recommended as a standalone wager, as risking 2.4 times your potential wager provides very little in the way of value in hoping Irving gets at least 4 assists.

However, including this wager along with all of the other props is great for a Same-Game Parlay (SGP). Irving had at least 4 assists in all 5 games against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Finals. Plus, he had 4 or more dimes in 14 of his 17 games this postseason, including in 8 of his past 9.

Mavericks SF Derrick Jones Jr. to RECORD 1+ STEALS (-105)

At near even-money, this is a solid play. It’s the kind of prop which can make or break an SGP, as it is a coin-flip, though.

However, Jones had 3 steals in the Minnesota series, and he has at least 1 theft in 5 of his past 9 postseason games. He averaged 33.0 minutes per game in the Western Conference Finals, and there is ample opportunity for his quick hands to get you on the board.

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NBA Finals Game 5: Miami Heat at Denver Nuggets best prop bet picks and predictions

Here are 5 prop bet picks and predictions for Monday’s NBA Finals Game 5 between the Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets.

The Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets meet for Game 5 of the NBA Finals Monday at Ball Arena. The Nuggets lead the series 3-1. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET (ABC). Below, we break down FanDuel Sportsbook’s NBA Finals Game 5 prop bet odds and lines, and tab the Heat vs. Nuggets prop bets to make among SportsbookWire’s expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Nuggets are on the verge of bringing their first NBA championship title to the Mile High City with the first of 3 chances to secure the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.

The Nuggets picked up a 108-95 victory in Miami to push the Heat to the brink of elimination Friday. Denver was 49.4% (39-of-79) from the field, while Miami shot 44.9% (35-of-78). Denver also burned it up from beyond the arc, connecting at a 50.0% clip (14-of-28), while Miami was a cooler 32.0% (8-of-25).

If the Heat did anything well in Game 4 it was at the free-throw line, going 85.0% (17-of-20), while the Nuggets were just 76.2% (16-of-21). Miami also outrebounded Denver by a 37-to-34 margin, including 8 offensive boards.

The Nuggets posted 11 steals to just 2 for the Heat, while blocking 7 shots to just 3 for the Heat. The Heat were also mistake-prone, posting 15 total turnovers to just 8 for the Nuggets.

Denver C Nikola Jokic had another strong game, going for 23 points and 12 rebounds with 3 blocked shots, while F Aaron Gordon dropped a game-high 27 points with 7 boards and 6 dimes. Both Gordon and Jokic were good for 3 triples, too.

Miami F Jimmy Butler did his best to will his team to a win, posting a team-high 25 points with 7 assists and 7 rebounds, while C Bam Adebayo was good for 20 points and 11 rebounds for the team’s only double-double.

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Game 5: Best Heat at Nuggets prop bet picks

Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:10 a.m. ET.

0 Dunks in the 1st Quarter 12:00-9:00 (-162)

It seems like a relatively high price to pay for this particular prop, but it’s well worth the money.

We have had just 5 total dunks in the 1st Quarter of this series, with a total of just 1 in the previous 3 games. Gordon had a dunk with 9:27 left in 1st Quarter of Game 1, and he had another with 7:11 to go in the 1st Quarter of Game 2. Hold your breath in the first 3 minutes when Gordon has the ball, and hope Miami can clog up the paint.

We have had a total of just 32 dunks in the entire series, and 4 of the 5 total dunks in the 1st Quarter came in Game 1. In the 2nd Quarter, we have had 11 dunks, the 3rd Quarter has been the most prolific with 13, and the 4th Quarter has had just 3 dunks and 1 missed attempt by Adebayo in Game 3.

Heat SF Jimmy Butler Points: UNDER 27.5 (-125)

Jimmy Buckets had been playing out of his mind, almost single-handedly getting the Heat out of jams all throughout the playoffs. The Nuggets have done a pretty decent holding him in check as he’s shooting 40.8% from the field, including 39.3% (13-of-33) over the first 2 games in Denver.

At Ball Arena, Butler is averaging just 17.0 points per game (PPG) with a total of 3 triples in 2 games in this series. Look for the Nuggets to keep him at bay, for the most part, yet again in Game 5.

Heat C Bam Adebayo Rebounds: OVER 10.5 (-120)

Adebayo averaged 9.2 rebounds per game (RPG) during the regular season, but he has exceeded those numbers in this series by miles.

Adebayo pulled down 13 boards in Game 1 in Denver while going for 9 in Game 2. He managed 17 rebounds in Game 3 and snagged 11 more in Game 4. He is averaging 12.5 RPG in 4 games in this series, and if the rebound prop was 10.5 in each game, he would have cashed Over in 3 out of 4 outings.

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Nuggets F Aaron Gordon Player Combo: OVER 23.5 Points + Rebounds + Assists (-114)

Gordon crushed it in Game 4, going for 27 points to outscore everybody. That’s probably not going to happen again. In fact, it was his best scoring performance since dropping 37 on the Orlando Magic in a regular-season game back on Feb. 9.

However, hitting a combined total of points, rebounds and assists Over 23.5 seems too good to pass up.

Gordon is averaging 16.5 PPG, 7.5 RPG and 3.5 APG in the 4 games of this season, and that’s good for 27.5 combined, which would be well Over the threshold for this prop. He has at least 7 boards in the past 3 games, and 5.5 APG in the past 2 games. As long as he doesn’t get into foul trouble, I like this combo prop a lot.

Miami Heat 1st Quarter Line: +3.5 (-122)

The Heat were outscored by 9 points in the 1st Quarter in Game 1 in Denver, but they were leading 26-23 after 12 minutes in Game 2. In Game 3, the Heat was tied 24-24, and in Game 4 Miami was up 21-20 before being outscored in Quarters 2 and 3.

Miami has found a way to hang tough in the early portion of the game before strong showings in the middle of the game by Denver.

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NBA Finals Game 4: Denver Nuggets at Miami Heat best prop bet picks and predictions

Here are the best prop bet picks and predictions for Friday’s NBA Finals Game 4 between the Nuggets and Heat.

The Denver Nuggets and Miami Heat square off in Game 4 of the NBA Finals Friday at Kaseya Center. Nuggets lead series 2-1. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET (ABC). Below, we break down BetMGM Sportsbook’s (OR FanDuel Sportsbook’s) NBA Finals Game 4 prop bet odds and lines, and tab the Nuggets vs. Heat prop bets to make among SportsbookWire’s expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Nuggets slipped up in Game 2, losing home-court advantage to the Heat in the process. However, Denver pasted Miami 109-94 on the road in Game 3 on Wednesday as it seized back the advantage.

Denver C Nikola Jokic continued his amazing play, going for a triple-double with 32 points (12-of-21 from the field), 21 rebounds and 10 assists along with 2 blocked shots. The ‘Blue Arrow’, G Jamal Murray, added 34 points with 10 rebounds and 10 assists while hitting 12-of-22 from the floor, including 3 triples.

Jokic and Murray were the first teammates in NBA Finals history to each record triple-doubles. Jokic’s game with 30+ points, 20+ boards and 10+ dimes was the first game of its kind in NBA Finals history, too.

Miami F Bam Adebayo had a giant stat line too, going for 22 points with 17 rebounds, while F Jimmy Butler registered team-high 28 points. As a result, there are a lot of intriguing props to play for Game 4.

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Game 4: Best Nuggets at Heat prop bet picks

Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:53 a.m. ET.

Nuggets C Nikola Jokic Player Alt Points + Rebounds + Assists: OVER 53.5 (-136)

Why not start with the top dog? ‘Joker’ had an absolutely ridiculous stat line, combining for 32 points, 21 rebounds and 10 assists in 44 minutes in Game 3. However, if you were playing this prop in the last game, you cashed with plenty of comfort.

Playing Jokic’s points + assists would have been a total of 42, which would cash that prop by just a half-point. You want to make sure you also play a prop which includes rebounds, as that’s a big part of Jokic’s game.

The star pivot is averaging 33.3 PPG, 14.0 RPG and 9.3 APG in the 3 games of this series so far, posting 2 triple-doubles and 3 double-doubles. He wasn’t a giant passer in Game 2, but he would have cashed the Over at this number in each of the past 2 in this series.

Heat PG Gabe Vincent steals: OVER 0.5 (-180)

This is my personal limit for a singular bet. If you’re able to toss the Vincent Steals Over into a parlay, that would be a much better play.

Vincent was good for a pair of steals in Game 3, and he also had 2 steals in Game 2 in Denver. He is averaging 1.3 SPG in the NBA Finals, and he picked up a steal in 12 of the past 18 postseason games.

Nuggets SG Kentavious Caldwell-Pope Alt Points + Rebounds: Over 9.5 (-168)

Caldwell-Pope has been consistent in these NBA Finals, going for 6 or more points and posting exactly 3 rebounds in each outing against the Heat so far.

This is a safe bet, as we know what to expect from KCP. He has been off with his shot in the past 2 games, hitting just 2-of-8 from the field, but he has gotten to the free-throw stripe 7 times in the past 2 outings, making all of his attempts. This will be a nail-biter prop which goes down to the end, so be prepared.

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Heat C Bam Adebayo Alt Points + Rebounds + Assists: Over 39.5 (+200)

Adebayo is a tremendous value at this price, as you have a chance to double up if he combines for 40 total points, rebounds and assists.

So far in this series, Adebayo has been playing out of his mind, posting 21 or more points in each outing, going for 23.0 PPG, 13.0 RPG and 4.0 APG, which is exactly the target number of 40 for this cash to prop. He simply needs to keep hitting his averages for the win.

If you want to play it safe, Over 35.5 (-104) is still right near even-money, and is good if you’re not as adventurous.

Denver Nuggets Total Points: Over 106.5 (-115)

The Nuggets went Under this total in Game 1 at home, going for just 104 points. However, Denver cashed in both Games 2 and 3, going for 108 and 109 points.

I love Over bets. There is a lot less sweating, and once you’re Over, you can just kick back and relax the rest of the game.

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NBA Finals Game 3: Denver Nuggets at Miami Heat best prop bet picks and predictions

Here are the best prop bet picks and predictions for Wednesday’s NBA Finals Game 3 between the Nuggets and Heat.

The Denver Nuggets face the Miami Heat in Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday. Tip is set for 8:30 p.m. ET (ABC) at Kaseya Center. Below, we break down BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA Finals Game 3 prop bet odds and lines, and tab the 3 best Nuggets vs. Heat prop bets to make among SportsbookWire’s expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Heat continued their Cinderella story on Sunday with a 111-108 victory in Denver to even the series. The Nuggets led by 8 points entering the 4th quarter, but could not put the game away.

C Nikola Jokic tried to put the game on his back with 41 points, but in the process diverged from his usual court presence and only contributed 4 assists after notching 14 in Game 1. Miami G Gabe Vincent gave the Heat a much needed boost going 4-of-6 on 3-pointers.

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Game 3: Best Nuggets at Heat prop bet picks

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 10:40 p.m. ET.

Nuggets F Michael Porter Jr. 3-pointers made: OVER 2.5 (-120)

For everyone who bet this prop the last 2 games, I understand the skepticism. So far he’s 3 for 17 from behind the arc, 1 for 6 in Game 2.

But just remember MPJ averages 7.1 treys per game, 2nd on the team behind G Jamal Murray. So far his slump hasn’t stopped him from finding open looks and if the Nuggets are going to win (which I still believe will happen) it starts with MPJ.

Miami Heat Team Total: UNDER 103.5 (+130)

This is a way to play the moneyline with better odds but slightly more risk. In these playoffs the Heat win with their offense. In their wins, Miami went Over 103.5 in 11 of their 13 games. In losses, they went Under 103.5 in 5 of their 7 games.

For the Miami fans you can also find plus money odds on the Over market. Against the Milwaukee Bucks and Boston Celtics the Heat scored Over 110 in 7 of their 8 wins. You can get that number at +160. Alas, I think Denver will pull out the win.

Race to 10 points: NUGGETS (-135)

Miami went 4 of 6 to start Game 2 while Denver started 0 for 4 which should be an anomaly. If you include the regular season Denver averages 30.1 points in the 1st quarter, which was 3rd best in the NBA. In Game 2 they scored just 23.

In Game 1 Denver won the race to 10 points and kept their foot on the pedal to open the series. I expect them to come out aggressive after the stunning loss in Game 2.

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NBA Finals Game 2: Miami Heat at Denver Nuggets best prop bet picks and predictions

Here are the best prop bet picks and predictions for Sunday’s NBA Finals Game 2 between the Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets.

The Denver Nuggets welcome the Miami Heat to Ball Arena for Game 2 of the 2023 NBA Finals. Tip is set for 8 p.m. ET (ABC). Below, we break down BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA Finals Game 2 prop bet odds and lines, and tab the 4 best Heat vs. Nuggets prop bets to make among SportsbookWire’s expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Nuggets throttled the Heat in Game 1, winning at home by 11. The score ended 104-93, but Denver was more dominant than that suggests, taking a 21-point lead into the final period. The Nuggets covered as a 9-point favorite. The Under 218.5 hit as well.

Two-time MVP C Nikola Jokic led the way with a 27-point, 14-assist, 10-rebound triple-double. C Bam Adebayo led the Heat with 26 points.

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Game 2: Best Heat at Nuggets prop bet picks

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:15 a.m. ET.

Total game points: 211-220 (+260)

The Under in Game 1 hit with ease, but the poor shooting performances are unlikely to repeat themselves.

For starters, the Nuggets were just 8-for-27 from deep. They had the most efficient offense in the NBA this season. Couple that with the Heat, who shot just 40.6% from the field, and scoring should come easier for both sides.

The total is set at 215.5, so this gets both sides of that. Trust the oddsmakers will be better with their line and back the TOTAL GAME POINTS: 211-220 (+260).

Heat F Jimmy Butler points: OVER 26.5 (-110)

Butler is a fighter. He has scored 20-plus points in every game following a game in which he missed the 20-point mark. He scored 13 in Game 1.

Also, the Heat took just 2 free throws, and Butler, a frequent to the line, didn’t take any. That should be expected to change as well. He averaged 7.7 free throw attempts per game against the Celtics.

Butler should bounce back, and considering both those notes, OVER 26.5 (-110) looks like a solid option.

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Heat C Bam Adebayo double-double: YES (-125)

This might be my favorite prop bet, and the reasoning is simple: The Heat will need Bam on the court. In every game this postseason in which Adebayo has topped 39 minutes, he has recorded a double-double.

Adebayo has also recorded a double-double in 3 straight games. He had 13 rebounds in Game 1, and as long as the game is within 15 points, he should again see 39-plus minutes. Take YES (-125).

Nuggets G Kentavious Caldwell-Pope points: OVER 9.5 (-135).

The Nuggets seemed to reduce their rotation in Game 1, and KCP was able to get 36 minutes.

Every other player in the game scored double figures if they managed north of 35 minutes. He will get the opportunities, especially as they look to take the ball out of G Jamal Murray‘s hands.

KCP has his double figures in 10 of 16 playoff games. Expect him to again hit that threshold. Take OVER 9.5 (-135).

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NBA Finals Game 1: Miami Heat at Denver Nuggets best prop bet picks and predictions

Here are the best prop bet picks and predictions for Thursday’s NBA Finals Game 1 between the Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets.

The Denver Nuggets welcome the Miami Heat to Ball Arena Thursday for Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Tip is set for 8:30 p.m. ET (ABC). Below, we break down BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA Finals Game 1 prop bet odds and lines, and tab the 4 best Nuggets vs. Heat prop bets to make among SportsbookWire’s expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Nuggets swept the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals while the Heat, who were up 3-0 on the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals, ended up winning a road Game 7.

Led by two-time MVP C Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets are strong favorites, but F Jimmy Butler seems to thrive when counted out. That said, let’s dive into the top prop bets for Game 1.

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Game 1: Best Heat at Nuggets prop bet picks

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:02 a.m. ET.

Heat SF Jimmy Butler points: UNDER 27.5 (-120)

Butler is the Heat’s star, but he hasn’t necessarily been the most consistent scorer. Butler had games of 14 and 16 in the Celtics series and went Under this total in 4 of 7 games.

The Nuggets ranked 10th in the regular season in opponents’ free-throw attempt rate. Butler has had double-digit free throws in 9 games during the playoffs. Defended by a larger player in F Aaron Gordon will be a factor as well.

Put it together and take the UNDER 27.5 (-120).

Nuggets G Kentavious Caldwell-Pope turnovers: UNDER 0.5 (+140)

For this value, KCP to not have a turnover is worth a play. He has had 1 turnover in 4 straight games after having none in 4 straight games. He hasn’t had a turnover in 6 of his 15 playoff games.

He didn’t have a turnover in 8 of his last 15 regular-season games as well. KCP isn’t a huge playmaker and is more of a 3-and-D player. That should help limit any turnover-prone nature.

Take the UNDER 0.5 (+140).

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Nuggets C Nikola Jokic to get a triple-double: YES (+105).

If there’s something the Heat should aim to do, it is limit Jokic, who is the Nuggets’ best player, by far. C Bam Adebayo is among the best defenders in the NBA. He is undersized at 6-foot-9, so the rebounds shouldn’t be an issue, but he is talented enough to force Jokic to be more of a passer.

Jokic has had a triple-double in 5 of his last 6 playoff games. He went 12 or more in all categories except once against the Suns in which he had 10 rebounds. Jokic has comfortably had a triple-double in the last few weeks. He should again.

Nuggets to win by 6-10: YES (+375).

The Heat have lost 5 games in the last 2 series, and 2 of those have come by a 6-10 point spread. They should have tired legs, but are a gritty team that has typically found a way to keep the game close.

Denver has won 2 of its last 7 games by this amount and won by 5 and 11 in 2 of the last 3 games against LA. This is more of a long shot, but it is one I like.

Check out: Best bets for Game 1’s moneyline, spread and Over/Under

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NBA Finals prop bet payday: 4 prop bet predictions for Game 6

Highlighting 4 prop bet predictions for Game 6 of the 2022 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors.

The Boston Celtics, down 3-2, welcome the Golden State Warriors to TD Garden Thursday for Game 6 of the NBA Finals. Tip is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET (ABC) with Golden State leading the best-of-7 series 3-2.

Below, we list the best value prop bets from Tipico Sportsbook‘s 2022 NBA Finals Game 6 odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Warriors are entering following a 104-94 victory, having held Boston to under 100 points in 3 of the last 4 games.

The Boston offense has stalled as the red-hot shooting of role players like G Derrick White and Al Horford has regressed. Golden State was led by F Andrew Wiggins’ 26 points in Game 6.

Boston, the best against-the-spread team in the playoffs, will be in a must-win scenario in Game 6. It’s 1-1 in its 2 NBA Finals home games.

NBA Finals prop bets for Game 6

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:40 a.m. ET.

Celtics G Derrick White points: UNDER 9.5 (-106)

The minutes just aren’t going to be there for Derrick White in Game 6.

He had 21 minutes in Game 5 and was 0-for-4 from the field and 0-for-3 from deep. He has just not been as aggressive finding his own shot since that Game 1 eruption.

In Game 3, a huge win to put Boston up 2-1, White scored just 7. He hasn’t been used much in must-win scenarios, and I expect him to struggle to see time as G Marcus Smart should be well over 40 minutes.

Celtics F Jayson Tatum assists: OVER 6.5 (+112)

The Celtics have found success when Tatum is the distributor, not scorer. Boston is 2-0 when Tatum hits at least 7 assists, which he has only done in wins for the Celtics.

He’s averaging 7 assists per game in the NBA Finals, and I expect him to be more of a passer as the season is on the line. He’ll want to ensure his teammates are involved, and that’s what is best for the offense as well.

Considering that message should be relayed to the star, I’ll take his over in assists.

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Warriors F Andrew Wiggins points: UNDER 18.5 (-135)

After an eruption in Gam3 5, this prop has gone up a point, which is a huge point.

Wiggins has hit 18 points in 3 postseason games. Wiggins has hit over this prop just 5 times in 21 games. He also has yet to top this number at Boston, having gone for 18 and 17.

This one should be close as Wiggins will be involved, but after a 26-point showing and an increased value, I’d play this as Golden State will try to get Curry finding his rhythm again.

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Warriors G Jordan Poole points: UNDER 11.5 (-112)

Jordan Poole has been a staple of the Warriors’ offense over the past several months, but that’s not the strength they want to play right now. They do not want to expose themselves defensively, which is what we saw in Game 5.

G Gary Payton II got more minutes than Poole (almost double) because he’s not a liability defensively. Poole had 14 points on 8 shots in 14 minutes. He was 3-for-6 from deep and 3-for-3 from the line.

That’s not sustainable, and although he has consistently hit it (which feels like there’s reverse-line movement on this prop given he has hit it so much), this game shouldn’t bode well for him to see many minutes.

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NBA Finals prop bet payday: 4 prop bet predictions for Game 5

Highlighting 4 prop bet predictions for Game 5 of the 2022 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors.

The Golden State Warriors host the Boston Celtics at the Chase Center Monday in Game 5 with the NBA Finals knotted up at 2 games apiece. Tip-off is set for 9 p.m. ET (ABC). Below, we list the best value prop bets from Tipico Sportsbook‘s 2022 NBA Finals Game 5 odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Warriors were able to rid themselves of their 4th-quarter woes and topple the Celtics in Game 4.

Golden State got past the Celtics thanks to a 43-point explosion from 2-time MVP G Stephen Curry, who leads the NBA Finals with a 34.3 points per game average.

The Warriors won Game 4 in Boston 107-97. The Celtics will now be tasked with winning in the Bay Area. They have to either take Game 5 or Game 7, both of which will be in San Francisco.

NBA Finals prop bets for Game 5

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:37 a.m. ET.

Celtics SG Jaylen Brown 3 pointers: OVER 2.5 (-127)

Jaylen Brown has consistently been the Celtics’ best offensive player. Tatum and Brown are tied for the 2nd-most points per game in the Finals, and Brown has been far more efficient.

Brown shot 36% from deep this season and has shot at least 8 attempts from deep in 3 of 4 Finals games. He’s averaging over 7 attempts from deep and has hit at least 3 in 2 of the 4 games.

Warriors SG Jordan Poole points: OVER 12.5 (-113)

If the Celtics are smart and make adjustments, they’ll be sending double teams at Curry more consistently. That should free up Poole, who had 14 points in Game 4.

Poole has hit this total in 6 of 9 games throughout the Dubs’ last 2 series.

[tipico]

Warriors SF Andrew Wiggins points: UNDER 17.5 (-110)

Wiggins’ help on both ends of the court has been instrumental in the Warriors’ success. However, at 17.5, and for this value, I’d fade the former No. 1 overall pick.

He’s gone over this total in just 7 of 20 games and has topped 20 just once. Wiggins hovers around this total and has gone under it in both of the Warriors’ NBA Finals wins.

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Warriors PF Draymond Green assists: OVER 6.5 (+110)

As noted, the Celtics’ drop coverage has limited Green’s effectiveness offensively. They should start to play more aggressively.

After being benched for a key stretch in the 4th quarter, Green should play Game 5 with a chip on his shoulder as well. Green has hit this assist total in 2 of his last 3 games and in 3 of his last 5.

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NBA Finals prop bet payday: 4 prop bet predictions for Game 4

Highlighting 4 prop bet predictions for Game 4 of the 2022 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors.

The Boston Celtics (2-1), who regained the series lead in Game 3, welcome the Golden State Warriors (1-2) to TD Garden Friday for Game 4 of the NBA Finals. Tip is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET.

Below, we list the best value prop bets from Tipico Sportsbook‘s 2022 NBA Finals Game 4 odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Warriors were able to cut the Celtics’ lead to 4 in the second half of Game 3 but failed to make the comeback as a defensive masterclass in the fourth quarter limited Golden State to 11 points.

The Celtics have been led so far by the elite play of F Jaylen Brown. He has been an x-factor for Boston. As for the Warriors, G Stephen Curry has put on 3 masterclass performances, yet 2 resulted in a loss.

It’s not a must-win for Golden State, but it’s a game that would set the tone of the series and bring back home-court advantage.

NBA Finals prop bets for Game 4

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated 11:30 a.m. ET.

Warriors C Kevon Looney points: OVER 6.5 (+107)

Kevon Looney has had an interesting impact this postseason.

From being benched to being the key difference in Game 6 against Memphis, Looney should expect a larger role Friday, especially after Boston dominated the glass.

Looney has averaged 6 points per game this season and has hit at least 7 in 5 of his last 8 games. He has also hit it 5 of 8 times when he has played more than 20 minutes.

Expecting more time from Looney should correlate into more points, and at this value, I’d back his over.

Celtics F Jayson Tatum points: UNDER 26.5 (-106)

The Celtics have won two games this series, and Tatum has had 9 or more assists in both wins. He’s also gone under 26.5 points in both wins as well. If Boston wants to go up 3-1, they’ll need Tatum the playmaker, not scorer.

Combine that with the Warriors’ top-3 defense, and Tatum may struggle to consistently get good looks, especially against an elite defender like Andrew Wiggins.

[tipico]

Celtics G Marcus Smart rebounds: OVER 4.5 (+115)

At plus-money value, this is great value for Smart, who has collected 5 boards in 2 of his last 3 games. He’s hauled in over 4.5 rebounds in 9 of 18 postseason games as well.

After losing some time to Derrick White in Game 1, Smart logged over 39 minutes in Game 3. He’s back to playing high-volume minutes, and that should help this over hit.

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Warriors G Klay Thompson 3-pointers: OVER 3.5 (+100)

Klay Thompson hasn’t hit this prop often this postseason, but he has hit it in 2 of his last 4. On top of that, he has taken at least 8 attempts from deep in 3 of his last 4.

A career 41.7% 3-point shooter, I expect Thompson to come out and have a strong showing Friday night, especially with his team’s back against the wall.

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If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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NBA Finals prop bet payday: 4 prop bet predictions for Game 3

Highlighting 4 prop bet predictions for Game 3 of the 2022 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors.

The Boston Celtics host the Golden State Warriors in TD Garden Wednesday for Game 3 of the NBA Finals with the series tied 1-1. Tip-off is set for 9 p.m. ET (ABC).

Below, we list the best value prop bets from Tipico Sportsbook‘s 2022 NBA Finals Game 3 odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The name of the game for Golden State has been the 3rd quarter, winning it in Game 1 by 14 and Game 2 by 21. For Boston, it was saved by a +24 (40-16) in the 4th quarter.

While the Celtics could be down 2-0, they now have home-court advantage.

F Jayson Tatum has 41 points in the series and F Jaylen Brown has 40. With 63 points through 2 games, G Stephen Curry is the clear favorite to win Finals MVP.

Boston is favored by 3.5 points in Game 3.

NBA Finals prop bets for Game 3

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:33 a.m. ET.

Celtics G Marcus Smart points: OVER 13.5 (-113)

While the Celtics in general haven’t had a sizable advantage at home, Smart has improved his play at TD Garden. He’s hit double digits in all 7 home games, not playing in 2 of the Celtics’ 9.

He’s topped this total 4 of those 7 times and has launched at least 6 threes in 5 of the 7 games as well. After a 2-point performance in Game 2, expect a bounce-back game from the reigning Defensive Player of the Year.

Warriors G Jordan Poole assists: OVER 2.5 (-102)

Poole has turned into far more of a playmaker this season, and that’s been seen even brighter when the Dubs are on the road. Poole has hit 3 assists in 9 of 18 games, but in 6 of 7 road games.

Poole doesn’t have a game without an assist and has totaled just one once, so he is also getting right there. For this value, I’ll take the over, especially considering this should be a game that stays competitive for 48 minutes.

[tipico]

Warriors C Kevon Looney rebounds: UNDER 8.5 (-105)

The Warriors starting center has had a chaotic postseason from being sent to the second unit to having an instrumental role in closing out the Grizzlies. Looney is averaging around 23 minutes per game this series.

He’s collected 16 boards. Looney has only eclipsed 8.5 in 6 games (played in 18) this postseason. Given his limited minutes and the postseason-long trend, I’ll take his under here.

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Celtics F Jayson Tatum assists: OVER 5.5 (+110)

Tatum was a playmaker in Game 1, totaling a postseason-high 13 assists. He dialed that back in Game 2 with just 3. Given the game was a blowout for Golden State, he played just 34 minutes after a game-high 41:35 in Game 1.

Tatum is more involved and better at home, having hit this prop in 5 of 9 games. He’s hit it in 10 of 20 games this postseason. For plus-money value, this is a solid wager.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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