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NBA Playoffs First Basket Scorer Odds & Picks: Saturday (5/4)

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The Western Conference semifinals kick off on Saturday with a matchup between the Nuggets and the Timberwolves. Although it's just a one-game slate, there are still plenty of spots for action. Below are a few of my favorite first-basket scorer plays.

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Saturday’s Best NBA First Basket Player Prop Bets

(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)

Minnesota Timberwolves at Denver Nuggets

These two Northwest Division foes will square off with a trip to the Western Conference finals on the line. After a split of the regular season series, we can expect a similar level of competitiveness during this playoff series. It's only Game 1 but both of these teams will be looking to get off to a hot start. 

To get off to that hot start the Nuggets will likely look to superstar Nikola Jokic to get the scoring going. His 28 first-team scores during the regular season and postseason lead the Nuggets. His mark of 19 first baskets was one of the best in the league. Additionally, he had success against the Timberwolves during the regular season. In their four meetings, he attempted the first shot of the game twice and one led to a first basket. He's the best bet to do so again on Saturday.

Pick: Nikola Jokic (+410)

If you're looking for some longer odds there is another Denver player I like. Jamal Murray was the hero for the Nuggets in the close-out game against the Lakers, playing through an injury. He cashed the first basket in that contest, which was his seventh of the year. His 15th first-team score is a number that sat only behind Jokic this season. Considering this is also a strong matchup against a Minnesota team that struggles early against guards, he's a good bet for a slightly longer number.

Pick: Jamal Murray (+750)

Denver isn't guaranteed to score first. Minnesota boasts Rudy Gobert, who is a decent first-basket scorer himself. Denver's biggest weakness when it comes to first scores is opposing centers. Gobert could easily add to his 18 first-team scores and eight first baskets. If Minnesota wins the opening tip, I like them to look Gobert's way on the first possession. Given his odds, I believe he's a great value for First Basket.

Pick: Rudy Gobert (+800)

Make sure to check out our other best bets for Saturday:

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