NBA Underdog Pick’em Player Predictions: Friday (4/12)
As we head into the last full week of the NBA regular season schedule, we have a jam-packed Friday slate with 15 games across the Association.
So, let's spare no time and jump right into some of our Underdog Pick’ems for April 11!
NBA Underdog Pick’em Player Predictions
Joel Embiid Over 29.5 Points
Since returning from a left knee injury that required surgery, the Philadelphia center has increased his points scored each game. In the last contest, the points jumped from 30 to 37 in 36 minutes of on-court action (the most since returning). The Orlando Magic do not really have an answer at the rim for the size and strength of Joel Embiid. So, if he can replicate the minutes in his last contest, this should be a number that is cleared.
Anthony Davis Under 5 First-Quarter Rebounds
This number initially seems as if the expectation is for Anthony Davis to have a monster start on the boards. Over the course of the last 10 games, the Lakers’ center is averaging 4.5 rebounds in 11 minutes of first-quarter play. This pick has more to do with the fact Davis may see three fewer minutes to start the game (or less), considering the opponent, Memphis. With the Lakers focused on the playoffs, this isn't a matchup where Los Angeles will need to rely on massive minutes from one of their best players, who is absolutely paramount to their success.
Jalen Williams Under 26.5 Points + Rebounds + Assists
Since returning from an ankle injury that caused the OKC forward to miss four games, the scoring production has declined slightly from season averages. It has only been two games (which were back-to-back), yet, in those contests, the points have dipped from 19.3 on 53% shooting to 10.5 on 45.5% shooting. With Milwaukee missing Giannis Antetokounmpo for the remainder of the regular season due to a strained calf injury, it's also highly possible that Jalen Williams will not see the fourth quarter.
Victor Wembanyama Over 2 First-Quarter Rebounds
The rookie sensation is down to the final games in his maiden NBA voyage, and it's must-see TV! Victor Wembanyama is averaging 35.5 minutes in April, including one contest with 43. This is fantastic news, considering the San Antonio big man is averaging 0.36 rebounds per minute on the season, including 2.9 in the first quarter. In the last contest against Denver on April 2, he finished with 15 rebounds, going head-to-head with one of the better centers in the league.
Isaiah Hartenstein Over 0.5 First-Quarter Assists
This selection is mostly predicated on the Knicks’ center’s recent increase over the last two games. In those contests, he averaged six assists per game and saw 6.3 minutes in the first quarter. An offensive rebound and kick-out to an open shooter is what we are looking for early on against the Brooklyn Nets tonight!
Enjoy the games, and have a great weekend!
Make sure to check out our other best bets for Friday: