Sports Illustrated’s Peter Dewey analyzes his favorite bets for Thursday’s NBA action, April 2nd. The article focuses on player props and game predictions with playoff implications.

MVP Race & Doncic vs. Gilgeous-Alexander

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is currently a -300 favorite to win his second consecutive MVP award. However, he faces a challenging matchup against Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic on Thursday night.

Doncic Prop Bet

Luka Doncic has been exceptional recently, averaging 37.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 7.4 assists in his last games, including a 42-point performance against Cleveland on Tuesday. He has scored 32 or more points in 11 of his last 13 games. Despite the Oklahoma City Thunder having the NBA’s top-ranked defense, Dewey recommends betting on Doncic to exceed his point total, citing his high volume of shots and free throws.

Wembanyama’s Dominance

Victor Wembanyama is coming off back-to-back impressive double-doubles, with 41 points and 16 rebounds against the Chicago Bulls, followed by 41 points and 18 rebounds against the Golden State Warriors. He has recorded at least 12 rebounds in eight of his last ten games.

Wemby Rebound Prop

Dewey suggests betting on Wembanyama to have a strong rebounding performance against the Los Angeles Clippers. The Clippers are 20th in the NBA in rebound percentage, and with Ivica Zubac no longer on the team, Wembanyama is expected to have a favorable matchup on the glass. He previously grabbed 13 rebounds against the Clippers on March 16th.

Timberwolves vs. Pistons

The Detroit Pistons have a 6-2 record since Cade Cunningham’s injury, but face a tough test against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Minnesota is coming off a dominant win against Dallas following Anthony Edwards’ return.

Timberwolves as Underdogs

Dewey favors the Timberwolves as 3.5-point underdogs. He anticipates a larger role for Edwards, and notes Detroit’s struggles against the spread when favored (15-18). Minnesota is a .500 team against the spread as a road underdog, and Edwards’ presence significantly boosts their offense.

Other Notable Picks

Dewey also recommends betting on the Cleveland Cavaliers to defeat the Golden State Warriors, citing the Warriors’ poor record without Steph Curry (13-24). He also favors the Portland Trail Blazers to win against the New Orleans Pelicans, as Portland has been strong at home and against teams with losing records.

Cavs vs. Warriors & Blazers vs. Pelicans

The Cavaliers have a chance to improve their playoff seeding, while the Warriors are struggling without Curry. The Trail Blazers are heavily favored, with a strong recent performance and a favorable record against under-.500 teams. A Blazers win, combined with a Clippers loss, would move Portland into the No. 8 spot in the Western Conference.

Peter Dewey is a senior editor for Sports Illustrated Betting, with extensive experience covering various sports.