Friday night brings a loaded NBA slate, with playoff positioning and play-in spots hanging in the balance. Teams are fighting for seeding, trying to move up—or avoid the extra pressure of the play-in altogether.
This article highlights five player props to target. A returning superstar is back in rhythm, a point guard is taking on more scoring duties, and a do-it-all role player is stuffing the stat sheet. Plus, two big men are set up for strong nights in favorable matchups down low.
All odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are subject to change. DraftKings does not sponsor this content.
Celtics F Jayson Tatum 24+ Points (-105)
Tatum is trending up offensively, coming off performances of 25 and 32 points in his last two games while taking on a heavy scoring role. He’s still working back to peak efficiency, but the volume is there. Against a Milwaukee defense that has struggled lately, this is a strong spot for him to keep building momentum. With his usage and shot volume, 24-plus points is well within reach.
Hawks SF Jalen Johnson Under 7.5 Assists (-112)
Johnson has expanded his playmaking this season, but this matchup leans toward the Under. The Brooklyn Nets have quietly limited assists, allowing just 25.5 per game over their last 10. With Atlanta heavily favored, there’s clear blowout risk that could limit Johnson’s fourth-quarter minutes. Between the matchup and potential game script, staying under 7.5 assists is the sharper play.
Celtics G Derrick White 5+ Rebounds (+104)
White has been steady on the glass, averaging around 4.5 rebounds and clearing that mark in three of his last five games. With consistent 30-plus-minute workloads, the opportunities are there. The Milwaukee Bucks have struggled with rebounding, and White has had success in this matchup before, making the Over a strong look.
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Raptors C Jakob Poeltl 13+ Points (+103)
Poeltl gets a favorable matchup against the Grizzlies, who have struggled to defend centers and the paint. With most of his scoring coming inside, this lines up well against a defense allowing plenty of points in that area. He’s been efficient lately and has cleared this number in three of his last four games, making this a strong spot to back the Over.
Magic C Wendell Carter Jr. 20-Plus Points + Rebounds Combined (-103)
Carter has been on a strong run, clearing 20-plus points and rebounds in six of his last seven games while consistently producing inside. The Mavericks have struggled in the paint and on the glass, allowing high rebounding totals and interior scoring. With this matchup favoring his strengths and steady recent production, this sets up well for another solid performance.
