NBA Playoff Picks & Predictions: Round 1 Best Bets for Sunday

My NBA playoff picks and predictions dive into the latest NBA odds for Sunday’s Round 1 schedule.

NBA Playoff Best Bets for Sunday, April 19

• Derrick White Over 13.5 points (-109)
• Victor Wembanyama Under 2.5 3-pointers (-135)

76ers vs. Celtics Prediction for Sunday

I’m taking advantage of a discounted scoring line (13.5) for Derrick White in my 76ers vs. Celtics prediction for Sunday’s Game 1.

White, who averaged 16.5 points per game this season, was candid about his shooting struggles during the regular season this week. But I think there is a chance that he gets back on track this postseason, helping the Celtics make a deep run.

For one, Jayson Tatum’s return should create better looks. White cleared this scoring line in seven of his 13 games with both Tatum and Jaylen Brown in the lineup this year.

White also has a solid playoff reputation as a third option, averaging 17.5 points in the postseason and clearing this line in 73.3% of his games.

Don’t be surprised if White finds a rhythm this weekend.

Trail Blazers vs. Spurs Prediction for Game 1

I’ve found a way to bet against Victor Wembanyama in his playoff debut for my Trail Blazers vs. Spurs prediction. I like the under on Wembanyama’s 3-pointers made prop on Sunday.

Let the record show that I actually think Wembanyama will be awesome in his playoff debut, especially in Round 1. However, this play is more about how his shot diet changed this year.

Wembanyama only averaged 1.9 3-pointers on 5.5 attempts per game this season, failing to clear this mark in 48 of his 65 contests. His offensive mindset has evolved in his third campaign, which is why the Spurs are the No. 2 seed in the West.

This prop has traded as low as 1.5 in recent weeks, so I’m taking advantage of the inflated total for the series opener.