Both conference finals head to game 3s this weekend, and we’ll kick it off with the Western Conference. The Thunder have taken a commanding 2-0 lead and haven’t been put in that much trouble at all. While we are interested in the game, that’s not the focus of this one. We’re getting down with first bucket props for May 24. Who is going to win the tipoff? Who is going to score first?
We’ve run the data, we’ve look at the trends – now, come check out our first bucket props for May 24.
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NBA First Bucket Props – May 24
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
Tipoff – 8:30 pm EST
Target Center – Minneapolis, MN
Broadcast – ABC
This series continues to be a confusing one when it comes to the first bucket. The Thunder seem to have all the advantages we typically look for. Chet Holmgren has been roughly 10% better than Rudy Gobert at winning tipoffs. Additionally, the Thunder had a 1.9% lead when it comes to scoring first during the regular season. Despite these facts, the Timberwolves have won both tips and scored first in each game. Between the Thunder’s dominance in this series and the trends regressing to the mean – I expect the Thunder to get the first one in Game 3.
If we want to get greedy and look for an individual player, look no further than the aforementioned Chet Holmgren. He took an increased role on the offensive side of things in Game 2. Not only did he take their first two shots of the game, but he also saw an increase in the amount they used him from range. After taking only two three-pointers in Game 1, he got off six attempts in Game 2. That increased volume and early work gives me the confidence I need for the big man.
First Bucket Bet for May 24: Chet Holmgren (+700)
If you’d like even more info to help make your first bucket bets for May 24, check out the NBA Gambling Podcast. They’re dropping episodes five days a week to make you the smartest guy/gal at the bar.
