Player Prop Bets to Watch: Rockets vs. Thunder Season Opener
The NBA season kicks off with the Oklahoma City Thunder hosting the Houston Rockets at the Paycom Center. Despite being the top two teams in the Western Conference last year, both teams have uncertainties heading into the season opener. The Thunder may be without Jalen Williams, while the Rockets are missing Fred VanVleet and have added Kevin Durant to their lineup. With Oklahoma City favored by 7.5 points, there are opportunities for player prop bets to take advantage of the uncertainty.
One player to watch for the Rockets is Amen Thompson, who is expected to step up in VanVleet's absence. Thompson is favored in the NBA Most Improved Player odds and has props set at 5.5 assists and 15.5 points. With Thompson likely to have a bigger role as the starting point guard, I am leaning towards the Under on his points and assists prop at 20.5 or better.
Kevin Durant's role as the starting shooting guard for the Rockets could impact his rebounding production. With a projected decrease in rebounds while playing further from the rim, I see value in betting on Durant's rebounds and assists combo prop at bet365. I anticipate Durant to grab around four rebounds and dish out three assists in the game.
The Thunder are expected to start both Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren against the Rockets, utilizing their size advantage. With Jalen Williams likely out, betting on Holmgren to record multiple assists could be a profitable option. Holmgren averaged two assists per game last season and has a good chance to exceed that mark against the Rockets. Caesars' offering of -105 on the Over for Holmgren's assists prop presents an opportunity to earn $9.52 on a $10 bet.
As the NBA season tips off, keep an eye on these player prop bets for the Rockets vs. Thunder matchup to potentially capitalize on the uncertainties surrounding both teams. Stay updated with the latest NBA odds for more betting opportunities.