I only have a few plays for the NBA slate on Thursday, April 9. So, while I normally break things down with two separate articles, I’m bringing everything under one roof instead of splitting up sides/totals and player props — a streamlined look at my favorite bets for the day’s slate. Keep reading for my NBA picks and predictions for Thursday.

RELATED: Check out the Pro Picks page for more selections from our talented VSiN hosts and analysts!

NBA Best Bets Today

Knicks ML (-138 – 1.5 units) vs. Celtics

Embed from Getty Images

Celtics at Knicks – 7:30 pm ET

This is a play I posted to the Pro Picks page on Wednesday. Unfortunately, the number isn’t even close for anyone that didn’t grab it last night. With that in mind, I won’t spend too much time diving into this one. However, the big reason I like New York is motivation. The Knicks are essentially out of the race for No. 2 in the Eastern Conference, but they need to hold off the Cavaliers in order to stay at No. 3. Well, doing that means winning home games, even against elite competition.

The Knicks also come into this game with a rest advantage, as they haven’t played since Monday.

I’m also not sure we’ll see the full Celtics rotation here. Jaylen Brown, Sam Hauser, Neemias Queta, and Derrick White are all listed as questionable for Boston. Well, with the Celtics not having much to play for, the team could opt to sit those guys.

I should note that I would obviously be interested in backing New York if the numbers come down at any point, which is why I did it last night. I’d even suggest a play on the Knicks at -3.5. However, if you can’t do that, I’d maybe look to throw New York in moneyline parlays.

NBA Player Props Today

Jabari Smith Jr. Over 14.5 Points (-120) vs. 76ers

76ers at Rockets – 8:00 pm ET

Smith has scored at least 15 points in seven of the last eight games. He has also scored at least 20 in four of those seven contests. This Houston team is actually second in the NBA in ORTG (128.0) over the last seven games, and Smith doing his part and knocking down triples is a big part of that. Well, I expect Smith to continue playing well tonight. The Sixers are a bottom-10 team in the NBA defending catch-and-shoot jumpers and transition plays. That’s something Smith can take advantage of.

Additional Plays (Late Adds, Parlays, Teasers, Futures)

PARLAY: Heat Alt +7.5 vs. Raptors & Lakers Alt +7.5 vs. Warriors (+148)

The post NBA Predictions Today: Best Bets and Player Props for Thursday, April 9 appeared first on VSiN.