Death, taxes, and the total going over the number in the NBA All-Star are three certainties in life. That’s how the saying usually goes, right?
Wagering on any All-Star game is difficult because of the ever-changing format and relative lack of motivation for those participating in the event.
But with the NBA All-Star game, there has been a lot of experimenting to try and keep fans engaged. Last year, the NBA set up the format, so every team started with a 0-0 score, and each team had a chance to win every quarter.
The league also utilizes the Elam ending, where in the fourth quarter, they take the cumulative total of the winning team and add 24 points to create a target score.
Both teams then play an untimed quarter with whatever team hits the target score wins the game. Wagering on such a game requires patience, and sometimes playing prop bets — even once the game starts — may be the best way to make some money.
NBA All-Star Betting Props
MVP provides big numbers
Choosing an MVP pregame generally provides the best number for most all-star games. Top sportsbooks have LeBron James as the shortest odds to win the MVP at +600. James, who is the captain of Team LeBron, has won the All-Star MVP three times, with the last coming in 2018.
Giannis Antetokounmpo won the MVP in 2021 with a 16-for-16 shooting performance. However, with the All-Star game, it may be wise to take a shot on an efficient 3-point shooter as defense is always lax, and they will have plenty of chances to wow the crowd.
Golden State’s Stephen Curry is worth a look at +900, while Philadelphia 76ers standouts James Harden is worth a look as a longshot at +4000.
The Dunk Contest still exists
While the slam dunk contest doesn’t bring out the stars the way it used to, the competition provides a chance for young stars to get exposure.
Zach Lavine’s dunking prowess with the Minnesota Timberwolves got his name out there before he became a star player in Chicago. This year, it is a rookie that leads the betting odds as the Rockets’ Jalen Green is +150 to capture the crown.
No player from Houston has ever won the dunk competition. If you prefer someone with experience, New York Knicks forward Obi Toppin is worth a look at +250. Toppin finished as runner-up last year and is known for his high-flying dunks.
The Golden State Warriors Juan Toscano-Anderson and Orlando Magic’s Cole Anthony are listed at +350 and +450, respectively.
Choose points props carefully
The 2021 All-Star game saw 13 players score in double figures. Only two scored more than 30 points, and eight scored 20 or more. It is important to keep an eye on the injury report leading up to the game.
Last year, LeBron James only played 13 minutes and scored four points, choosing to rest in the second half. Chris Paul, who is capable of scoring, decided to showcase his passing and finished with 16 assists, but only six points. No player reached double figures in rebounding, with Kawhi Leonard coming the closest by grabbing nine boards.
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