Washington Wizards vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Prop Pick: Expect Shai Gilgeous-Alexander To Start Hot
The Oklahoma City Thunder will host the struggling Washington Wizards on Friday night. Can Shai Gilgeous-Alexander blow the lead open in the first quarter? The Professor is expecting him to start hot and provides his analysis for his Wizards vs. Thunder prop pick.

The Professor
| 5 min
Washington Wizards vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Prop Pick: Expect Shai Gilgeous-Alexander To Start Hot
The Oklahoma City Thunder host the Washington Wizards tonight for the second game of a back-to-back set. At home, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been an absolute machine in the first quarter. He has scored 10+ first quarter points in 15 of his last 17 home games, and 74% overall.
Wizards vs. Thunder DATE, TIME, AND WHERE TO WATCH
- Date: February 23, 2024
- Game Time: 8:00 pm ET
- Where to Watch: NBA League Pass
Washington Wizards vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Prop Pick
Pick: Shai Gilegous-Alexander O9.5 First Quarter Points (-130) CLICK HERE TO SEE WHICH SPORTSBOOK HAS THE BEST ODDS
Shai typically plays all 12 minutes in the first quarter, which allows him to get to the free throw line when his team is usually in the bonus. With the second rotation, he is aggressive to find his offense, and puts pressure on opposing defenses by getting to the rim.
Washington Wizards vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Prediction
The Wizards have allowed the 2nd-most points in the paint this season, which means SGA should have no trouble getting to the cup. Washington also traded away shot-blocker Daniel Gafford, which leaves them even more vulnerable in the paint. In his only game vs. Washington this year, Shai scored 14 points in the first quarter.
The Thunder are playing on no rest, but that hasn’t been much of a factor for Shai as he’s scored 10+ first quarter points in four out of five home games on no rest. With OKC coming into this game as 16.5 point favorites, we can also avoid a potential blowout which could lead to Shai playing less minutes down the stretch. Consider taking the over on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 9.5 first quarter points.
NBA ODDS
