Best Bets: BasketballNews' NBA picks and fantasy advice for 5/1/22

Every day, BasketballNews.com gives you NBA betting analysis before tip-off. Make sure you subscribe to our daily podcast, “Nothing But Bets” on Apple PodcastsSpotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Without further ado, let’s dive into our favorite NBA spread bets for the Monday's postseason slate.

Boston Celtics (-4.5) vs. Milwaukee Bucks

This series is going to be a war, folks. Two of the best defenses in the Eastern Conference square off in the conference semifinals, and I can’t wait to watch it all unfold. So much star power and intrigue flows from both sides, but the absence of Khris Middleton looms large throughout. For the Celtics, they will be keying in on Giannis Antetokounmpo throughout the series. The question is, can Giannis break through the Celtics’ elite defense and change this potential outcome entirely? It’s certainly something to monitor in Game 1 and beyond, but we’re wagering on the home team here. Boston has the all-around versatility to make it tough on Milwaukee, plus Middleton not being out there is a massive blow for the Bucks’ offensive firepower. In the end, confidently hammer Boston to cover the 4.5-point spread.

Pick: Celtics -4.5

Player Props: Jayson Tatum over 30.5 points, Giannis Antetokounmpo over 30.5 points, Jaylen Brown over 23.5 points, Jrue Holiday over 6.5 assists

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Golden State Warriors (-2.5)

Will the Warriors immediately steal away homecourt advantage from Memphis in Game 1? Honestly, it’s a very real possibility for a multitude of reasons. If Stephen Curry and the Warriors’ offense find their perimeter mojo early on, Memphis is in big trouble. The Grizzlies certainly can match this explosive potential from the Warriors with Ja Morant and other scorers, but Golden State’s new “Death Lineup” has the opportunity to keep Memphis on its heels early and often. I’m predicting this series to go the distance for seven games, but count me in for the Warriors stealing the first of what should be many incredible games.

Pick: Warriors -2.5

Player Props: Ja Morant over 25.5 points, Dillon Brooks over 18.5 points, Darymond Green over 7.5 assists, Stephen Curry over 3.5 threes

Looking to go to the hottest concerts, sports, theater & family shows near you? Get 100% guaranteed tickets to more than 125,000 live events from TicketSmarter, the official ticket marketplace of BasketballNews.com. Order online now!