NBA Playoffspicks today: Friday's best bets include Raptors vs. Cavaliers play [4/17/2026]

Today’s NBA picks for April 17, 2026 are here, with Raptors vs. Cavaliers and Hornets vs. Magic among the top plays identified by our model across Friday’s NBA playoffs slate.

Dimers’ predictive analytics engine runs 24/7, scanning the latest basketball odds to find top betting edges. The result? Data-backed picks that help Dimers Pro members make smarter decisions.

List of NBA playoffs picks tonight [4/17, updated 7:01PM ET]

Below, you’ll find today’s best basketball bets, ranked by edge for Friday, April 17, 2026.

Raptors +8 (-106)

• Edge: 3.1%
• Probability: 54.6%
• Matchup: Raptors vs. Cavaliers (1:00PM ET, Saturday)

Our model has identified value on Raptors +8 at -106 odds. A 54.6% probability produces an edge of 3.1%, making this the strongest play for today's NBA slate.

Hornets ML (-146)

• Edge: 3.1%
• Probability: 62.5%
• Matchup: Hornets vs. Magic (7:30PM ET, Friday)

Hornets ML carries a 3.1% edge and a probability of 62.5% at -146 odds, according to our model.

NBA Playoffs best bets summary: Friday, 4/17/2026

As of 7:01PM ET, here are our top NBA bets by edge recommended by our model:

List of upcoming NBA playoffs games to bet on [4/17/2026]

• Hornets vs. Magic (7:30PM ET, Friday)
• Warriors vs. Suns (10:00PM ET, Friday)
• Raptors vs. Cavaliers (1:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Timberwolves vs. Nuggets (3:30PM ET, Saturday)
• Hawks vs. Knicks (6:00PM ET, Saturday)

Conclusion

Our NBA best bets are locked and loaded for April 17, 2026, featuring plays such as Raptors +8 and Hornets ML. Powered by advanced simulations, these picks are here to boost your betting game.

Our predictions are drawn from current data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice, head to our Responsible Gambling hub.

All odds and probabilities in this article are correct and accurate at the time of publication.