...
...
Read Article
NBA first basket picks and predictions for Playoffs today, Sunday, April 19, 2026
Updated: | First published:
Written by Jason Bevilacqua, Head of Content and Communities
Get first basket predictions today backed by expert analysis of NBA slate on 4/19.
Our NBA first basket picks and predictions for today—Sunday, April 19, 2026—are live with the Spurs' Victor Wembanyama projected as the most likely player to score first.
These projections make use of detailed first basket stats, including player efficiency, shot frequency, and expected starting lineups, forming part of our daily NBA player projections.
Wembanyama, Franz Wagner and Deni Avdija lead Sunday’s most likely first basket scorers, while we also spotlight tonight's best first basket value picks by comparing real-time odds to model-generated probabilities.
NBA Playoffs first basket predictions tonight (April 19, 2026)
| Player | Team | Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Victor Wembanyama | Spurs | 17.1% |
| Franz Wagner | Magic | 13.5% |
| Deni Avdija | Trail Blazers | 13.5% |
| Jalen Duren | Pistons | 11.8% |
| Cade Cunningham | Pistons | 11.7% |
| Desmond Bane | Magic | 10.5% |
| Jrue Holiday | Trail Blazers | 10.4% |
| De'Aaron Fox | Spurs | 10.4% |
| Paolo Banchero | Magic | 10.3% |
| Tobias Harris | Pistons | 10.2% |
| Scoot Henderson | Trail Blazers | 9.9% |
| Duncan Robinson | Pistons | 9.2% |
| Toumani Camara | Trail Blazers | 8.8% |
| Stephon Castle | Spurs | 8.4% |
| Jalen Suggs | Magic | 8.1% |
NBA first basket picks today (April 19, 2026)
| Player | Team | Edge | Odds | Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franz Wagner | Magic | 1.7% | +750 | 13.5% |
| Duncan Robinson | Pistons | 1.6% | +1200 | 9.3% |
Edges represent the difference between model probability and implied odds.
For more insights on prop markets and value plays across the league, explore our full list of NBA prop bets for 4/19.
Conclusion: Betting on today's NBA first basket
For the Playoffs action onSunday, April 19, 2026, Victor Wembanyama, Franz Wagner and Deni Avdija lead our first basket projections, with Wagner shaping as the strongest value play at +750. All picks and predictions are derived from Dimers’ NBA first basket model.
For tips and resources on responsible wagering, visit our Responsible Gambling section.
Jason Bevilacqua, an expert in MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS, and NFL, delivers game previews, best bets, and props. Since 2020, as Head of Social and Community at Dimers, he has contributed insightful articles utilizing data-driven models and simulations.
Advertiser disclosure