NBA First Basket Pick Today (Nov. 2): Zach Edey

The hot streak continues. Less than two weeks into the season, we’re already up over 12 units. It’s not always pretty, but trusting the process is a beautiful thing.

We’re going back to the well today with the chalkiest pick to date — Zach Edey at odds. Let’s have some fun.

Why Zach Edey For NBA First Basket

Zach Edey is the most imposing jump-ball option on tonight’s slate. At 7-foot-4 with a massive wingspan, he gives Memphis a clear size edge on the opening tip against a New Orleans frontcourt that has no one who can match him, and winning the tip is half the battle in this market.

Once Memphis has the ball, Edey is the easiest look on the floor. Nearly all of his offense comes right at the rim, whether it’s a deep post seal, a lob out of the pick-and-roll or a putback. He’s averaging 7.0 points and 7.0 rebounds in about 20 minutes a night, and his work on the offensive glass gives him a second crack at the opening bucket even if the Grizzlies’ first shot doesn’t fall.

There’s a reason this is our chalkiest pick yet. Edey is still working his way back from two left ankle surgeries and his minutes are being managed, but a first basket bet only cares about the opening few possessions, when he’s fresh and on the floor. He put up 13 points in the win at Portland last week and has looked more comfortable with each outing. The price is short, but the path to cashing is about as clear as it gets.

NBA First Basket Picks Tracker

For more on how the NBA first basket market works, plus jump ball and opening-play strategy, see our NBA first basket guide.