The NBA season is starting to heat up as there are many players that are turning in strong performances to help their teams climb up the standings. With Christmas quickly approaching, many teams are starting to find their groove.
Here’s a look at the five top NBA player props picks for Friday:
Joel Embiid Over 10.5 Rebounds (+112)
Warriors vs. 76ers Predictions
The Philadelphia big man is firmly established after missing some time in November with an injury. With a big spot against the defending champion Golden State Warriors, Embiid and the 76ers will be eager to put their best foot forward. In three of Philadelphia’s last five games, Embiid has posted 11 or more rebounds.
Golden State doesn’t have too many players on the post that will be able to match up well with Embiid. With the number of jump shots Golden State takes, there will be plenty of spots for Embiid to pull down some rebounds.
Donovan Mitchell Over 27.5 Points (-118)
Pacers vs. Cavaliers Predictions
The Cleveland Cavaliers picked up a capable scorer when they brought in Mitchell from the Jazz in the offseason. He has been consistent in Cleveland as well, putting up 29.2 points per game while shooting 50 percent from the field. The Cavaliers guard will also receive plenty of opportunities Friday night against the Pacers.
Mitchell has taken 20 or more shots in his past five games. During those appearances, Mitchell scored 28 or more four times.

Julius Randle Over 9.5 Rebounds (-104)
The Bulls and Knicks met in an overtime thriller early this week, with New York edging out a 128-120 overtime win. New York will be eager to replicate that performance, especially since this game will be at home. The Knicks were able to lean on Randle, who finished with 31 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists in 46 minutes.
New York will be able to count on Randle’s rebounding again. He has finished with double-digit rebounds in two of his past four games.
Nikola Jokic Under 25.5 Points (-115)
Nuggets vs. Lakers Predictions
Jokic doesn’t have to worry about carrying the entire workload against the Los Angeles Lakers. The Nuggets forward is an excellent passer who had 14 assists in the team’s last meeting with the Lakers in October. Los Angeles has still had its share of struggles on defense; the Lakers rank 25th in the league by allowing 116.6 points per game.
Jokic will spread the wealth and while he will get close to the number, Jokic will fall just short of 26 points.
Damian Lillard Over 4.5 3-Pointers (+114)
Trail Blazers vs. Mavericks Predictions
The Mavericks defense has struggled defending the 3-point line this season. That will make Portland star guard Lillard happy to hear. In the five games Lillard has played in since returning from injury, he has made five or more 3-pointers four times.
Lillard has also been an active scorer, putting up 30 or more points five times.