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Read Article NBA first basket picks and predictions for Playoffs today, Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Updated: | First published:
Written by Damien Souness, Chief Experience Officer
Get first basket predictions today backed by expert analysis of NBA slate on 5/13.
Our NBA first basket picks and predictions for today—Wednesday, May 13, 2026—are live with the Cavaliers' Donovan Mitchell projected as the most likely player to score first.
These projections draw on key first basket stats, including player efficiency, shot frequency, and expected starting lineups, forming part of our daily NBA player projections.
Mitchell, Cade Cunningham and Tobias Harris lead Wednesday’s most likely first basket scorers, while we also showcase tonight's best first basket value picks by comparing real-time odds to model-generated probabilities.
NBA Playoffs first basket predictions tonight (May 13, 2026)
| Player | Team | Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Donovan Mitchell | Cavaliers | 16.1% |
| Cade Cunningham | Pistons | 13.5% |
| Tobias Harris | Pistons | 13.2% |
| Evan Mobley | Cavaliers | 10.4% |
| Jarrett Allen | Cavaliers | 9.4% |
| James Harden | Cavaliers | 9.0% |
| Jalen Duren | Pistons | 7.9% |
| Duncan Robinson | Pistons | 7.8% |
| Ausar Thompson | Pistons | 7.6% |
| Dean Wade | Cavaliers | 5.2% |
NBA first basket picks today (May 13, 2026)
| Player | Team | Edge | Odds | Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tobias Harris | Pistons | 3.7% | +950 | 13.2% |
| Duncan Robinson | Pistons | 0.6% | +1300 | 7.8% |
| James Harden | Cavaliers | 0.6% | +1100 | 9.0% |
| Dean Wade | Cavaliers | 0.4% | +2000 | 5.2% |
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 5/13.
Conclusion: Betting on today's NBA first basket
For the Playoffs action onWednesday, May 13, 2026, Donovan Mitchell, Cade Cunningham and Tobias Harris lead our first basket projections, with Harris shaping as the strongest value play at +950. All picks and predictions are derived from Dimers’ NBA first basket model.
For guidance on safer wagering habits, explore our Responsible Gambling resources.
Damien Souness is Chief Experience Officer at Cipher Sports Technology Group, helping lead sports media brands such as Dimers. He specializes in creating trustworthy and data-driven content for sports fans, with experience working for globally recognized sports and media organizations.
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