Game two of the Final Four is typically the headliner, and this one certainly fits the bill.
Michigan and Arizona have looked like two of the best teams in the country all season, with only Duke in that conversation. With the Blue Devils now out, this game is widely viewed as the one that could decide the national title.
That could create a different kind of challenge for whoever advances. Matchups like this tend to be physical and demanding, especially with both teams preferring to push tempo. Michigan and Arizona are at their best in transition, forcing opponents to defend in space while also applying pressure on the other end.
That style points toward a higher-possession game, with more scoring chances, rebounding opportunities, and overall volume.
Here’s a look at some of the best props on the board for Michigan vs. Arizona.
Elliot Cadeau Over 6.5 Assists (+105, DraftKings)
Cadeau will need to be at his best here. The Wildcats do a strong job protecting the rim, which puts added pressure on Michigan’s guards to create offense. If the Wolverines are going to generate consistent looks inside, it will start with Cadeau breaking down the defense.
He’s shown he’s capable of doing that. Cadeau has recorded at least seven assists in each of his last five games, including 10 in the Elite Eight against Tennessee. While the Volunteers don’t have Arizona’s length, they do bring a similar level of defensive discipline.
That experience should translate. Cadeau is unlikely to be overwhelmed by the moment and should have the ball in his hands enough to consistently create opportunities for others.
Motiejus Krivas Over 8.5 Rebounds (+105, FanDuel)
Krivas has been a force on the glass throughout this tournament. He pulled down 14 rebounds against Utah State and followed that with 12 against Purdue, two physical matchups that required consistent effort inside. The Wolverines present a similar challenge, which should keep Krivas’ size and presence in play throughout.
The Wolverines have had success in large part because of their rebounding, but Tommy Lloyd’s team has the personnel to match that physicality. Krivas is central to that equation and gives the Wildcats a real chance to compete on the boards.
If Arizona is going to keep this game tight, it has to hold its own on the glass for a full 40 minutes. Expect Krivas to be a major factor.
Yaxel Lendeborg Over 17.5 Points (-106, FanDuel)
Lendeborg came to Ann Arbor to play in games like this. His versatility will be critical, especially against a Wilcat defense that prioritizes taking away both the rim and the three-point line. That puts pressure on players like Lendeborg to create offense in between.
Michigan has the size to eventually generate looks inside, but Lendeborg’s ability to score from multiple areas should help open things up earlier in possessions.
Arizona’s defensive approach is similar to Illinois, forcing opponents into mid-range opportunities. The difference is in the details; the Wildcats don’t concede as many clean looks, but they are more prone to fouling.
That could matter here. Lendeborg scored 16 against Illinois while getting to the free throw line just twice. If the Wildcats are more aggressive and put him on the line more frequently, his path to this number becomes much more realistic.
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