NBA Expert Picks and Best Bets | Jan 10

In the upcoming NBA night, three exciting matchups are set to unfold, offering prime opportunities for sports bettors to explore. The Philadelphia 76ers, despite a recent setback against the Jazz, showcase a robust offense averaging 119.5 points per game, and they now face the Atlanta Hawks, known for their offensive prowess. FanDuel's odds favor the Hawks with a -2.5 spread, and the game promises a showdown between the 76ers' scoring ability and the Hawks' defense.

The New Orleans Pelicans, fresh off a dominant win over the Kings, collide with the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Center. With CJ McCollum leading the Pelicans' charge, they aim to exploit the defensive vulnerabilities of the Warriors, who recently struggled against the Raptors. BetMGM positions the Pelicans as -0.5 favorites, setting the stage for an intriguing clash.

The Oklahoma City Thunder, riding high after a solid victory against the Wizards, take on the Miami Heat at the Kaseya Center. DraftKings' odds favor the Thunder with a -4.5 spread, highlighting their offensive prowess against the consistent performance of the Heat. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge, the Thunder look to extend their impressive run.

As the NBA betting action unfolds, these matchups present enticing betting opportunities, blending offensive firepower, defensive strategies, and the unpredictable nature of professional basketball.

76ers +2.5 | -110 at FanDuel

In an intriguing NBA matchup, the Philadelphia 76ers (23-12) visit the Atlanta Hawks (14-21) at the State Farm Arena on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. The 76ers are coming off a 120-109 loss to the Jazz, despite a commendable effort from Tyrese Maxey, who contributed 25 points and 9 assists. Philadelphia's robust offense, averaging 119.5 points per game, faces the Hawks' defense, known for allowing 123.7 points per game.

On the other side, the Hawks, after a 117-110 loss to the Magic, aim to bounce back led by Trae Young, who scored 31 points and provided 9 assists. Atlanta's offensive prowess (122.2 points per game) confronts the 76ers' defense, limiting opponents to 111.3 points per game.

FanDuel's odds favor the Hawks with a -2.5 spread. Considering the recent struggles of the 76ers and the home advantage for the Hawks, Atlanta appears poised to cover the spread. The Hawks' offensive capabilities, coupled with Philadelphia's defensive vulnerabilities, might tip the balance in favor of Atlanta, making them a solid pick to cover the spread.

The odds provided by FanDuel position the 76ers as +2.5 underdogs. While the 76ers have the talent to keep the game competitive, the Hawks, with their offensive firepower, are likely to secure the win and cover the spread on their home court.

Pelicans -0.5 | -105 at BetMGM

In an exciting NBA showdown, the New Orleans Pelicans (22-15) are set to face the Golden State Warriors (17-19) at the Chase Center in San Francisco, CA, on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. The Pelicans are coming off a dominant 133-100 victory against the Kings, with CJ McCollum leading the charge with an impressive 30 points on 68.8% shooting.

On the other hand, the Warriors suffered a 133-118 defeat to the Raptors, despite Klay Thompson's solid performance with 25 points. Golden State struggled defensively, allowing Toronto to shoot 58.5% from the field.

New Orleans, with a record of 22-15, boasts a potent offense, averaging 115.8 points per game. The Pelicans' efficient shooting, coupled with their ability to secure rebounds, poses a challenge for the Warriors' defense, which is allowing 116.9 points per game.

BetMGM's odds have the Pelicans as -0.5 favorites. Given New Orleans' recent form and offensive capabilities, they are well-positioned to cover the spread against the Warriors. The Pelicans' well-rounded performance, along with the defensive struggles of the Warriors, makes them a solid pick to cover the spread and secure a road victory.

Thunder -4.5 | -110 at DraftKings

In a compelling matchup, the Oklahoma City Thunder (24-11) are set to face the Miami Heat (21-15) at the Kaseya Center in Miami, FL, on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. The Thunder are coming off a solid 136-128 victory against the Wizards, where Shai Gilgeous-Alexander played a crucial role with 32 points on 64.7% shooting.

Meanwhile, the Heat secured a 120-113 win over the Rockets, led by Tyler Herro's impressive performance with 28 points. Miami displayed efficient shooting, finishing the game at a 50.0% field goal percentage.

Oklahoma City, with a record of 24-11, has been a force on offense, averaging 122.2 points per game. The Thunder's ability to score efficiently, combined with their defensive prowess, makes them a formidable opponent.

Miami, at 21-15, has shown consistency on both ends of the court, with a balanced offensive and defensive performance. The Heat's ability to share the ball and capitalize on scoring opportunities positions them well against the Thunder.

DraftKings' odds have the Thunder as -4.5 favorites. Considering Oklahoma City's recent form and offensive capabilities, they have a good chance of covering the spread against the Heat.

However, Miami's competitiveness and home-court advantage could make it a closely contested game. The +4.5 spread favors the Heat as potential underdogs who could keep the game tight and possibly cover but it will be tough against the Thunder who are playing really well right now.