NBA Expert Picks and Best Bets | Jan 18

Check out our NBA sports betting picks for the games scheduled on January 18, 2024. In this edition, we'll provide you with expert insights and predictions for three exciting matchups, along with the latest odds from top sportsbooks.

First up, the Memphis Grizzlies face the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center. The Timberwolves, led by the dynamic Anthony Edwards, have been on an impressive run and are strong favorites in this contest. We'll break down the game and offer our best bet on whether the Timberwolves can cover the -11.5 spread.

Next, the Indiana Pacers take on the Sacramento Kings at the Golden 1 Center. Both teams are coming off recent losses and are eager to bounce back. We'll analyze their strengths and weaknesses to provide you with a winning pick for the game, with the Kings favored at -8.5.

Lastly, the Oklahoma City Thunder go head-to-head with the Utah Jazz at the Delta Center. The Thunder's high-scoring offense faces off against the Jazz's solid defense, making this matchup intriguing. We'll assess the odds and make a prediction on whether the Thunder can cover the -3 spread.

With valuable insights and odds from FanDuel, BetMGM, and DraftKings, our goal is to help you make informed bets and enhance your NBA viewing experience. Let's dive into the analysis and find some winning picks for these exciting NBA clashes!

Minnesota -11.5 | -110 at FanDuel

In this matchup between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 18, 2024, at the Target Center, the Timberwolves come in as strong favorites with an -11.5 spread according to FanDuel.

Minnesota, with a solid 28-11 record, has been on an impressive run, led by rising star Anthony Edwards. In their recent victory against the Clippers, Edwards showcased his scoring prowess with 33 points and 6 assists. The Timberwolves boast an efficient offense, shooting nearly 49% from the field and averaging 113.1 points per game. Their solid defense, allowing just 107.3 points per game, has made them a formidable force in the NBA.

On the other hand, the Grizzlies, with a 15-25 record, have struggled to find consistency. While they secured a win against the Warriors in their last outing, their season has been marked by ups and downs. Memphis averages 108.3 points per game and faces a significant challenge against the Timberwolves' stout defense.

Considering the Timberwolves' recent form and their home-court advantage, they appear poised to cover the -11.5 spread at FanDuel. Expect Minnesota's balanced attack and strong defensive presence to lead them to a convincing victory in this matchup.

Kings -8.5 | -105 at BetMGM

In this matchup between the Indiana Pacers and the Sacramento Kings on January 18, 2024, at the Golden 1 Center, the Kings come in as the favorites with a -8.5 spread according to BetMGM.

The Kings, with a 23-17 record, have shown their offensive prowess this season, led by De'Aaron Fox. In their recent game against the Suns, Fox scored 33 points, showcasing his scoring ability. Sacramento averages 118.2 points per game, making them a high-scoring team in the NBA.

On the other hand, the Pacers, also with a 23-17 record, are coming off a tough loss to the Jazz. Indiana's offense has been solid this season, averaging 125.6 points per game, which leads the league in scoring. However, their recent defensive struggles, allowing 132 points to the Jazz, might pose a challenge against the Kings.

Considering the Kings' home-court advantage and their offensive firepower, they appear poised to cover the -8.5 spread at BetMGM. Sacramento's ability to score consistently, combined with their defense, should give them an edge in this matchup. While the Pacers can put up points, they may find it challenging to keep pace with the Kings on the road. Expect Sacramento to secure a victory and cover the spread in this contest.

Thunder -3 | -110 at DraftKings

In the upcoming clash between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Utah Jazz on January 18, 2024, at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, DraftKings favors the Thunder with a -3 spread.

The Thunder, boasting a 27-13 record, aim to bounce back from a recent loss to the Clippers. Despite the defeat, Oklahoma City has shown its offensive prowess throughout the season, averaging 121.9 points per game, ranking third in the NBA. They are efficient shooters, hitting 50.5% from the field.

On the other hand, the Jazz, with a 22-20 record, are coming off a dominant victory against the Pacers, where Lauri Markkanen played a pivotal role, scoring 32 points. Utah's offense has been solid, averaging 116.8 points per game.

Considering the Thunder's scoring ability and their recent performance, they appear poised to cover the -3 spread at DraftKings. Oklahoma City's offensive efficiency, along with their defensive pressure, may pose challenges for the Jazz. While Utah can put up points, the Thunder's defense may limit their scoring opportunities.

Expect Oklahoma City to secure a victory and cover the -3 spread in what could be a closely contested game.