Philadelphia 76ers (15-22) vs Oklahoma City Thunder (32-6)
Game Info: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 7:00 pm (Wells Fargo Center)
Betting Odds: Philadelphia 76ers +11 -- Over/Under: 218 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: NBA League Pass
The Oklahoma City Thunder (32-6) are set to face the Philadelphia 76ers (15-22) on January 14th, 2025, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. The Thunder, leading the Western Conference, boast a formidable defense, allowing just 103.4 points per game—the second-best in the league. Their point differential of +12.7 underscores their dominance this season.
In contrast, the 76ers have struggled, currently sitting in 11th place in the Eastern Conference. They've lost their last five games. Offensively, Philadelphia averages 107.4 points per game, ranking them fourth-worst in the league. Injuries have been a concern, with Joel Embiid appearing in just 13 games thus far. Despite acquiring Paul George, the team has yet to find consistent success. Given the Thunder's superior form and the 76ers' ongoing struggles, Oklahoma City is favored to secure a victory in this matchup.
Paul George Over 6.5 Rebounds
Paul George has been a consistent contributor to the Philadelphia 76ers' rebounding efforts during this NBA season. He’s currently averaging 6.0 rebounds per game with an average of 32.1 minutes played per game. His rebounding performance includes an average of 5.2 defensive rebounds and 0.8 offensive rebounds per game. Notably, on January 10, 2025, George recorded a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds in a game against the Orlando Magic.
With the consistent absence of Joel Embid this Sixers team has had to look other ways when it comes to rebounding. In Paul George's last three games, we've seen him secure 9 rebounds against the Phoenix Suns, 11 rebounds against the New Orleans Pelicans, and 10 rebounds against the Orlando Magic. Now he faces this Oklahoma City Thunder team that is giving up 55.9 rebounds per game to opposing teams which is the second most in the league. With the way Paul George has been rebounding the ball, this should be another great spot to take his over.
Tyrese Maxey Over 26.5 Points
Tyrese Maxey has been a standout scorer for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2024-25 NBA season. He’s currently averaging 25.7 points per game, ranking 8th in the league. In addition to his scoring, Maxey contributes 3.4 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game.
Don't get me wrong this is a tough matchup for Tyrese Maxey and this Sixers offense due to how well the Thunder play on the defensive side of the ball. But I can't help but continue to take Maxey’s overs on points with the way he's been playing. In his last four games, he's cleared this number of 26.5 points with no problem. In a game that I expect the Sixers to be down most of Maxey will need to be extremely aggressive on the offensive end for the Sixers to keep up.
Jalen Williams Under 21.5 Points
Jalen Williams is averaging 20.6 points per game, ranking 33rd in the league. In addition to his scoring, Williams contributes 5.7 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 48.0%. Notably, on January 9, 2025, he registered 25 points, five rebounds, and nine assists in a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
At the beginning of the season, I was cashing in on taking the over on Jalen William's points night in night out but as of late he just hasn't been the same scorer as we saw earlier this season. In his last 10 games he's only scored over 20 points just once. It seems like this Thunder team is looking to spread the ball around more rather it be the SGA and Jalen Williams show. I wouldn't be surprised if I'm back on the Jalen Williams train sometime this season but at this point, I'm looking to fade him.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
