The NBA action brings us an 11-game slate today, and here you can take a look at the NBA Picks for Wednesday 1/29/2025.
Brooklyn Nets vs Charlotte Hornets Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Nets at Hornets at 7 PM ET
The Brooklyn Nets are currently experiencing a significant downturn in performance, having lost 12 out of their last 13 games. They are eager to end a seven-game losing streak following a disappointing defeat to the Kings, with a final score of 110-96 on Monday. D'Angelo Russell was the standout player for the team, scoring 19 points, while Jalen Wilson and Tosan Evbuomwan contributed 15 points each. Day'Ron Sharpe added 12 points, along with 10 rebounds and three assists from the bench. However, Wilson struggled with his shooting, making only four of 16 attempts from the field and failing to convert any of his six three-point attempts. Noah Clowney managed just two of seven from the field, and Ziaire Williams scored five points on one of seven shooting.
The Charlotte Hornets have faced a challenging period recently, suffering losses in three of their last four games. They are looking to regain their momentum after a close 112-107 loss to the Lakers on Monday. Miles Bridges was the team's leading scorer with 26 points, complemented by eight rebounds and four assists. Josh Okogie contributed significantly with 19 points off the bench, while Josh Green added 15 points. Unfortunately, LaMelo Ball managed only seven points in nine minutes before leaving the game with a sprained ankle.
The Pick:
These days, backing either team with assurance is quite challenging; however, the Hornets have certainly revitalized their performance in the past few weeks. It is not often that the Hornets are regarded as favorites this season, but given their recent form, relative health, and the advantage of playing on their home court, I find myself inclined to favor the Hornets in this situation.
Detroit Pistons vs Indiana Pacers Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Pistons at Pacers at 7 PM ET
The Detroit Pistons are currently struggling, having lost four of their last six contests. They are looking to avert a third consecutive defeat after a disappointing 110-91 loss to the Cavaliers during their away game on Monday. Cade Cunningham was the leading scorer for the team, finishing with 22 points and seven assists. Malik Beasley contributed 19 points off the bench, and Jalen Duren added a solid performance with 12 points, 16 rebounds, and three blocks.
Recently, the Indiana Pacers have shown remarkable form, winning nine of their last eleven contests. They are motivated to continue this success after a decisive 136-98 victory against the Spurs in Paris on Saturday. Tyrese Haliburton led the scoring with 28 points on an efficient 11 of 17 shooting. Furthermore, Pascal Siakam added 23 points, complemented by 11 rebounds and three blocks, while Andrew Nembhard contributed significantly with 15 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists.
The Pick:
The Pistons find themselves in urgent need of a win to regain momentum in their season, yet their form has been lacking when compared to the Pacers, who are enjoying a period of strong performance. Furthermore, the Pacers should be adequately rested, as they have not competed since Saturday. Consequently, I expect the Pacers to achieve victory and cover the modest line at their home venue.
Toronto Raptors vs Washington Wizards Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Raptors at Wizards at 7 PM ET
The Toronto Raptors have demonstrated significant improvement, achieving six victories in their last seven games. They are now aiming for a fifth consecutive win following their 113-104 triumph over the Pelicans at home on Monday. Scottie Barnes was the standout performer, contributing 21 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists. Jakob Poeltl also made a notable impact with 21 points, 14 rebounds, and five assists, while RJ Barrett supported the effort with 17 points and six assists.
The Washington Wizards find themselves in a dire situation, having suffered losses in 18 of their last 20 games. They are looking to break a 14-game losing streak after a heavy defeat against the Mavericks, who triumphed 130-108 in their latest road match on Monday. Bilal Coulibaly led the scoring for the Wizards with 16 points and five assists, while Jordan Poole contributed 15 points along with six assists. Corey Kispert also played a role off the bench, adding 15 points. However, Kyle Kuzma struggled, scoring only seven points on three of eleven shooting, and Kyshawn George managed just three points on one of six shooting attempts.
The Pick:
The Raptors have revitalized their performance, achieving six wins out of their last seven games. They are confident in their chances against the Wizards, who are currently on a disheartening 14-game losing streak. Although the Raptors were expected to be favored in this matchup, I anticipated a greater point differential. Nonetheless, I foresee the Raptors winning by a double-digit margin, which leads me to feel assured about the point spread in this instance.
Chicago Bulls vs Boston Celtics Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Bulls at Celtics at 7:30 PM ET
The Chicago Bulls have been struggling recently, suffering defeats in seven of their last nine contests. Nevertheless, they achieved a much-needed victory, defeating the Nuggets 129-121 in an unexpected outcome on Monday. Zach LaVine led the charge with 21 points and six assists, shooting six of 13 from the field. Nikola Vucevic contributed significantly with 20 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, while Lonzo Ball scored 18 points and Josh Giddey provided 12 points and 10 assists.
The Boston Celtics have been performing reasonably well, having secured victories in three of their last five games. However, they aim to recover from a disappointing loss to the Rockets, where they narrowly lost 114-112 at home on Monday. Jaylen Brown was the standout player, scoring 28 points, while Jayson Tatum contributed 19 points along with seven assists. Additionally, Luke Kornet made a significant impact, scoring 18 points on an impressive eight-of-nine shooting.
The Pick:
It is essential to review the lineups prior to the tipoff, particularly due to the significant number of players dealing with injuries. Nevertheless, the Celtics are clear favorites in this home matchup, and I anticipate a victory for them. However, the Bulls have the potential to keep the game competitive, especially if they replicate their performance from Monday's victory against the Nuggets. I predict a win for the Celtics but expect the Bulls to remain close enough to secure a backdoor cover.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Miami Heat Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Cavaliers at Heat at 7:30 PM ET
Recently, the Cleveland Cavaliers have shown signs of struggle, losing five of their last nine contests. Nevertheless, they are motivated to regain their winning form after a commanding 110-91 home victory over the Pistons on Monday. Darius Garland led the charge with 22 points and seven assists, while Donovan Mitchell contributed 21 points and six assists. Jarrett Allen also made a significant impact with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists, and Evan Mobley added 11 points, 14 rebounds, and two blocks. The only slight concern from the game was Georges Niang, who managed only three points on one of nine shooting.
The Miami Heat have been struggling, with five losses in their last nine games. Despite this, they are determined to achieve a third straight win after narrowly defeating the Magic 125-119 in double overtime on Monday. Tyler Herro was instrumental in the victory, scoring 30 points and providing eight rebounds and 12 assists. Bam Adebayo contributed significantly with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists, while Kel'el Ware added 19 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing an impressive shooting accuracy of seven out of eight attempts.
The Pick:
The Heat secured a victory against the Cavaliers on December 8, winning 122-113, but I doubt that a similar result will occur in the forthcoming game. The Cavaliers have shown some inconsistency in their recent performances; nevertheless, they are still far more capable than the team currently facing numerous challenges. The odds for this contest seem appropriate, prompting me to believe that the Cavaliers will bounce back with a decisive win, supported by an impressive showing from Mitchell.
Denver Nuggets vs New York Knicks Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Nuggets at Knicks at 7:30 PM ET
The Denver Nuggets are currently exhibiting strong form, having won eight out of their last eleven games. Nevertheless, they will be determined to avert a third straight loss after falling to the Bulls in a 129-121 defeat on the road on Monday. Nikola Jokic was instrumental in the game, recording a triple-double with 33 points, 12 rebounds, and 14 assists. Furthermore, Christian Braun made a notable contribution with 28 points on 11 of 15 shooting, while Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray each scored 18 points.
The New York Knicks have been performing well, having secured victories in five of their last six games. They are now aiming for a fifth consecutive win following a dominant 143-106 triumph over the Grizzlies on Monday. Mikal Bridges was the standout player, contributing 28 points and six assists, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 24 points and 11 rebounds. Jalen Brunson also made a significant contribution with 20 points and six assists.
The Pick:
The Knicks have shown significant improvement in recent weeks, demonstrating impressive performance in their substantial victory against the well-performing Grizzlies on Monday. While both teams present compelling arguments, the uncertainty surrounding Hart's status for the Knicks suggests that the Nuggets, as underdogs, offer considerable value in this matchup.
Sacramento Kings vs Philadelphia 76ers Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Kings at 76ers at 7:30 PM ET
The Sacramento Kings faced a loss to the Knicks but triumphed over the Nets. At present, the Kings are scoring an average of 117 points with a shooting accuracy of 47.4 percent, while they allow 115 points at a shooting rate of 46.4 percent. De’Aaron Fox is averaging 25.1 points along with 5 rebounds, and DeMar DeRozan is contributing 21.8 points and 3.9 rebounds.
The Philadelphia 76ers secured victories against both the Bulls and the Lakers. Currently, the team is averaging 108.1 points per game with a shooting percentage of 45 percent, while conceding an average of 112.4 points at a shooting percentage of 48.8 percent. Tyrese Maxey is contributing significantly with an average of 26.6 points and 6 assists, whereas Joel Embiid is averaging 24.4 points along with 7.9 rebounds.
The Pick:
The Sacramento Kings are enjoying a remarkable stretch, winning seven of their last ten games, marking their best performance this season. Nevertheless, the recent trade request from De’Aaron Fox has cast a shadow over the team, as such developments can significantly influence locker room morale and overall gameplay. Should Fox maintain his commitment, it raises concerns about the focus of his teammates regarding their own prospects. It would not be unexpected for the Kings to struggle during their away games. On the other hand, the 76ers have managed to secure three consecutive victories, a feat that should not be overlooked. I am inclined to support the 76ers and their favorable scoring opportunities.
LA Clippers vs San Antonio Spurs Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Clippers at Spurs at 8 PM ET
The LA Clippers achieved a win against the Bucks but were defeated by the Suns. They are currently averaging 110 points with a shooting percentage of 46.8, while their opponents score an average of 106.8 points on 45.1 percent shooting. Norman Powell is averaging 23.9 points and 3.5 rebounds, while James Harden contributes an average of 21.7 points and 5.9 rebounds.
The San Antonio Spurs experienced a loss to the Heat and recorded a split in their matchups with the Pacers. At present, the Spurs are scoring an average of 111.7 points, achieving a shooting accuracy of 45.5 percent, while allowing 112 points with a shooting percentage of 45.4. Victor Wembanyama is leading the team with an average of 24.7 points and 10.7 rebounds, and Devin Vassell is contributing with 15.8 points and 3.1 assists per game.
The Pick:
The Spurs are making their way back from Paris and have had a four-day hiatus from competition, potentially affecting the flow of a young team. In contrast, the LA Clippers are at their healthiest point this season and have managed to cover the spread in seven out of their last ten matchups. Furthermore, the Clippers are seeking retribution after their disappointing loss to the Spurs on New Year's Eve, where they were defeated 122-86. I suggest placing your confidence in the Clippers as a sensible option.
Dallas Mavericks vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Mavericks at Pelicans at 8 PM ET
The Dallas Mavericks faced a loss to the Celtics but triumphed over the Wizards. At present, the Mavericks are scoring an average of 115.1 points with a shooting accuracy of 47.7 percent, while they allow 112.2 points at a shooting rate of 45.3 percent. Luka Doncic is averaging 28.1 points and 7.8 assists, while Kyrie Irving contributes an average of 24.4 points and 4.5 rebounds.
The New Orleans Pelicans suffered defeats against both the Raptors and the Hornets. Currently, the team is averaging 109.2 points per game with a shooting percentage of 44.4, while conceding an average of 117.8 points at a shooting percentage of 48.3. Zion Williamson is contributing an average of 22.5 points and 8.5 rebounds, whereas Brandon Ingram is averaging 22.2 points and 5.6 rebounds.
The Pick:
I remain skeptical about the Mavericks due to their current injury concerns, which leads me to refrain from betting on them while they are away. Although the New Orleans Pelicans are also dealing with injuries, they are in a better health position than they have been throughout the season. Notably, five of their twelve victories have occurred in the past nineteen days, and they have secured three consecutive wins at home. I will support the Pelicans to cover the spread.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs Phoenix Suns Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Timberwolves at Suns at 9 PM ET
The Minnesota Timberwolves emerged victorious against the Hawks and the Nuggets. They are currently averaging 110.6 points per game with a shooting percentage of 46.2, while their opponents score an average of 108.1 points on 45.4 percent shooting. Anthony Edwards is performing exceptionally, averaging 26.3 points and 5.7 rebounds, while Julius Randle contributes with averages of 18.9 points and 4.6 assists.
The Phoenix Suns triumphed over the Clippers and the Wizards in their recent matchups. The team is posting an average of 112.8 points, achieving a shooting accuracy of 47.4 percent, while allowing 113.6 points with a shooting percentage of 46.1. Kevin Durant leads the team with an average of 27.2 points and 6.4 rebounds, and Devin Booker follows closely with averages of 25.5 points and 3.9 rebounds.
The Pick:
The Suns have demonstrated their strongest performance of the season thus far, although many of their victories have been against teams that are not playoff contenders. The Minnesota Timberwolves have shown inconsistency and continue to manage several injuries. Additionally, the Suns have suffered five consecutive losses to the Timberwolves, creating a potential opportunity for retribution. Ultimately, the outcome may hinge on whether Durant participates, given his thumb injury. It is advisable to review the injury report prior to placing any bets. I still favor the Suns at home on Wednesday.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Golden State Warriors Prediction 1/29/25 NBA Picks
Thunder at Warriors at 10 PM ET
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a victory against the Trail Blazers but suffered a defeat to the Mavericks. Currently, the Thunder are averaging 116.6 points per game with a shooting percentage of 47.4, while they permit an average of 104.3 points on 43.1 percent shooting. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the team with an average of 32 points and 6.1 assists, and Jalen Williams contributes with an average of 21 points and 5.6 rebounds.
The Golden State Warriors suffered a defeat against the Lakers but managed to beat the Jazz. They are currently averaging 111.3 points with a shooting percentage of 44.7, while their opponents score an average of 111.5 points on 45.9 percent shooting. Stephen Curry's performance includes an average of 22.3 points and 6.4 assists, while Andrew Wiggins averages 17.1 points and 2.3 assists.
The Pick:
The Thunder's cover percentage stands at an impressive 69 percent, the best in the league, which solidifies their position as the preferred choice for this selection. Furthermore, they have covered the spread in 15 of their last 21 games when favored by ten points or more. On paper, this matchup suggests a dominant win for the Thunder, and their track record in covering the spread only strengthens this assertion. I expect OKC to secure a comfortable victory.
Oliver’s Pick Pelicans +2
AUTHOR: Oliver Zivic
