Thursday features 8 games on the NBA slate with start times ranging from 7:00 PM ET to 9:30 PM ET. Can the Wizards cover the 2.5-point spread as home underdogs against the Bucks? Will the Rockets defeat the Hawks by 4+ points at State Farm Arena in Atlanta? I’ll pick both contests below. Read on for our Thursday NBA Best Bets Jan. 29 article.
NBA Best Bet: Washington Wizards +2.5 over Milwaukee Bucks
I like the Wizards here. Washington is primed to cover the 2.5-point spread as home underdogs and could win outright against a shorthanded Milwaukee squad on Thursday. Washington enters with significant momentum, going 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall and boasting a dominant 7-3 ATS record in their last ten meetings with the Bucks. Crucially, Milwaukee will be without star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo; the Bucks have struggled mightily in his absence, posting a dismal 3-12 straight-up record this season without him. Capitalizing on Milwaukee’s depth issues, Washington should control the pace at home. Final score projection: WASHINGTON WIZARDS 118, MILWAUKEE BUCKS 112.
NBA Best Bet: Atlanta Hawks +3.5 over Houston Rockets
I’d take Atlanta in this game. The Hawks are well-positioned to cover the 3.5-point spread as home underdogs against the Houston Rockets this Thursday. Atlanta enters this matchup with significant betting momentum, having gone 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall. What’s more, Atlanta is a solid 13-10 ATS following a victory this season. Historically, the Hawks have thrived in this specific matchup, posting a dominant 8-2 ATS record in their last ten games against the Rockets. Furthermore, Atlanta’s ability to exceed expectations at home is evident in their 7-4 ATS mark as home underdogs this season. Facing a Rockets team playing on the second night of a back-to-back, the Hawks should keep this contest tight. Final score projection: ATLANTA HAWKS 114, HOUSTON ROCKETS 112.
Thursday NBA Best Bets Jan. 29
- Washington Wizards +2.5
- Atlanta Hawks +3.5