Saturday features 6 games on the NBA slate with start times ranging from 12:00 PM ET to 8:30 PM ET. Can the Pacers cover the 1.5-point spread as home underdogs against the Hawks? Will the 76ers defeat the Pelicans by 10+ points at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia? I’ll pick both contests below. Read on for our Saturday NBA Best Bets Jan. 31 article.
NBA Best Bet: Atlanta Hawks -1.5 over Indiana Pacers
I like the Hawks here. Atlanta is in a good spot to cover the 1.5-point spread against Indiana because of their stellar performance away from home. The Hawks have been a reliable bet in unfamiliar environments, carrying a 16-11 ATS record as the road team this season. Their steadiness is especially evident in their scheduling trends; the Hawks are 17-15 ATS when playing on 1 day of rest and an impressive 9-4 ATS when playing with a rest disadvantage this year. Given their ability to thrive in these specific situational spots, expect Atlanta to maintain their edge and secure a hard-fought and narrow road victory. Final score projection: ATLANTA HAWKS 118, INDIANA PACERS 114.
NBA Best Bet: New Orleans Pelicans +9.5 over Philadelphia 76ers
I’d take New Orleans in this game. The Pelicans are well-positioned to cover the 9.5-point spread against the 76ers due to their recent surge and situational resilience. New Orleans is a sharp 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games overall and has proven they can handle fatigue, going 8-3 ATS when playing with a rest disadvantage this year. The Pelicans’ momentum is key, as they are 8-4 ATS following a win, and they have historically matched up well with the Sixers, posting a 7-3 ATS record in their last 10 meetings with Philadelphia. Expect a gritty performance that keeps this contest within single digits. Final score projection: PHILADELPHIA 76ERS 114, NEW ORLEANS PELICANS 108.
Saturday NBA Best Bets Jan. 31
- Atlanta Hawks -1.5
- New Orleans Pelicans +9.5