Monday NBA Best Bets Jan. 26: Is the total too high in Chicago?

Last Updated on January 26, 2026 10:10 am by Anthony Rome

Our Monday NBA Best Bets Jan. 26 column explores three selections on the slate, including whether or not the total is too high in tonight’s Lakers vs. Bulls matchup in Chicago.

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NBA Best Bet: Cavs -6 (vs. Magic)

Cleveland is playing solid basketball right now with momentum, and Orlando’s defense has been inconsistent this month. The Cavs historically match up well with the Magic’s style — Cleveland has a deeper roster with a more efficient shooting attack and can attack mismatches at multiple positions. Orlando tends to struggle guarding quality scoring wings, and Cleveland’s perimeter shooting often forces rotations that open up open looks.

The bookmakers currently have Cleveland favored and expect control of this game; backing them to cover the 6 points.

NBA Best Bet: Hornets -3 (vs. 76ers)

This one is interesting because according to standard projections, the 76ers might be slight underdogs or close games, but recent betting trends and public discussions point toward the Hornets as a sleeper pick. Multiple outlets are highlighting Charlotte with value in moneylines or small spreads — and despite Philly’s name brand the Hornets are playing strong at home, defending better around the arc and forcing turnovers that Philly can’t always cleanly convert.

Plus, weather-related scheduling changes and travel impacts for Philly could play a role here — the Sixers had to adjust their trip due to storm disruptions which can affect preparation and routines.

NBA Best Bets: Lakers/Bulls under 235

This total is sitting up toward the mid-230s in multiple books, but both teams have shown tempo and scoring suppression trends in recent games (T-25 scoring averages below many of these totals). Los Angeles has some slow-down defensive sets that shorten possessions, and Chicago plays a more deliberate half-court style. This combination often results in fewer total possessions and lower scoring games.

Add in Chicago’s recent emotional game (jersey retirement energy but possibly fatigue) and LA’s balanced but not blow-out offense, and the under becomes one of the sharper totals on the board.