The 2024-25 NBA regular season continues on Tuesday with another big nine-game slate for fans and punters to dive into. The first of the games will tip-off at 11:00am (AEDT), while the last is set for a 2:00pm start. As always, we bring you our three best bets for the slate below, and good luck to everyone following!
Also, make sure to head over to our NBA Tips regularly, as we’ll be providing free tips for all the major slates for each and every week of the 2024-25 season!
NBA Betting Tips: Tuesday, January 7th 2025
San Antonio Spurs at Chicago Bulls (12:00pm AEDT)
The Spurs head to the United Center to face the Bulls in a game that’s expected to be a tight one according to the bookies. San Antonio has been improving on both ends of the floor, with their offence looking more efficient and their rebounding efforts creating plenty of second-chance opportunities. They’ve been solid at controlling the pace of games, which will be crucial as they aim to get the better of Chicago on the road.
The Bulls will be looking to bounce back and use their home-court advantage to get the win. Their offence can light up when they’re in rhythm, especially from beyond the arc, but defensive lapses have been a recurring issue this season. To take control of this game, Chicago will need to tighten up on the defensive end, secure rebounds, and prevent the Spurs from capitalising on second-chance points.
This matchup is shaping up to be a battle of styles, with the Spurs’ slower, methodical approach clashing with the Bulls’ faster-paced offence. While Chicago might put up a fight in front of their home crowd, San Antonio’s ability to execute their game plan and control key moments could make the difference. In the end, the Spurs’ disciplined play should help them edge out a close victory.
Spurs -3
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Los Angeles Clippers at Minnesota Timberwolves (12:00pm (AEDT)
The Clippers head to Minnesota to face the Timberwolves in a game that has plenty of stars in action. The Clippers have shown potential, but with Kawhi Leonard back in the rotation, they might need time to fully gel and find their rhythm. Their ball movement and perimeter shooting remain strengths, but consistency has been an issue, particularly when it comes to protecting the paint and staying locked in defensively.
The Timberwolves, on the other hand, are looking to turn their home court into the fortress that it was a season ago. While they’ve shown glimpses of their best this season, they haven’t capitalised enough on home games and enter this game at 17-17 overall. The Timberwolves have leaned heavily on Anthony Edwards to carry their offence, but for the team to reach its full potential, they need more consistent contributions from the supporting cast.
This game is likely to come down to execution, with the Clippers working to find cohesion and the Timberwolves aiming to impose their physicality. While the Clippers have the talent to keep it close, I expect the Timberwolves urgency to defend their home court and their ability to control the pace to give them the edge.
Timberwolves -2
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Miami Heat at Sacramento Kings (2:00pm AEDT)
The Heat head to Sacramento amidst turmoil caused by Jimmy Butler’s trade request, which has thrown the team’s focus into question. While the Heat are known for their disciplined culture and resilience, the off-court drama has cast a shadow over their season. The ongoing speculation continues to impact team chemistry and focus, especially as they try to maintain their defensive identity.
The Kings, on the other hand, are showing renewed energy in recent games. The coaching change has sparked a sense of urgency within the team, with players competing harder and embracing a more cohesive approach on both offence and defence. Sacramento’s up-tempo style remains a strength, but the added focus on defensive effort and execution has started to pay dividends. If the Kings can sustain this level of intensity and feed off their home crowd, they’ll be tough to beat.
With the Heat’s distractions and inconsistency, the Kings are poised to take control of this matchup. Their fresh energy and commitment to playing harder under Doug Christie will allow them to dominate the game. Expect Sacramento to come out on top comfortably, using their speed and improved defence to outpace Miami from start to finish.
Kings -2.5
$1.90 (3 Units)
