Washington (6-27) at Philadelphia (14-20)
- When: Jan 8 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- TV: NBCS-PH
Philadelphia enters this matchup as an -11.0 favorite, with a total set at 220.5—an indicator of a potentially lopsided but high-scoring affair as the 76ers aim to recover from their recent slump against the lowly Washington Wizards.
Game Preview & Betting Breakdown
The 76ers (20-14) opened their three-game homestand with a 109-99 loss to Phoenix despite a 31-point, 10-assist performance from Tyrese Maxey, who continues to shine as the team’s offensive leader amid injury woes. Philadelphia thrived during a six-game road trip, winning four—including notable victories against Boston and Portland—but they’ve dropped three of their last four since the start of 2025.
Key player absences are stacking up, including Joel Embiid, who missed Monday’s game due to foot issues. Embiid’s availability is crucial for the spread, considering his MVP-caliber dominance in the paint. Meanwhile, Andre Drummond (toe) and Kyle Lowry (hip) remain sidelined, and Paul George, though healthy, has struggled to find his rhythm, scoring just 16.2 points per game.
Washington’s Struggles and Betting Angles
The Wizards (7-25) arrive in Philadelphia on the second night of a back-to-back after a 135-112 blowout loss to Houston. Injury issues have plagued Washington, with leading scorer Jordan Poole (21.8 points per game) missing four of the last six games, along with Malcolm Brogdon (foot) and Marvin Bagley III (knee).
Despite their struggles, Kyle Kuzma showed signs of life with 28 points in a recent loss to New Orleans, but his season average of 15.4 points per game is a major step down from previous seasons. On Tuesday, Corey Kispert provided a rare spark off the bench, draining 5-of-7 from beyond the arc and finishing with 23 points. Bettors looking for a potential hot-hand prop may consider Kispert if Poole remains out.
Prediction and Best Bets
Philadelphia’s -11.0 spread reflects their home-court dominance and Washington’s status as the NBA’s worst team. However, the Wizards’ recent ability to exceed scoring expectations in garbage time could make a backdoor cover plausible. The 220.5 total is appealing for over bettors, especially if Maxey continues his scoring tear and Washington’s defense remains leaky.
Betting Recommendations:
Spread: Philadelphia -11.0 is worth backing if Embiid plays. If he’s out, consider live-betting based on how Maxey and George start.
Total: Lean toward the over at 220.5, as both teams have struggled defensively.
Player Props: Tyrese Maxey over 29.5 points and assists combined, Corey Kispert over 2.5 threes if Poole remains sidelined.
Final Prediction: Philadelphia cruises to a 121-106 win, covering the spread with Maxey leading the charge and Washington struggling to keep pace despite an occasional offensive burst from Kuzma or Kispert.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
