Thunder vs Wizards prediction, tips and odds for today’s NBA game

At 31-7, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s win total nearly equals the Washington Wizards’ total losses, so it’s no surprise that there’s a huge spread when these teams face off at Capital One Arena tonight.

OKC’s 15-game winning streak was snapped this week, but a new one is already underway, and my Thunder vs. Wizards predictions are for the visitors to get off to an early start here without much resistance from the overwhelmed hosts.

Check out my NBA picks for this Jan. 12 battle between two teams going in opposite directions.

Thunder vs Wizards Prediction

My best choice
Thunder first half -9 (-110 at bet365)

My analysis
The Oklahoma City Thunder have failed to climb to the top of the Western Conference by taking pity on weak opponents, and tonight’s contest feels like a very one-sided matchup that could quickly spiral out of control.

The relentless Thunder responded to a rare loss – a 129-122 setback to the Cleveland Cavaliers – by defeating the New York Knicks on Friday. That included a 70-43 halftime lead, and I’m picking OKC to deliver another dominant first half here while flexing its muscles on both ends of the court.

The numbers are convincing. The visitors have reached the 1H money line in 23 of their last 33 road games and have the NBA’s best first-half point differential on their trips. They’ve also reached the first-quarter money limit in 19 of their last 25 games away from Paycom Center.

The 6-30 Washington Wizards are stumbling from one loss to the next, their most recent skid is five games, and they have posted a league-worst -6.7 1H point differential this season. There’s really no reason for that number to get any better tonight.

With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams on offense, supported by a ferocious defense, I see the Thunder making short work of Washington and giving their starters some valuable rest. Unfortunately for Washington, the visitors’ depth is another major strength.

Thunder vs. Wizards, same game play

Thunder first half -9

Isaiah Hartenstein Over 4.5 assists

Jordan Poole Over 19.5 points

Isaiah Hartenstein has been one of the Thunder’s key contributors while Chet Holmgren is still sidelined, and it’s his play that has been drawing attention lately.

Hartenstein has recorded six or more assists in four of his last five games and dished out eight dimes during the week against the Cavs. When the defense collapses against Gilgeous-Alexander, the former Knicks big man becomes an important outlet to keep possessions moving.

As good as this OKC defense is, Alex Caruso is out, and that should give Jordan Poole a little more breathing room on the perimeter.

He still has to overcome Cason Wallace and SGA, but Poole has scored 21 or more points in five straight games. He’s also never afraid to shoot big, even in a losing situation, and has made five or more three-pointers in six of his last seven games.

Learn how to place a bet in the same game with these helpful tips and strategies.

Thunder vs Wizards odds

Live odds between Thunder and Wizards

Thunder vs Wizards opening odds

• Spread: Oklahoma City 16.5 | Washington +16.5
• Money line: Oklahoma City -1100 | Washington +700
• Over/Under: Over 229 | Under 229

Odds courtesy of bet365

Thunder vs. Wizards spread and over/under analysis

• A 16-point line reflects the Thunder’s 14-4 road record and the Wizards’ 13-22-1 ATS mark.
• OKC has won the last five meetings between these teams, evening the margin in four of those wins.
• The over is 7-2-1 in the last 10 meetings between these teams.
• Washington has given up more than 130 points in three of its last five contests.

Thunder vs Wizard trend.

The Wizards have reached the third quarter in 17 of their last 24 games at Capital One Arena. Find more NBA betting trends for Thunder vs. Wizards.

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