Taking place tonight at the brand-new Intuit Dome in Southern California, the Miami Heat will be facing off against the Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard.
My prediction for this Heat vs. Clippers game is that Miami will be able to contain James Harden, who hasn’t been shooting the ball well as of late.
Read on for Monday, January 13th’s NBA predictions.
Forecast: Heat vs. Clippers
My top choice—James Harden Subject to a 20.5 point spread (-115 at bet365)
In this study, I will explain
James Harden continues to play as the focal point for the Los Angeles Clippers, as Kawhi Leonard is still adjusting to his new routine following his season debut earlier this month. Despite Norman Powell’s higher point-per-game average, Harden has the team’s highest usage rate at 30.7%. His 3-point percentage is 33.9% and he averages 21.4 points per game.
“The Beard” has been having some trouble as of late. The Under has been hit in four of his previous six games, and he’s only averaging sixteen points per night in January. In his past three games, Harden has shot below 35% from the field. On January 8, he scored only 16 points in a drubbing at the hands of the Denver Nuggets.
This bet is also supported by additional information. With an average of only 18 points per game in two games against the Miami Heat in 2023–24, the veteran had a rough season. Also, point guards have a tough time against the Heat, who have allowed just 22.7 points per game to that position this season.
Harden is going to have another night of relaxation at home, I’m betting.
