Dallas Mavericks vs. Charlotte Hornets: Picks and Predictions (Jan 20, 2025)

NBA
Written By Louie Diamond

The Dallas Mavericks take on the Charlotte Hornets in an early Monday matchup that offers intriguing betting opportunities. The Mavericks are looking to maintain their strong playoff positioning, while the Hornets, despite a tough season, have shown glimpses of potential that could make this an interesting contest.

Let’s dive into the picks and predictions for this matchup, analyzing key factors such as team performance, injuries, betting trends, and best bets.

Game Details:

  • Matchup: Dallas Mavericks Vs Charlotte Hornets

  • Date: Monday, January 20, 2025

  • Time: 9:00 AM PST (12:00 PM EST)

  • Location: Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC

  • Broadcast: NBA League Pass

Dallas Mavericks Overview

The Mavericks enter this contest with a solid record and are pushing for a top seed in the Western Conference. Led by superstar Luka Dončić, Dallas boasts one of the most efficient offenses in the league, ranking in the top 10 for offensive rating. The addition of key role players has strengthened their defensive consistency, making them a formidable opponent against struggling teams like Charlotte.

Key Players to Watch:

  • Luka Dončić (PG): Averaging close to a triple-double, Dončić's scoring and playmaking make him the driving force behind the Mavericks’ offense.

  • Kyrie Irving (SG): A scoring machine who can take over games, providing much-needed secondary scoring support.

  • Derrick Jones Jr. (SF): His defensive presence will be key in containing the Hornets' wing scorers.

Team Strengths:

  • Elite pick-and-roll execution with Dončić and their bigs.

  • Strong three-point shooting, ranking in the top 5 in the NBA.

  • Improved defensive rebounding, limiting opponents' second-chance opportunities.

Recent Form:
The Mavericks have won 4 of their last 5 games, including key victories over playoff contenders. They are trending upwards, and facing a struggling Hornets team provides a great opportunity to extend their winning streak.

Charlotte Hornets Overview

The Hornets have struggled throughout the season, with inconsistency plaguing their roster. Injuries to key players, including LaMelo Ball, have hindered their development. Despite their difficulties, they have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in their recent win over the Phoenix Suns.

Key Players to Watch:

  • LaMelo Ball (PG): If healthy, he provides the Hornets with dynamic playmaking and three-point shooting.

  • Miles Bridges (SF): A versatile forward who can score inside and out, Bridges is the Hornets' most reliable offensive threat.

  • Mark Williams (C): A dominant force on the boards who can challenge the Mavericks’ big men.

Team Weaknesses:

  • Defensive inefficiencies, particularly in transition defense.

  • Lack of consistent outside shooting beyond their top players.

  • High turnover rate, leading to easy points for opponents.

Recent Form:
Charlotte has lost 8 of their last 10 games, with defensive struggles continuing to be a major concern. They will need to put together a near-perfect performance to stand a chance against the Mavericks.

Betting Trends and Analysis

Head-to-Head Trends:

  • Dallas has won 4 of the last 5 meetings against Charlotte.

  • The total has gone OVER in 3 of the last 5 matchups.

  • The Mavericks have covered the spread in 6 of their last 7 road games vs. sub-.500 teams.

Dallas Mavericks Trends:

  • Mavericks are 7-3 ATS (Against the Spread) in their last 10 games.

  • The total has gone UNDER in 4 of their last 6 games.

  • Dallas is 8-2 SU (Straight Up) in their last 10 games against Eastern Conference teams.

Charlotte Hornets Trends:

  • The Hornets are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games.

  • Charlotte has gone UNDER in 5 of their last 7 games.

  • They are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games against Western Conference opponents.

Picks and Predictions

1. Spread Pick: Dallas Mavericks -8.5
The Mavericks are a well-oiled machine offensively, while the Hornets struggle to contain elite perimeter scorers. Expect Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving to exploit Charlotte’s weak defense and cover the spread comfortably.

2. Over/Under Pick: UNDER 225.5
Despite the Mavericks' offensive capabilities, Charlotte’s inability to consistently score and their slower pace could keep this game under the total. Additionally, Dallas' improved defense should limit the Hornets' scoring output.

3. Prop Bet: Luka Dončić OVER 30.5 Points
With the Hornets lacking elite perimeter defenders, Dončić should have a field day scoring in various ways. He has surpassed this mark in 4 of his last 6 games.

4. Prop Bet: Miles Bridges OVER 18.5 Points
With Charlotte’s offensive struggles, Bridges will be relied upon heavily to provide scoring. Given his versatility and aggressive playstyle, he should have plenty of opportunities.

Final Score Prediction

Dallas Mavericks 116, Charlotte Hornets 101

The Mavericks' balanced offensive attack and defensive improvements should allow them to secure a comfortable road win. Expect a dominant performance from Dončić and a strong defensive showing to hold the Hornets below their season average.

Best Bets Recap

  • Dallas Mavericks -8.5 (Spread)

  • UNDER 225.5 (Total Points)

  • Luka Dončić OVER 30.5 Points (Player Prop)

  • Miles Bridges OVER 18.5 Points (Player Prop)

Final Thoughts:


The Mavericks are the clear favorites heading into this matchup, and with their current form, they should be able to secure a decisive victory over a struggling Hornets squad. Charlotte will need to play a near-perfect game to stay competitive, but the talent gap is too wide to ignore.

Stay tuned for more NBA picks and predictions throughout the season at Bettor Center!

Louie Diamond
Previous

Detroit Pistons vs. Houston Rockets: Picks and Predictions (Jan 20, 2025)
Next

Phoenix Suns vs. Washington Wizards : Picks for 16/01/2025