It’s been boom or bust on my NBA bets in the early going of 2026, as I went 0-2 on Thursday, 2-0 on Friday, then 0-2 on Saturday on my daily plays. So, based on the pattern, I’m set to sweep the board again tomorrow. Here are your NBA predictions and preview for Sunday, January 4th.
NBA Predictions & Preview For Sunday, January 4th
Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic
Start Time – 3:00 PM EST
In one corner, we have the Orlando Magic, 11-5 on their home floor. In the other, the Indiana Pacers, 1-15 away from home. And the visitors will be without their second-leading scorer, Bennedict Mathurin, tomorrow afternoon.
So the Magic are going to win this game, despite their own injury woes. But will they cover? My line is Orlando -14.5, so they will indeed.
Best Bet: Orlando -6.5 (-115)
New Orleans Pelicans vs Miami Heat
Start Time – 6:00 PM EST
The Miami Heat let me down on Saturday by not covering the spread against the visiting Minnesota Timberwolves, but I’m giving them a second chance tomorrow. That’s because the New Orleans Pelicans are in town, and they are 2-12 away from The Big Easy.
Since this is the modern NBA, both teams are hobbled heading into this encounter. My line is Miami -11.5, so regardless of who suits up for them, I like them to cover at home.
Best Bet: Miami -7 (-110)
2025/6 Overall Record: 76-66 (53%)
Profit (based on $100/bet): $115.85
Return on Investment: 1%
SGPN Daily Content for January 4th, 2026
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