NBA Odds, Picks and Predictions for October 24th

NBA
October 24, 2025

 

Best NBA Bets for Friday, October 24: NBA Odds, NBA Betting, and NBA Futures Breakdown

 

The 2025–26 NBA season continues with a loaded Friday slate featuring 12 games on the board and plenty of opportunities for bettors to find value in the latest NBA Odds. With teams settling into rhythm after the opening week, the board includes several high-profile matchups that could shape early NBA Futures markets. 

The schedule tips off at 6:30 p.m. ET with the Bucks facing the Raptors (-1.5), followed by heavyweight clashes, including the Knicks (-3.5) hosting the Celtics at 7:30 p.m. ET and the Timberwolves (-2.5) taking on the Lakers at 10 p.m. ET. With stars like Luka Dončić back in action after a groin injury, Friday’s card is one of the strongest early-season slates for NBA Betting enthusiasts.

 

New York Knicks logoKnicks vs. Celtics

Atlantic Rivals Battle at Madison Square Garden

 

Madison Square Garden hosts one of the night’s most anticipated games as the New York Knicks (1-0) welcome the Boston Celtics (0-1). The Knicks enter as 3.5-point favorites after a 119–111 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday, while the Celtics look to bounce back from a narrow 117–116 home loss to Philadelphia. Tip-off is at 7:30 p.m. ET, with the total set at 229.5 according to BUSR’s NBA Odds.

New York’s home dominance from last season (27–14 at MSG) and new leadership under head coach Mike Brown provide early betting confidence. The Knicks’ opener showcased depth and two-way efficiency, as 11 players contributed meaningful minutes. OG Anunoby delivered a complete performance with 24 points, 14 rebounds, and four three-pointers while adding three steals and a block. 

Mikal Bridges added 16 points, five rebounds, six assists, and strong perimeter defense, while Jalen Brunson led the offense with 23 points and five assists. That balance and effort on both ends make New York appealing at home, particularly against a Celtics team still adjusting to life without Jayson Tatum.

 

The Celtics Edge

Boston, meanwhile, continues to rely on Jaylen Brown and Derrick White to anchor its scoring attack. Both guards scored 25 points apiece in the opener, combining for eight three-pointers against Philadelphia. White’s playmaking and shooting consistency (38% from deep last year) keep the Celtics competitive, while Brown’s ability to attack off the dribble gives them an offensive counterpunch. 

Payton Pritchard adds spacing and energy off the bench after posting 16 points and two steals in the opener. However, Boston’s lack of interior presence without Tatum, along with ongoing rotation adjustments, may make it difficult to slow down New York’s rebounding and second-chance scoring.

New York’s balanced scoring, improved bench depth, and ability to defend the perimeter give them an edge. The Knicks’ size advantage inside and rebounding should prove decisive late, making them a strong play to cover the short spread at home.

Both teams ranked in the top half of the league defensively last season and operate through structured half-court sets. Without Tatum, Boston’s scoring ceiling is slightly limited, while New York’s pace under Mike Brown is more controlled. Expect a defensive battle that leans toward the Under.

 

Pick: Knicks -3.5 (-110 at BUSR), Under 229.5 (-110 at BUSR)

 

 

Orlando MagicMagic vs. Hawks Atlanta Hawks

Value on the Total in Orlando

 

The Orlando Magic host the Atlanta Hawks at 7 p.m. ET in a matchup drawing attention in Friday’s NBA Betting market due to its high total. Listed at 235.5 on most NBA Odds boards, this is the most significant number of the night, but models project a much lower output. Orlando’s defense remains the key reason to target the Under. The Magic were one of the best defensive units in the NBA last season, hitting the Under in 57% of games —the second-highest rate in the league.

Atlanta’s offense remains potent, but Orlando’s length and switch-heavy scheme have been effective at disrupting perimeter rhythm. The Magic also tends to slow the pace and force half-court possessions, especially at home. Even if the Hawks push tempo behind Trae Young’s playmaking, the Magic’s ability to contest at the rim and rebound efficiently makes this total inflated.

Data projections expect a combined total closer to 225 points, giving Under bettors significant value on the current line. Orlando’s defensive consistency and home control make the Under a top total play on Friday’s slate.

 

Pick: Under 235.5 (-110 at BUSR)

 

 

Minnesota Timberwolves LogoTimberwolves vs. Lakers Los Angeles Lakers Logo

Dončić Returns, Line Movement Worth Watching

 

The late-night matchup between the Minnesota Timberwolves (-2.5) and the Los Angeles Lakers offers intrigue for both fans and bettors. Luka Dončić is officially off the injury report and ready to play, a key factor that’s expected to move NBA Odds leading up to tip-off. Minnesota finished last season strong and enters as the favorite thanks to its defensive balance and home-court energy.

The Timberwolves’ frontcourt size, anchored by Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert, creates matchup problems for most teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers. Minnesota’s ability to defend the paint while still contesting shooters allows it to control tempo. On the offensive end, Anthony Edwards continues to evolve as a go-to scorer, and the Wolves’ supporting cast provides spacing that complements his slashing ability.

The Lakers’ focus remains on LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who combined for a strong opener but struggled to get consistent production from the supporting lineup. If Los Angeles fails to get shooting from D’Angelo Russell or spacing from their wings, Minnesota’s defensive pressure could take over. With Dončić’s return stabilizing the Wolves’ offense, this matchup favors the home team on both sides of the ball.

Minnesota’s interior presence and depth make them well-positioned to cover against a Lakers team still searching for chemistry. With Dončić cleared, expect improved offensive rhythm and efficient late-game execution from the Timberwolves.

 

Pick: Timberwolves -2.5 (-110 at BUSR)

 

 

Player Prop Spotlight: Friday’s Best Edges

 

Beyond spreads and totals, Friday’s NBA slate features strong player prop opportunities. Using matchup-based projections, bettors can find several high-percentage plays that align with team tendencies and usage rates.

Scottie Barnes Over 4.5 assists (-153) in Bucks vs. Raptors at 6:30 p.m. ET offers one of the night’s best prop values. Barnes averaged 5.8 assists last season and opened the year with nine against Atlanta. His role as a secondary playmaker and the Bucks’ fast pace make this total attainable.

Jaren Jackson Jr. Over 1.5 blocks (-124) in Heat vs. Grizzlies at 8:00 p.m. ET also grades well. Jackson recorded six blocks in his opener, and projections have him reaching at least two tonight. His interior defense continues to be one of Memphis’ biggest strengths, particularly against Miami’s driving-heavy offense.

Jerami Grant Over 13.5 points (-130) in Warriors vs. Trail Blazers at 10:00 p.m. ET is another strong angle. Grant has scored 29 and 32 points in his last two outings and continues to serve as Portland’s primary scorer off the bench. With his minutes and shot volume secure, this over projects value in a matchup where the Blazers will rely heavily on his offense.

 

Picks:  Scottie Barnes Over 4.5 Assists (-153), Jaren Jackson Jr. Over 1.5 blocks (-124), Jerami Grant Over 13.5 points (-130)

 

Friday’s NBA slate brings variety across both spreads and player markets, offering strong parlay opportunities for bettors following early-season trends. The Knicks’ home-court dominance, Orlando’s defensive reliability, and Minnesota’s frontcourt depth all align as foundational angles supported by data. 

With 12 games on the schedule and updated NBA Odds available at BUSR, bettors have a deep board to explore as NBA Betting momentum builds early in the season. Keep an eye on evolving team identities and player usage; early efficiency trends often shape long-term NBA Futures and help identify value plays before the lines adjust.

 

 

How & Where to Bet on NBA Online. Why BUSR is the Go-To

 

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