NBA Daily Picks For January 4th, 2025: Nuggets Want Revenge Against Spurs

After another balanced 3-3 performance in the last round’s predictions, our season record now stands at 209-116, with an accuracy rate of 64.3%. Tonight, we have a jam-packed 9-game slate, and we’re ready to aim for a stronger showing.

The evening begins with the Philadelphia 76ers facing the Brooklyn Nets in an Eastern Conference clash. The Minnesota Timberwolves meet the struggling Detroit Pistons, a game heavily favoring Minnesota as they continue to climb the standings. 

The Phoenix Suns take on the Indiana Pacers in what should be a high-scoring affair. The New York Knicks face the Chicago Bulls in a matchup of two teams fighting for position in the East. The Utah Jazz take on the Miami Heat in what could be a tightly contested matchup. 

The Portland Trail Blazers face the Milwaukee Bucks, with Giannis Antetokounmpo expected to dominate against Portland’s struggling roster. In a rematch, the Denver Nuggets face the San Antonio Spurs. 

The Memphis Grizzlies face the Golden State Warriors in a heated Western Conference rivalry. Finally, the Atlanta Hawks take on the Los Angeles Clippers to close the night. 

Let’s break down these matchups and aim to regain our momentum with tonight’s predictions.

Philadephia 76ers At Brooklyn Nets – 6:00 PM EST

Sixers Current Record: 13-19

Nets Current Record: 13-21

Sixers Injuries: Kelly Ouber Jr. – Day To Day (Hand), Joel Embiid – Day To Day (Foot/Nose), KJ Martin – Out (Foot), Jared McCain – Out (Meniscus tear)

Nets Injuries: Cam Thomas – Day To Day (Hamstring), Noah Clowney – Day To Day, Cameron Johnson – Day To Day (Ankle), Bojan Bogdanovic – Out (Foot), Maxwell Lewis – Out (Tibia), Trendon Watford – Out (Hamstring)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 3-2

The Brooklyn Nets face the Philadelphia 76ers at the Barclays Center in a matchup between two teams looking to reverse recent struggles. The Nets, currently 12th in the Eastern Conference, have dropped four straight games at home, showcasing offensive inconsistency despite standout performances from players like Cam Thomas and Cameron Johnson. Brooklyn’s rebounding remains a significant issue, ranking last in the league, which could prove costly against a physical team like Philadelphia.

The 76ers, 11th in the East, have lost two consecutive games on the road. Joel Embiid’s return has brought stability, with his interior dominance and rebounding offering the 76ers a much-needed boost. Tyrese Maxey has been a reliable scorer, but Philadelphia’s offensive woes—particularly from three-point range—have kept them from reaching their full potential.

The matchup likely hinges on rebounding and defensive execution. The 76ers’ edge in the paint and ability to disrupt passing lanes could make the difference against a Brooklyn team still finding its rhythm.

The 76ers’ defense and Embiid’s presence should help them control the game, earning them a hard-fought victory.

Prediction: Sixers def. Nets 109-102

Minnesota Timberwolves At Detroit Pistons – 7:00 PM EST

Wolves Current Record: 17-16

Pistons Current Record: 16-18

Wolves Injuries: Josh Minott – Day To Day (Illness), Rob Dillingham – Out (Ankle), Luka Garza – Out (Ankle)

Pistons Injuries: Simone Fontecchio – Out (Personal), Jaden Ivey – Out (Leg)o

Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 3-2

The Detroit Pistons host the Minnesota Timberwolves in a cross-conference clash at the Wells Fargo Center. The Pistons have been one of the league’s hottest teams recently, winning five of their last six games, including a gritty 98-94 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. 

Tobias Harris has been in top form, leading the charge alongside Cade Cunningham, who continues to shine as Detroit’s floor general. The Pistons have relied on defensive resilience and second-half adjustments, which have been pivotal during their current streak.

The Timberwolves, meanwhile, enter this contest after a narrow 118-115 loss to the Boston Celtics. Despite strong performances from Julius Randle and Naz Reid, the Timberwolves have struggled with consistency, dropping five of their last eight games. While their defense has been a strength, allowing just 107.7 points per game (fourth-best in the league), offensive cohesion remains a challenge. 

Anthony Edwards continues to be the focal point, but Minnesota’s reliance on isolation play has stymied their rhythm.

This matchup will likely be decided by pace and execution. Detroit’s ability to push in transition and utilize their young talent could overwhelm Minnesota’s methodical approach.

Prediction: Pistons def. Timberwolves 112-108

Phoenix Suns At Indiana Pacers – 7:00 PM EST

Suns Current Record: 15-17

Pacers Current Record: 17-18

Suns Injuries: Bradley Beal – Day To Day (Hip), Collin Gillespie – Out (Ankle), Royce O’Neale – Out (Ankle)

Pacers Injuries: Aaron Nesmith – Out (Ankle), Isaiah Jackson – Out (Achilles), James Wiseman – Out (Achilles)

Last 5 Meetings: Suns Lead 3-2

The Phoenix Suns and Indiana Pacers meet for the second and final time this season, with the Pacers leading the series after a 120-111 victory in their last matchup. Both teams are fighting to establish consistency, with the Suns sitting at 15-17 and the Pacers slightly ahead at 17-18. The game will take place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

Phoenix has struggled to find its rhythm, particularly due to injuries to key players. Kevin Durant has carried much of the scoring load recently, averaging 31.7 points per game over their last three outings. Devin Booker’s return adds firepower, but Bradley Beal’s status remains uncertain, which could limit the Suns’ offensive efficiency. Phoenix’s lack of rebounding and defensive lapses have been recurring issues, particularly on the road.

The Pacers, on the other hand, have displayed improved cohesion behind Tyrese Haliburton’s stellar playmaking and Pascal Siakam’s scoring versatility. Indiana has won seven of its last ten games and thrives in transition and ball movement. However, their defense remains a concern, allowing opponents to score freely at times.

The Pacers’ home-court advantage and recent momentum give them the edge. Expect Indiana to capitalize on Phoenix’s inconsistencies for a hard-fought win.

Prediction: Suns def. Pacers 118-112

New York Knicks At Chicago Bulls – 8:00 PM EST

Knicks Current Record: 24-11

Bulls Current Record: 15-19

Knicks Injuries: Miles McBride – Day To Day (Hamstring), Mitchell Robinson – Out (Ankle), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)

Bulls Injuries: Torrey Craig – Day To Day (Leg), Ayo Dosunmu – Out (Calf)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 3-2

The New York Knicks travel to Chicago to face the Bulls at the United Center in what promises to be a competitive matchup. The Knicks have been dominant recently, winning nine of their last ten games, while the Bulls are struggling to find consistency. The two teams met earlier this season, with the Bulls edging out a narrow 124-123 victory at Madison Square Garden.

The Knicks are led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, both of whom have been pivotal in their team’s recent success. Towns is averaging 24.3 points and 14.9 rebounds over the past ten games, making him a key factor in this matchup. Defensively, OG Anunoby and the Knicks will look to limit Chicago’s offensive rhythm, particularly the contributions of Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic.

Chicago, despite their struggles, has shown resilience at home, with strong performances from LaVine and Vucevic. The Bulls need to tighten their defense, as they rank 29th in the league for points allowed per game. Offensive efficiency and free-throw opportunities will be critical if they hope to secure a win.

The Knicks’ superior form and defensive discipline should see them avenge their earlier loss.

Prediction: Knicks def. Bulls 118-110

Utah Jazz At Miami Heat – 8:00 PM EST

Jazz Current Record: 7-25

Heat Current Record: 17-15

Jazz Injuries: John Collins – Out (Hip), Taylor Hendricks – Out (Ankle)

Heat Injuries: Josh Richardson – Out (Heel), Dru Smith – Out (Achilles), Jimmy Butler – Out (Suspension)

Last 5 Meetings: Heat Lead 4-1

The Utah Jazz travel to Miami to face the Heat at Kaseya Center in an intriguing cross-conference clash. The Heat have had a solid season so far, sitting sixth in the Eastern Conference, while the Jazz continue to struggle, occupying one of the bottom spots in the West.

The Heat are led by Tyler Herro, who has been consistent with 24.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. While Jimmy Butler’s status remains uncertain, the Heat will rely on Bam Adebayo’s defensive presence and Terry Rozier’s playmaking. Offensively, Miami has been efficient, averaging 111.4 points per game while shooting an impressive 37.6% from beyond the arc.

For the Jazz, Lauri Markkanen leads the way with 19.5 points and 6.4 rebounds per game. Supporting him are John Collins and Collin Sexton, who have provided decent scoring but need more consistency. Utah’s defense has been a glaring weakness, allowing 119.8 points per game, the third-worst mark in the league.

With the Jazz on a five-game losing streak and the Heat’s strong form at home, Miami is poised to secure a win. However, Utah’s ability to surprise on the road adds an element of unpredictability.

Prediction: Heat def. Jazz 115-108

Portland Trail Blazers At Milwaukee Bucks – 8:00 PM EST

Blazers Current Record: 11-22

Bucks Current Record: 17-15

Blazers Injuries: Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle), Jerami Grant – Out (Face)

Bucks Injuries: Khris Middleton – Day To Day (Ankles), AJ Green – Day To Day (Back)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 3-2

The Milwaukee Bucks host the Portland Trail Blazers at Fiserv Forum in a matchup between two teams in contrasting forms. The Bucks, currently sixth in the Eastern Conference, are eager to return to their winning ways after a narrow loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers sit 13th in the Western Conference and are desperate to snap a seven-game road losing streak.

The Bucks rely on their superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is averaging 32.4 points and 11.7 rebounds per game. His ability to dominate the paint and create scoring opportunities for teammates like Damian Lillard and Brook Lopez will be critical. The Bucks’ defense, ranked in the league’s top ten, will aim to stifle Portland’s inconsistent offense.

The Trail Blazers have struggled on both ends, scoring just 108.1 points per game (26th in the league) while conceding 117.3 points. Anfernee Simons and Deandre Ayton will need to deliver standout performances to give Portland a chance, but their lack of depth and defensive weaknesses remain significant concerns.

Milwaukee’s balanced attack and defensive strength make them the favorites in this contest.

Prediction: Bucks def. Trail Blazers 116-102

Denver Nuggets At San Antonio Spurs – 8:00 PM EST

Nuggets Current Record: 19-14

Spurs Current Record: 18-16

Nuggets Injuries: Aaron Gordon – Out (Calf), Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Spurs Injuries: Jeremy Sochan – Out (Back)

Last 5 Meetings: Nuggets Lead 3-2

The Denver Nuggets and San Antonio Spurs face off for the second time in as many nights at the Frost Bank Center. Last night, the Spurs edged out a thrilling 113-110 victory in Denver, led by Victor Wembanyama’s dominant performance of 35 points, 18 rebounds, and two blocks. Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic was exceptional for the Nuggets with 41 points, 18 rebounds, and nine assists, but Denver’s supporting cast struggled to step up.

The Nuggets have been solid this season but face challenges with Aaron Gordon’s absence impacting their rotation. Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. will need to provide more consistent support for Jokic if Denver hopes to avenge last night’s loss.

San Antonio continues to be carried by their rising star Wembanyama. Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson also contributed significantly last night, showcasing the Spurs’ depth. However, the Spurs have struggled in back-to-back games this season, which could be a factor in this rematch.

Given the Nuggets’ urgency to bounce back and their reliance on Jokic’s playmaking, Denver is poised to make the necessary adjustments to secure a win.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Spurs 116-111

Memphis Grizzlies At Golden State Warriors – 8:30 PM EST

Grizzlies Current Record: 23-12

Warriors Current Record: 17-16

Grizzlies Injuries: Yuki Kawamura – Out (Shoulder), Ja Morant – Out (Shoulder), Santi Aldama – Out (Ankle), Marcus Smart – Out (Finger), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Ankle), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot)

Warriors Injuries: Andrew Wiggins – Day To Day (Hamstring), Stephen Curry – Out (Knee), Brandin Podziemski – Out (Abdomen), Gary Payton II – Out (Calf)

Last 5 Meetings: Warriors Lead 3-2

The Golden State Warriors host the Memphis Grizzlies in what promises to be an exciting clash between two teams with contrasting seasons. The Warriors, currently 10th in the Western Conference, are looking to rediscover their form after an inconsistent stretch of games. On the other hand, the Grizzlies, ranked second in the West, have been impressive, showcasing depth and resilience despite missing key players like Ja Morant.

Golden State’s Stephen Curry remains their primary offensive engine, leading the team in scoring and assists. However, the Warriors have struggled defensively, particularly on the boards, where they rank near the bottom of the league. Their ability to hit threes and execute in clutch moments will be pivotal against a high-scoring Memphis squad.

The Grizzlies, led by Jaren Jackson Jr., have relied on balanced contributions from their supporting cast, including standout rookie Jaylen Wells. Memphis excels in ball movement, leading the league in assists, and their interior defense, anchored by Jackson, poses challenges for opponents. Despite injuries, they’ve consistently performed well, which was highlighted by a dominant 144-93 win over Golden State earlier this season.

Expect a tightly contested game, with Memphis’ depth and defensive edge likely giving them the advantage.

Prediction: Grizzlies def. Warriors 118-112

Atlanta Hawks At Los Angeles Clippers – 10:30 PM EST

Hawks Current Record: 18-17

Clippers Current Record: 19-15

Hawks Injuries: Larry Nance Jr – Out (Hand), Code Zeller – Out (Personal), Kobe Bufkin – Out (Shoulder)

Clippers Injuries: P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team)

Last 5 Meetings: Hawks Lead 3-2

The Atlanta Hawks face off against the LA Clippers at the Intuit Dome in what promises to be an intriguing clash. The Clippers rely on their defensive prowess, allowing an average of 108.8 points per game, led by the dynamic duo of James Harden and Norman Powell. 

Harden’s playmaking and Powell’s scoring efficiency have been key to their offense, while Ivica Zubac anchors the interior with strong rebounding. 

The Hawks, led by Trae Young, boast one of the league’s top offenses, averaging 117.8 points per game. Young’s ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates will be crucial, as will the contributions of Clint Capela and Jalen Johnson in the frontcourt. Despite their offensive strengths, Atlanta’s defensive vulnerabilities have been a recurring issue, giving up an average of 119.4 points per game.

This game could come down to whether the Clippers’ defense can contain Atlanta’s fast-paced offense. Expect a close encounter, with the Clippers having a slight edge at home.

Prediction: Clippers def. Hawks 116-112