NBA Daily Picks For December 28th, 2024: Kings Look To Snap Losing Streak Against Lakers

After a solid 6-2 performance in last night’s predictions, our season record now stands at 188-109, bringing our accuracy rate to 63.2%. Tonight, we’re set for a competitive 9-game slate, with teams battling for momentum as the season heats up.

The evening tips off with the Miami Heat facing the Atlanta Hawks in a matchup where Miami looks to continue building momentum against a solid Hawks team that can’t be overlooked. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder aim to extend their winning streak as they take on the struggling Charlotte Hornets, who have yet to find consistency this season.

The New York Knicks look to keep climbing the standings against the Washington Wizards, the league’s worst team, in what appears to be a mismatch. In the Central Division, the Milwaukee Bucks meet the Chicago Bulls, with both teams eager to get back on track and find their rhythm.

In a Western Conference showdown, the Phoenix Suns will try to regain momentum against the slumping Golden State Warriors, who are still searching for answers. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons face the Denver Nuggets, as both teams aim to bounce back and regain some momentum.

The Philadelphia 76ers continue their strong run as they take on the Utah Jazz, a team struggling to find consistency this season. Elsewhere, the Dallas Mavericks face the Portland Trail Blazers, a team that’s been completely out of sync and struggling to stay competitive.

Finally, the Sacramento Kings look to snap their losing streak after parting ways with Mike Brown as they take on the Los Angeles Lakers, who have been building some momentum and will aim to capitalize on Sacramento’s instability.

Let’s dive into these matchups and aim for another strong round of predictions tonight.

Miami Heat At Atlanta Hawks – 3:00 PM EST

Heat Current Record: 15-13

Hawks Current Record: 16-15

Heat Injuries: Terry Rozier – Day To Day (Knee), Pelle Larsson – Day To Day (Ankle), Nikola Jovic – Day To Day (Ankle), Josh Richardson – Out (Heel), Jimmy Butler – Out (Conditioning), Dru Smith – Out (Achilles)

Hawks Injuries: Bogdan Bogdanovic – Day To Day (Leg), Trae Young – Day To Day (Heel), Onyeka Okongwu – Out (Knee), Cody Zeller – Out (Personal), Kobe Bufkin – Out (Shoulder)

Last 5 Meetings: Heat Lead 4-1

The Atlanta Hawks face the Miami Heat in a Southeast Division showdown at State Farm Arena. Both teams enter this matchup on the back of thrilling wins. The Hawks pulled off a remarkable 141-133 comeback victory over the Chicago Bulls, fueled by Trae Young’s late-game heroics and Jalen Johnson’s career-high 30 points. Atlanta has been a top-tier offensive team this season, averaging 117.2 points per game, but their defense continues to be a concern, allowing 119.5 points per contest.

The Heat, on the other hand, edged past the Orlando Magic in their last outing, led by Tyler Herro’s clutch performance. Herro has been a bright spot for Miami this season, stepping up in Jimmy Butler’s absence due to illness. Bam Adebayo remains a critical presence in the paint, though he struggled in the previous game. Miami’s defense has been stellar, ranking among the league’s best by allowing just 108.6 points per game, but their offensive production has been inconsistent.

This game presents a contrast in styles, with Atlanta’s fast-paced offense clashing against Miami’s defensive focus. Expect a closely fought contest, but Atlanta’s offensive firepower and home-court advantage should give them the edge.

Prediction: Hawks def. Heat 114-108

Oklahoma City Thunder At Charlotte Hornets – 6:00 PM EST

Thunder Current Record: 24-5

Hornets Current Record: 7-23

Thunder Injuries: Cason Wallace – Out (Quad), Branden Carlson – Out (Concussion), Alex Caruso – Out (Hip), Lugentz Dort – Out (Ankle), Alex Ducas – OUt (Back), Adam Flagler – Out (Metacarpal fracture), Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Nikokla Topic – Out (ACL)

Hornets Injuries: LaMelo Ball – Day To Day (Wrist)

Last 5 Meetings: Hornets Lead 3-2

The Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Charlotte Hornets in a matchup of teams on opposite ends of the standings. The Thunder are flying high with a 24-5 record, driven by the MVP-caliber performance of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging 31.1 points per game. 

Complementing him is Jalen Williams, a dynamic scorer and playmaker who adds depth to OKC’s offensive firepower. Despite key injuries to defenders like Lu Dort and Alex Caruso, the Thunder remain a defensive powerhouse, allowing the second-fewest points per game in the league.

On the other hand, the Hornets have struggled mightily, sitting at 7-23. While LaMelo Ball is having a stellar season with 30.1 points and 7.4 assists per game, the team lacks consistency and depth. Brandon Miller has been a bright spot on the wing, but injuries and inefficiency have hampered Charlotte’s ability to compete. Their offense ranks near the bottom of the league, while their defense has been inconsistent at best.

This game features a clash between the Thunder’s disciplined defense and the Hornets’ reliance on their stars. OKC’s balance and depth should prove too much for Charlotte to handle.

Prediction: Thunder def. Hornets 115-103

New York Knicks At Washington Wizards – 7:00 PM EST

Knicks Current Record: 21-10

Wizards Current Record: 5-23

Knicks Injuries: Mitchell Robinson – Out (Foot), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)

Wizards Injuries: Jordan Poole – Day To Day (Hip), Kyle Kuzma – Out (Ribs), Marvin Bagley III – Out (Knee), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 5-0

The New York Knicks travel to Washington D.C. to take on the struggling Washington Wizards in what is expected to be a one-sided matchup. The Knicks, sitting third in the Eastern Conference, are riding a five-game win streak, highlighted by strong performances from Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Karl-Anthony Towns. With a solid offense averaging 118.3 points per game, the Knicks have displayed both scoring prowess and defensive consistency, allowing just 110.3 points per game.

The Wizards, on the other hand, find themselves at the bottom of the standings with a dismal 5-23 record. Despite a recent victory over the Charlotte Hornets, Washington has struggled on both ends of the floor, ranking near the league’s worst in offensive and defensive metrics. Jordan Poole leads the team with 20.3 points per game, but the absence of key players like Kyle Kuzma has severely limited their ability to compete against higher-caliber opponents.

Given the Knicks’ depth and recent form, they are heavily favored in this contest. Expect the Wizards to battle hard but ultimately fall short against a Knicks team firing on all cylinders.

Prediction: Knicks def. Wizards 122-106

Milwaukee Bucks At Chicago Bulls – 8:00 PM EST

Bucks Current Record: 16-13

Bulls Current Record: 13-18

Bucks Injuries: Andre Jackson Jr. – Day To Day (Ankle), Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Illness), Damian Lillard – Day To Day (Illness), AJ Johnson – Out (Illness), Khris Middleton – Day To Day (Ankle)

Bulls Injuries: Josh Giddey – Day To Day (Ankle), Matas Buzelis – Day To Day (Illness), Jalen Smith – Day To Day (Ankle), Ayo Dosunmu – Day To Day (Calf), Lonzo Ball – Day To Day (Illness)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 4-1

The Milwaukee Bucks visit the United Center to face the Chicago Bulls in a divisional clash. Milwaukee, led by the formidable duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, has rebounded from a slow start to the season and comes into this game with solid momentum. 

Giannis has been a force, averaging 32.7 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 6 assists per game, while Lillard continues to showcase his leadership and clutch scoring ability. The Bucks are looking to build on their improved play and maintain their standing in the Eastern Conference.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls have been plagued by inconsistency, despite possessing talented players like Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic. Offensively, the Bulls have shown flashes of brilliance, averaging 117.7 points per game, but their defense has been a significant weakness, allowing 121.8 points per game, one of the league’s worst marks. LaVine’s scoring and Vucevic’s interior presence will be critical if Chicago hopes to compete against Milwaukee’s well-rounded roster.

This game could come down to the Bucks’ defensive pressure and their ability to dominate the paint, where Giannis and Brook Lopez excel. The Bulls need a strong showing from their perimeter players and must find a way to contain Milwaukee’s dynamic offense.

Prediction: Bucks def. Bulls 118-111

Phoenix Suns At Golden State Warriors – 8:30 PM EST

Suns Current Record: 15-15

Warriors Current Record: 15-15

Suns Injuries: Devin Booker – Out (Groin), Collin Gillespie – Out (Ankle), Bol Bol – Out (Knee), Grayson Allen – Out (Concussion)

Warriors Injuries: Draymond Green – Day To Day (Back), Stephen Curry – Day To Day (Knee injury management), Gary Payton – Out (Calf)

Last 5 Meetings: Suns Lead 4-1

The Phoenix Suns travel to San Francisco to face the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center in a matchup of two teams looking to stabilize their seasons. Both squads have struggled lately, each posting a 3-7 record in their last 10 games. Despite these challenges, both rosters have the firepower to make this an exciting contest.

Phoenix is still adjusting to playing without Devin Booker. Kevin Durant continues to shoulder the offensive load, averaging 21.5 points per game over the last 10 games, while Bradley Beal has provided additional scoring support. Royce O’Neale’s emergence as a reliable three-point threat has added a valuable dimension to the Suns’ offense. But, Phoenix’s defense has been inconsistent, allowing 116.5 points per game during this stretch.

Golden State enters this game after a loss to the Clippers. Jonathan Kuminga has stepped up with a strong stretch of games, averaging 20.2 points, but the Warriors’ offensive efficiency has been hampered by inconsistent contributions from their supporting cast. Defensively, Golden State has shown flashes of strength but has struggled to close out games.

This game could come down to which team’s stars rise to the occasion. While Durant and Beal can light up the scoreboard for Phoenix, Curry and the Warriors’ depth give Golden State a slight edge at home.

Prediction: Warriors def. Suns 112-107

Detroit Pistons At Denver Nuggets – 9:00 PM EST

Pistons Current Record: 14-17

Nuggets Current Record: 16-13

Pistons Injuries: Isaiah Stewart – Out (Knee)

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

Last 5 Meetings: Nuggets Lead 4-1

The Detroit Pistons travel to face the Denver Nuggets in what promises to be an intriguing matchup at Ball Arena. The Pistons are riding a three-game winning streak, showcasing resilience and improved team chemistry. Cade Cunningham has been the driving force, averaging a double-double and elevating his playmaking to keep Detroit competitive. Jalen Duren has also emerged as a vital contributor, dominating the boards and providing interior defense.

On the other hand, the Nuggets are looking to snap a two-game skid. Nikola Jokic continues to be their centerpiece, delivering MVP-caliber performances with his scoring, rebounding, and passing. However, Denver has struggled with consistency in their defense, which has allowed opponents to stay in games. Injuries to key players like Jamal Murray have forced others, including Michael Porter Jr., to step up in pivotal roles.

This game will likely be a battle of styles: the Pistons’ youthful energy and pace against the Nuggets’ efficient, methodical offense led by Jokic. While Detroit’s recent form is promising, the Nuggets’ home-court advantage and star power should help them regain their footing.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Pistons 118-112

Philadelphia 76ers At Utah Jazz – 9:30 PM EST

Sixers Current Record: 11-17

Jazz Current Record: 7-22

Sixers Injuries: Eric Gordon – Day To Day (Mouth), Joel Embiid – Day To Day (Foot), Andre Drummond – Day To Day (Toe), KJ Martin – Out (Foot), Jared McCain – Out (Meniscus tear)

Jazz Injuries: John Collins – Day To Day (Hip), Keyonte George – Day To Day (Ankle), Jordan Clarkson – Day To Day (Foot), Taylor Hendricks – Out (Leg)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 3-2

The Philadelphia 76ers face the Utah Jazz at the Delta Center in what shapes up to be a battle of teams trying to improve their standing in their respective conferences. The 76ers, coming off an impressive road victory against the Boston Celtics, have begun to find their rhythm, led by Tyrese Maxey’s electric scoring and Joel Embiid’s dominance in the paint. Embiid’s status remains uncertain, making Maxey and Paul George key figures in maintaining Philadelphia’s offensive momentum.

The Jazz, on the other hand, continue to struggle this season with a 7-22 record. Injuries have plagued the team, with John Collins, Jordan Clarkson, and Keyonte George all questionable. Lauri Markkanen has been the lone bright spot, but his efforts have not translated into consistent wins. Utah’s 2-10 home record further compounds their issues.

Philadelphia’s defense and experience give them the edge, especially if Embiid suits up. Even without him, Maxey’s ability to control the game could prove decisive. The Jazz will need significant contributions from their bench and a strong showing from Markkanen to keep this contest close.

Prediction: Sixers def. Jazz 115-104

Dallas Mavericks At Portland Trail Blazers – 10:00 PM EST

Mavericks Current Record: 20-11

Blazers Current Record: 10-20

Mavericks Injuries: Dereck Lively II – Out (Hip), Luka Doncic – Out (Calf), Dante Exum – Out (Wrist)

Blazers Injuries: Robert Williams III – Day To Day (Ankle), Toumani Carmara – Day To Day (Foot), Dalano Banton – Day To Day (Hip), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Mavericks Lead 5-0

The Dallas Mavericks will face the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center in a matchup featuring teams on different trajectories this season. The Mavericks have relied heavily on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving to spearhead their offense. Despite Doncic’s recent injuries, the Mavericks have found ways to win through strong performances by their supporting cast, including Klay Thompson and Quentin Grimes.

The Trail Blazers are in a rebuilding phase but have shown flashes of competitiveness. Anfernee Simons, Shaedon Sharpe, and Deandre Ayton lead their efforts, though the team’s defense and consistency remain major concerns. Portland’s 43.2 rebounds per game and inefficiency in defending the perimeter have often left them vulnerable against high-powered offenses like Dallas.

Dallas has dominated the recent head-to-head meetings, winning their last six encounters, including a decisive 132-108 victory earlier this season. The Mavericks’ ability to move the ball effectively and hit from beyond the arc makes them favorites, even on the road.

Prediction: Mavericks def. Blazers 120-110

Sacramento Kings At Los Angeles Lakers – 10:30 PM EST

Kings Current Record: 13-18

Lakers Current Record: 17-13

Kings Injuries: Domantas Sabonis – Day To Day (Illness)

Lakers Injuries: Anthony Davis – Day To Day (Ankle), D’Angelo Russell – Day To Day (Thumb), Rui Hachimura – Day To Day (Illness), LeBron James – Day To Day (Illness), Christian Wood – Out (Knee), Jarred Vanderbilt – Out (Knee), Jalen Hood-Schifino – Out (Hamstring), Jaxson Hayes – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Lakers Lead 3-2

The Los Angeles Lakers host the Sacramento Kings in a Pacific Division showdown at Crypto.com Arena. The Lakers look to extend their dominance over the Kings after securing three victories in their earlier meetings this season. The Kings, reeling from a poor stretch, recently parted ways with coach Mike Brown and will aim to find stability under new leadership.

For the Lakers, Anthony Davis remains pivotal, averaging 25.7 points and 11.4 rebounds, while LeBron James continues his all-around brilliance, contributing 23.5 points, 9 assists, and clutch playmaking. Austin Reaves adds a reliable scoring punch, evident from his game-winning performance on Christmas Day against the Warriors. However, injuries to D’Angelo Russell and Davis’s recent ankle roll may impact their depth.

Sacramento will lean heavily on De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, who have been the Kings’ most consistent performers. Sabonis’s ability to dominate the glass and Fox’s speed could give the Kings an edge in transition. The supporting cast, including DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk, must step up offensively, especially against a Lakers team that excels defensively at the rim.

Prediction: Lakers def. Kings 112-109