NBA Daily Picks For November 27, 2024: Lakers Look To Snap Losing Streak Against Spurs

After a flawless 5-0 outing last night, our record has soared to 93-53, elevating our accuracy rate to an impressive 63.6%. Tonight’s action is packed, with 28 of the league’s 30 teams hitting the court for a massive 14-game slate.

The evening kicks off with the Atlanta Hawks facing the dominant Cleveland Cavaliers in what promises to be an electrifying Eastern Conference clash. Meanwhile, the Portland Trail Blazers take on the Indiana Pacers in a game that should feature plenty of offensive firepower. The Chicago Bulls meet the Orlando Magic in a crucial game for two teams striving to climb the standings.

Elsewhere, the Los Angeles Clippers square off against the Washington Wizards, while the Miami Heat battle the Charlotte Hornets in a Southeast Division showdown. The Houston Rockets face the Philadelphia 76ers in a contest that pits young energy against veteran leadership. The New York Knicks then take on the Dallas Mavericks, showcasing a battle of physicality and finesse.

Later, the Detroit Pistons visit the Memphis Grizzlies, followed by the Toronto Raptors taking on the New Orleans Pelicans in a game featuring versatile rosters. The Sacramento Kings face the Minnesota Timberwolves, while the Los Angeles Lakers look to snap their losing streak against the San Antonio Spurs.

As the night progresses, the Brooklyn Nets challenge the Phoenix Suns in a clash of talent and depth. The Denver Nuggets meet the Utah Jazz in a battle of the West’s rising and established stars. Finally, the Oklahoma City Thunder close the night against the Golden State Warriors, where young talent faces championship pedigree.

Let’s aim for another standout night as we break down these matchups and predict the outcomes.

Atlanta Hawks At Cleveland Cavaliers – 7 PM EST

Hawks Current Record: 7-11

Cavaliers Current Record: 17-1

Hawks Injuries: Trae Young – Day To Day (Achilles), Cody Zeller – Out (Personal), Seth Lundy – Out (Ankle)

Cavaliers Injuries: Dean Wade – Out (Ankle), Caris LeVert – Out (Knee), Max Strus – Out (Ankle), Emoni Bates – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Cavaliers Lead 3-2

The Cleveland Cavaliers host the Atlanta Hawks at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in a matchup that showcases two teams on vastly different trajectories this season. The Cavaliers have been dominant, boasting the best record in the league and showcasing elite performances from Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Jarrett Allen. Cleveland’s balance between high-powered offense and defensive tenacity has made them one of the toughest teams to beat, particularly at home.

On the other hand, the Hawks have struggled with consistency, particularly on defense, where they have allowed over 120 points per game this season. Despite bright spots like Jalen Johnson’s emergence and Trae Young’s playmaking, Atlanta’s inability to defend the perimeter and their struggles in transition defense make this a challenging matchup. The Hawks’ road record and history against Central Division opponents add to their uphill battle.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Hawks 123-111

Portland Trail Blazers At Indiana Pacers – 7 PM EST 

Blazers Current Record: 7-11

Pacers Current Record: 8-10

Blazers Injuries: Kris Murray – Day To Day (Chest), Jerami Grant – Day To Day (Knee), Deandre Ayton – Out (Finger), Robert Williams III – Out (Concussion) Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle), Donovan Cilngan – Out (Knee)

Pacers Injuries: Johnny Furphy – Day To Day (Ankle), Ben Sheppard – Out (Oblique), Aaron Nesmith – Out (Ankle), Andrew Nembhard – Out (Knee), Isaiah Jackson – Out (Achilles), James Wiseman – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Blazers Lead 3-2

The Indiana Pacers will host the Portland Trail Blazers in a midweek clash at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Pacers, sitting at 8-10, are showing signs of life after consecutive wins against the Wizards and Pelicans, led by standout performances from Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. However, their defensive struggles remain a concern, particularly against teams that attack the paint.

The Trail Blazers, meanwhile, are 7-11 and have dropped three of their last four games. With inconsistent shooting and a league-leading turnover rate, Portland’s offense has been erratic, although young stars like Shaedon Sharpe and Scoot Henderson have shown flashes of brilliance. Jerami Grant and Deandre Ayton provide experience, but injuries and lack of rhythm have hampered their impact.

Expect the Pacers’ efficient offense and home-court advantage to give them the edge over a rebuilding Trail Blazers squad. 

Prediction: Pacers def. Blazers 122-114

Chicago Bulls At Orlando Magic – 7 PM EST

Bulls Current Record: 8-11

Magic Current Record: 12-7

Bulls Injuries: Lonzo Ball – Out (Wrist), Patrick Williams – Out (Foot), Adama Sanogo – Out (Knee)

Magic Injuries: Gary Harris – Out (Hamstring), Paolo Banchero – Out (Oblique)

Last 5 Meetings: Magic Lead 4-1

The Orlando Magic host the Chicago Bulls in a clash that highlights two teams in contrasting form. The Magic remain unbeaten at home this season (8-0) and are riding high after back-to-back wins, including Franz Wagner’s heroics in a tight victory over the Detroit Pistons. Wagner has been a revelation, averaging 23.6 points, 5.6 assists, and playing a critical role in both scoring and playmaking. Despite injuries to Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter Jr., the Magic have maintained momentum but need to address defensive lapses, particularly in rebounding and paint protection.

The Bulls, on the other hand, have struggled with consistency. While Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic continue to lead offensively, the team’s defensive intensity and three-point shooting woes have been glaring issues. Coming off a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, the Bulls need to find a way to limit turnovers and execute more efficiently on both ends of the floor.

Prediction: Magic def. Bulls 115-104

Los Angeles Clippers At Washington Wizards – 7 PM EST

Clippers Current Record: 11-8

Wizards Current Record: 2-14

Clippers Injuries: Mo Bamba – Day To Day (Knee), Kobe Brown – Day To Day (Back), Norman Powell – Out (Hamstring), Kawhi Leonard – Out (Knee), P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team)

Wizards Injuries: Jordan Poole – Out (Hip), Tristan Vukcevic – Out (Knee), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 5-0

The Washington Wizards face the Los Angeles Clippers at the Capital One Arena in a matchup of teams coming off contrasting performances. The Wizards enter on a grueling back-to-back, having lost 12 straight games and struggling defensively, allowing a league-worst 123.2 points per game. Their offensive inefficiency compounds their woes, with a 32.5% three-point shooting percentage ranking among the league’s worst.

The Clippers, meanwhile, are coming off a stinging 32-point loss to the Boston Celtics. With stars like Kawhi Leonard sidelined and James Harden leading the charge, the Clippers will aim to bounce back against a team struggling to find its footing. Despite their inconsistency, the Clippers boast a top-five defense, allowing just 107.5 points per game.

Key matchups include the Clippers’ defensive prowess against Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole’s scoring efforts for the Wizards. The Wizards must start strong and exploit their youthful energy to stay competitive against a more rested Clippers squad.

Prediction: Clippers def. Wizards 115-101

Miami Heat At Charlotte Hornets – 7 PM EST

Heat Current Record: 7-8

Hornets Current Record: 6-11

Heat Injuries: Kevin Love – Day To Day (Back), Dru Smith – Out (Knee)

Hornets Injuries: Tre Mann – Out (Back), Grant Williams – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Heat Lead 5-0

The Miami Heat visit the Charlotte Hornets in what should be an intriguing Southeast Division battle. Miami enters this matchup after a tough loss to the Milwaukee Bucks but has shown resilience throughout the season. Tyler Herro has been a standout, averaging nearly 24 points per game, while Bam Adebayo continues to anchor the defense and provide interior scoring. The Heat’s efficient three-point shooting and veteran leadership give them an edge, even on the second night of a back-to-back.

Charlotte, led by LaMelo Ball’s scoring brilliance (31 points per game), has struggled to turn individual performances into team success. Brandon Miller has shown promise as a secondary scorer, but the Hornets’ defense remains a glaring weakness, allowing over 114 points per game. Their inconsistent shooting and inability to close games have been costly, especially against disciplined teams like Miami.

The Heat’s strong track record against the Hornets, coupled with their defensive discipline and experience, should help them secure a victory. Expect a close game, but Miami’s ability to execute in clutch moments will make the difference.

Prediction: Heat def. Hornets 115-110

Houston Rockets At Philadelphia 76ers – 7 PM EST

Rockets Current Record: 13-6

Sixers Current Record: 3-13

Rockets Injuries: Steven Adams – Out (Knee)

Sixers Injuries: Caleb Martin – Day To Day (Rockets), Kyle Lowry – Out (Hip), Paul George – Out (Knee), Joel Embiid – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 4-1

The Philadelphia 76ers host the surging Houston Rockets at Wells Fargo Center in a clash between two teams on opposite ends of the standings. The Rockets, winners of eight of their last ten games, come into this game off a hard-fought overtime win against the Minnesota Timberwolves, while the 76ers continue to grapple with injuries and inconsistency.

The Sixers are struggling without Joel Embiid and Paul George, who remain sidelined with knee injuries. Tyrese Maxey and rookie Jared McCain will need to carry the offensive load. McCain has been a bright spot for Philadelphia, while Maxey’s scoring ability provides hope, but the team’s 3-13 record highlights their challenges.

The Rockets, led by Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green, have been playing cohesive basketball. Sengun is fresh off a triple-double performance and continues to anchor Houston’s offense. With their balanced attack and strong recent form, the Rockets pose a significant challenge.

Prediction: Rockets def. Sixers 119-111

New York Knicks At Dallas Mavericks – 7:30 PM EST

Knicks Current Record: 10-7

Mavericks Current Record: 10-8

Knicks Injuries: Mitchell Robinson – Out (Ankle), Precious Achiuwa – Out (Hamstring), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)

Mavericks Injuries: Quentin Grimes – Day To Day (Illness), Dereck Lively Ii – Day To Day (Illness), Klay Thompson – Day To Day (Foot), Luka Doncic – Out (Wrist), Dante Exum – Out (Wrist)

Last 5 Meetings: Mavericks Lead 4-1

The New York Knicks (10-7) visit the Dallas Mavericks (11-7) in a much-anticipated showdown at the American Airlines Center. The Knicks come into this game after a dominant 145-118 win over the Denver Nuggets, showcasing their offensive firepower. Jalen Brunson continues to lead New York, averaging 24.9 points per game and proving instrumental in their recent stretch of seven wins in 10 games. Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby add valuable depth on both ends of the floor.

The Mavericks face challenges with Luka Doncic sidelined due to injury. Kyrie Irving is tasked with carrying the offensive load, supported by Klay Thompson (questionable) and P.J. Washington. Despite their strong start to the season, the Mavericks have struggled against playoff-caliber teams and will need a full-team effort to contain the Knicks’ versatile lineup.

Prediction: Knicks def. Mavericks 119-110

Detroit Pistons At Memphis Grizzlies – 8 PM EST

Pistons Current Record: 8-11

Grizzlies Current Record: 11-7

Pistons Injuries: Bobi Klintman – Out (Calf), Tobias Harris – Day To Day (Hip), Cade Cunningham – Out (Hip)

Grizzlies Injuries: Ja Morant – Out (Knee), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Ankle), Zach Edey – Out (Ankle), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Grizzlies Lead 5-0

The Detroit Pistons visit the Memphis Grizzlies at the FedExForum in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. Detroit comes into this game fresh off a thrilling buzzer-beater win over the Toronto Raptors, led by Jaden Ivey’s 25 points and game-winning shot. The Pistons have shown resilience but remain shorthanded without Cade Cunningham, their star playmaker, which limits their ceiling.

The Grizzlies, on the other hand, are riding a three-game winning streak and are looking sharp. Memphis dominated the Portland Trail Blazers in their last outing, with Ja Morant posting a double-double (22 points, 11 assists) and Jaren Jackson Jr. contributing 21 points and stellar defense. Their bench, led by Santi Aldama’s 17 rebounds, has been instrumental in their recent success.

Memphis boasts a strong record against Detroit, winning seven straight matchups. With their defensive prowess and home-court advantage, the Grizzlies are well-positioned to extend their streak. The Pistons’ chances hinge on replicating their defensive intensity and relying on players like Ivey and Jalen Duren to step up.

Prediction: Grizzlies def. Pistons 115-110

Toronto Raptors At New Orleans Pelicans – 8 PM EST

Raptors Current Record: 4-14

Pelicans Current Record: 4-14

Raptors Injuries: Bruce Brown – Out (Knee), Gradey Dick – Out (Calf), Immanuel Quickley – Out (Elbow), Kelly Olynyk – Out (Back), D.J. Carton – Out (Ankle)

Pelicans Injuries: Trey Murphy III – Day To Day (Knee), Jordan Hawkins – Day To Day (Back), Brandon Ingram – Day To Day (Calf), Herbert Jones – Out (Shoulder), Zion Williamson – Out (Hamstring), Jose Alvarado – Out (Hamstring)

Last 5 Meetings: Pelicans Lead 4-1

The Toronto Raptors visit the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center in a battle between two struggling teams eager to turn their seasons around. The Raptors enter the game on a 10-game road losing streak and are looking for their first win away from home in nearly a month. Meanwhile, the Pelicans have dropped five consecutive games and will rely on their home crowd to spark a turnaround.

Toronto is coming off a narrow 102-100 loss to the Detroit Pistons, despite a strong performance from Scottie Barnes, who scored 31 points. The Raptors have shown promise offensively but remain inconsistent, with RJ Barrett leading their scoring effort. Defensively, they struggle to limit opponents, allowing nearly 118 points per game.

The Pelicans, led by Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, have also faced significant challenges, ranking among the league’s lowest-scoring teams. Despite this, Yves Missi has been a bright spot with his strong rebounding and interior presence. Their defense, while slightly better than Toronto’s, has not been enough to cover up their offensive shortcomings.

Prediction: Pelicans def. Raptors 110-107

Sacramento Kings At Minnesota Timberwolves – 8 PM EST

Kings Current Record: 8-10

Wolves Current Record: 8-9

Kings Injuries: Isaiah Crawford – Out (Ankle), DeMar DeRozan – Out (Back), Trey Lyles – Out (Calf), Mason Jones – Out (Hamstring)

Wolves Injuries: Joe Ingles – Day To Day (Calf), Mike Conley – Out (Toe)

Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 3-2

The Sacramento Kings (8-10) face the Minnesota Timberwolves (8-8) at the Target Center in what promises to be an exciting Western Conference matchup. Both teams are eager to bounce back after recent struggles, with the Kings on a four-game losing streak and the Timberwolves dropping three consecutive games.

The Kings, led by De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, have showcased their offensive firepower, averaging 114.1 points per game on 48.3% shooting. However, defensive inconsistencies have plagued them, as they allow opponents to shoot 38.1% from beyond the arc. Sacramento will lean heavily on Fox, who is averaging an impressive 28.1 points per game, and Sabonis, who continues to dominate on the boards.

The Timberwolves, anchored by Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle, have been solid defensively, allowing 111 points per game. Edwards has been a standout, averaging 27.9 points per game while shooting nearly 41% from three-point range. Randle’s versatility and Rudy Gobert’s interior presence add depth to the Timberwolves’ lineup, making them a formidable opponent at home.

Minnesota holds an edge in recent head-to-head meetings, having won their last two matchups against Sacramento, including a thrilling overtime victory earlier this month. The Timberwolves’ ability to protect home court gives them an advantage, especially with the Kings struggling on the road.

Prediction: Wolves def. Kings 125-118

Los Angeles Lakers At San Antonio Spurs – 8:30 PM EST

Lakers Current Record: 10-7

Spurs Current Record: 10-8

Lakers Injuries: Jaxson Hayes – Out (Ankle), Bronny James – Out (Heel), Jarred Vanderbilt – Out (Foot), Christian Wood – Out (Knee)

Spurs Injuries: Devin Vassell – Out (Knee), Jeremy Sochan – Out (Thumb)

Last 5 Meetings: Lakers Lead 4-1

The Los Angeles Lakers travel to the Frost Bank Center to take on the San Antonio Spurs in an exciting Western Conference clash. Both teams are looking to solidify their positions in the playoff race as the NBA season progresses.

The Lakers are led by the dynamic duo of Anthony Davis and LeBron James. Davis has been dominant this season, averaging 29.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. LeBron, even in his 22nd season, continues to be a force, contributing 23.3 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game. The Lakers’ supporting cast, including Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell, will need to step up to secure a win on the road.

The Spurs, meanwhile, are anchored by rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, who has been making an immediate impact with averages of 23.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game. Wembanyama, alongside Keldon Johnson and Devin Vassell, gives the Spurs a balanced attack. Veteran Chris Paul provides leadership and playmaking, averaging 8.3 assists per game.

The Lakers enter as slight favorites due to their star power and experience, but the Spurs have been strong at home, boasting an 8-3 record. The key matchup to watch will be Anthony Davis versus Victor Wembanyama, as both big men are expected to dominate on both ends of the floor.

Prediction: Lakers def. Spurs 117-112

Brooklyn Nets At Phoenix Suns – 9 PM EST

Nets Current Record: 8-10

Suns Current Record: 10-7

Nets Injuries: Dorian Finney-Smith – Day To Day (Ankle), Cameron Johnson – Day To Day (Ankle), Nic Claxton – Day To Day (Back), Noah Clowney – Out (Ankle), Bojan Bogdanovic – Out (Foot), Day’Ron Sharpe – Out (Hamstring)

Suns Injuries: Collin Gillespie – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Suns Lead 4-1

The Brooklyn Nets face off against the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center in a clash that sees both teams eager to build momentum in the midst of an intense NBA season.

The Nets come into this matchup riding a two-game win streak, having secured victories against quality opponents in the Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors. Brooklyn’s strong shooting performance (48.7% from the field and over 40% from beyond the arc) has been a key factor in their recent success. 

The Suns, on the other hand, are desperate to regain their footing after a tough stretch, including a five-game losing streak prior to their win against the Lakers. The Nets’ defensive struggles, allowing opponents to shoot 48.1% from the field, provide an opportunity for the Suns to exploit.

The game’s outcome hinges on Durant’s availability. With his presence, Phoenix’s offensive efficiency and leadership elevate significantly, making them favorites on their home court.

Prediction: Suns def. Nets 119-110

Denver Nuggets At Utah Jazz – 9 PM EST

Nuggets Current Record: 9-7

Jazz Current Record: 4-13

Nuggets Injuries: Peyton Watson – Day To Day (Hip), Aaron Gordon – Out (Calf), Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Jazz Injuries: Lauri Markkanen – Day To Day (Knee), Kyle Filipowski – Out (Ankle), Jordan Clarkson – Out (Foot), Taylor Hendricks – Out (Leg)

Last 5 Meetings: Nuggets Lead 4-1

The Denver Nuggets travel to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Jazz in a Western Conference matchup at the Delta Center. Both teams have experienced rocky starts to their seasons and will look to gain some momentum in this game.

The Nuggets have shown flashes of brilliance but have struggled with consistency, alternating wins and losses this season. Nikola Jokic has been sensational, averaging 29.7 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 10.9 assists per game, but he needs more consistent support from Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Denver’s offense is one of the league’s most efficient, scoring 117.5 points per game on 47.6% shooting. However, their defense has been a weakness, allowing 116.6 points per contest.

The Jazz, meanwhile, are in rebuilding mode but have talented pieces like Lauri Markkanen and John Collins. Markkanen leads the team with 20.1 points per game, and rookie Keyonte George has impressed with his playmaking abilities. Utah’s defense has been porous, giving up 118.5 points per game, and their offense has lacked consistency despite flashes of balance. Walker Kessler’s presence in the paint will be crucial as they look to slow down Jokic.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Jazz 124-110

Oklahoma City Thunder At Golden State Warriors – 10 PM EST

Thunder Current Record: 13-4

Warriors Current Record: 12-5

Thunder Injuries: Alex Ducas – Day To Day (Hip), Alex Caruso – Out (Hip), Ousmane Dieng – Out (Ring), Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Jaylin Williams – Out (Hamstring), Nikola Topi – Out (ACL)

Warriors Injuries: Stephen Curry – Day To Day (Knee), Jonathan Kuminga – Day To Day (Illness), De’Anthony Melton – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 3-2

The Oklahoma City Thunder (13-4) travel to face the Golden State Warriors (12-5) in what promises to be an exciting Western Conference clash. Both teams are top contenders, with the Thunder currently leading the conference. OKC enters this matchup after a dominant win over the Sacramento Kings, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, who combined for 65 points. The Thunder have excelled defensively this season, allowing the fewest points per game in the league.

Golden State, on the other hand, is coming off a disappointing loss to the Brooklyn Nets, where they blew an 18-point lead. With Stephen Curry listed as questionable, the Warriors’ offensive rhythm could hinge on his availability. The team has been strong from beyond the arc, but their defense has struggled at times, particularly in transition. The Warriors’ ability to capitalize on three-point shooting will be critical against OKC’s sturdy defense.

Prediction: Thunder def. Warriors 115-110