NBA Daily Picks For November 20, 2024: Warriors Want To Build Lead At Top Of The West

After enduring another tough outing with a 2-4 performance in last night’s predictions, our season record now stands at 73-46, giving us an accuracy rate of 61.3%. Tonight, we’re determined to turn things around with a packed 8-game slate on deck.

The action begins with the New Orleans Pelicans facing the Cleveland Cavaliers in a battle of rising stars and veteran leadership. The Chicago Bulls then clash with the Milwaukee Bucks in a Central Division showdown. Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers take on the Houston Rockets in what should be a high-scoring affair, while the Philadelphia 76ers square off against the Memphis Grizzlies in a game featuring two physical teams.

Later in the evening, the Portland Trail Blazers face the Oklahoma City Thunder in a contest highlighting young talent. The Atlanta Hawks take on the Golden State Warriors in a fast-paced matchup, followed by the New York Knicks meeting the Phoenix Suns in a pivotal inter-conference battle. The night concludes with the Orlando Magic challenging the Los Angeles Clippers in what promises to be an intriguing clash.

Let’s break down these matchups and aim to get back on track with tonight’s predictions.

New Orleans Pelicans At Cleveland Cavaliers – 7:30 PM EST

Pelicans Current Record: 4-11

Cavaliers Current Record: 15-1

Pelicans Injuries: CJ McCollum – Out (Thigh), Dejounte Murray – Out (Hand), Herbert Jones – Out (Shoulder), Jordan Hawkins – Out (Back), Jose Alvarado – Out (Hamstring), Zion Williamson – Out (Hamstring)

Cavaliers Injuries: Issac Okoro – Day To Day (Ankle), Dean Wade – Day To Day (Ankle), Caris LeVert – Day To Day (Knee), Max Strus – Out (Hip), Emoni Bates – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Cavaliers Lead 4-1

The Cleveland Cavaliers host the injury-riddled New Orleans Pelicans in a pivotal matchup. Cleveland has been the league’s most dominant team, averaging 123.7 points per game and shooting at a stellar 52.4% from the field. Led by Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, the Cavaliers’ offense has been relentless, and their defensive discipline has kept opponents in check. 

The Pelicans, on the other hand, are battling key injuries to Zion Williamson and C.J. McCollum, leaving Brandon Ingram to shoulder the load. While Ingram has been solid, scoring consistently in recent games, he lacks the support needed to compete against a well-rounded Cavaliers squad.

Cleveland’s ability to exploit mismatches and maintain their efficient offensive pace will likely overwhelm New Orleans, who are struggling to find consistency. With home-court advantage and superior depth, the Cavaliers should secure a comfortable victory.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Pelicans 121-110

Chicago Bulls At Milwaukee Bucks – 7:30 PM EST

Bulls Current Record: 6-9

Bucks Current Record: 5-9

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

Bucks Injuries: Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Kneecap), Ryan Hollins – Out (Shoulder), Khris Middleton – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 3-2

The Chicago Bulls face the Milwaukee Bucks in what promises to be an intriguing Eastern Conference battle. The Bulls come in fresh off a 122-112 win over the Detroit Pistons. Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic will be pivotal, as both have been consistent offensive contributors. Chicago’s ability to hit threes will be critical against Milwaukee’s defense, which has struggled at times this season.

The Bucks are looking to build momentum after narrowly defeating the Houston Rockets 101-100. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard will spearhead their efforts, with Giannis averaging an impressive 31.4 points and 12.4 rebounds per game. Milwaukee’s success hinges on containing Chicago’s three-point shooters while leveraging their superior inside presence.

While Milwaukee has the edge in talent, Chicago’s recent strong shooting and ability to capitalize on Milwaukee’s defensive lapses give them a chance to keep the game close.

Prediction: Bucks def. Bulls 116-110

Indiana Pacers At Houston Rockets – 8 PM EST

Pacers Current Record: 6-8

Rockets Current Record: 10-5

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

Rockets Injuries: Cam Whitore – Day To Day (Knee), Jalen Green – Day To Day (Illness), N’Faly Dante – Out 

Last 5 Meetings: Pacers Lead 5-0

The Indiana Pacers visit the Houston Rockets in what promises to be a competitive matchup at the Toyota Center. The Pacers, despite struggling on the road recently, have consistently dominated this head-to-head series, winning their last nine games against Houston. Bennedict Mathurin and Tyrese Haliburton will need to lead the way offensively for Indiana, which averages 115.9 points per game but has faced defensive challenges, allowing 117.7 points on average.

The Rockets, on the other hand, are on a strong run at home, winning five consecutive games at the Toyota Center. Houston’s defense has been a key factor, holding opponents to just 105.6 points per game during this stretch. Alperen Sengun has been instrumental, providing double-double performances, while Fred VanVleet and Jalen Green add scoring depth.

With the Rockets’ solid defense and the Pacers’ recent struggles on the road, expect a lower-scoring game.

Prediction: Rockets def. Pacers 112-108

Philadelphia 76ers At Memphis Grizzlies – 8 PM EST

Sixers Current Record: 2-11

Grizzlies Current Record: 8-7

Sixers Injuries: Tyrese Maxey – Out (Hamstring), Kyle Lowry – Out (Hip)

Grizzlies Injuries: Vince Williams Jr. – Day To Day (Ankle), Marcus Smart – Out (Illness), Ja Morant – Out (Hip), Zach Edey – Out (Ankle), Cam Spencer – Out (Ankle), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Grizzlies Lead 3-2

The Memphis Grizzlies take on the struggling Philadelphia 76ers at FedExForum, with Memphis aiming to continue their solid play despite injuries to key players. The Grizzlies have shown resilience led by Jaren Jackson Jr., who has been stellar with averages of 23.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, and elite defensive contributions. Memphis has also received consistent production from Scottie Pippen Jr. and rookie Jaylen Wells, who are stepping up in the absence of Ja Morant.

Philadelphia, on the other hand, is off to a disastrous start. Despite having Joel Embiid on the roster, injuries and inconsistent play have plagued the team. Rookie Jared McCain has been a bright spot, leading the Rookie of the Year race, but he lacks sufficient support. Tyrese Maxey’s questionable status further complicates the Sixers’ chances.

Memphis already defeated Philadelphia earlier this season and, with momentum on their side, they should edge out another victory.

Prediction: Grizzlies def. Sixers 114-108

Portland Trail Blazers At Oklahoma City Thunder – 8 PM EST

Blazers Current Record: 6-8

Thunder Current Record: 11-4

Blazers Injuries: Anfernee Simons – Out (Illness), Deandre Ayton – Out (Finger), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Knee)

Thunder Injuries: Isaiah Joe – Day To Day (Calf), Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Jaylin Williams – Out (Hamstring), Isaiah Hartenstein – Out (Hand), Nikola Topic – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 5-0

The Oklahoma City Thunder take on the Portland Trail Blazers at Paycom Center as the Thunder aim to snap their two-game losing streak. Despite recent struggles, OKC remains one of the stronger teams in the Western Conference, led by the dynamic Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging 28.7 points and 6.3 assists per game. Complementing him is Jalen Williams, whose all-around play continues to impress. The Thunder have historically dominated this matchup, winning their last 10 games against Portland, including a 137-114 victory earlier this season.

The Trail Blazers are riding a rare three-game win streak, with standout performances from Shaedon Sharpe and Dalano Banton. However, injuries to key players like Deandre Ayton and Matisse Thybulle leave Portland vulnerable. Their inconsistent offense, coupled with a lack of defensive depth, poses challenges against a highly efficient Thunder squad.

Given OKC’s strong track record and superior roster, expect the Thunder to control the game and secure a comfortable victory.

Prediction: Thunder def. Blazers 115-101

Atlanta Hawks At Golden State Warriors – 10 PM EST

Hawks Current Record: 7-8

Warriors Current Record: 10-3

Hawks Injuries: Jalen Johnson – Day To Day (Leg), Cody Zeller – Out (Personal), Seth Lundy – Out (Ankle)

Warriors Injuries: Kevon Looney – Day To Day (Illness), Kyle Anderson – Day To Day (Neck), Stephen Curry – Day To Day (Knee), De’Anthony Melton – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Hawks Lead 3-2

The Golden State Warriors host the Atlanta Hawks at the Chase Center in what promises to be an intriguing clash. The Warriors are looking to bounce back after a narrow loss to the Clippers. Stephen Curry leads their offense with 23 points per game, and the team ranks among the league’s best in three-point shooting. Golden State’s defense, anchored by Draymond Green, allows just 110.1 points per game, making them a formidable challenge for Atlanta.

The Hawks are coming off a tight win over the Kings. Trae Young and Jalen Johnson spearhead Atlanta’s offense, but defensive lapses remain a concern, with the team allowing 119.5 points per game. To stay competitive, the Hawks will need sharp shooting and improved defensive discipline against a Warriors squad with home-court momentum.

Prediction: Warriors def. Hawks 120-112

New York Knicks At Phoenix Suns – 10 PM EST

Knicks Current Record: 8-6

Suns Current Record: 9-6

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

Suns Injuries: Jusuf Nurkic – Day To Day (Ankle), Bradley Beal – Out (Calf), Collin Gillespie – Out (Ankle), Kevin Durant – Out (Calf)

Last 5 Meetings: Suns Lead 3-2

The New York Knicks take on the Phoenix Suns in a matchup between two teams trending in opposite directions. The Knicks have been surging, winning three straight games and showcasing a balanced offense led by Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson. Towns has been dominant, averaging 26.2 points and 12.4 rebounds, while Brunson adds scoring and playmaking with 24.4 points and 7.1 assists per game. The Knicks’ well-rounded roster and momentum make them a tough opponent, especially against a depleted Suns squad.

The Suns, struggling with injuries to Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, have dropped four consecutive games. Devin Booker has carried the offensive load, averaging 23.5 points and 6.5 assists, but the absence of key contributors has limited Phoenix’s ability to compete against top-tier teams. Tyus Jones has been a bright spot, but the lack of depth and consistency will challenge the Suns against the Knicks’ high-powered offense.

Prediction: Knicks def. Suns 115-105

Orlando Magic At Los Angeles Clippers – 10:30 PM EST

Magic Current Record: 9-6

Clippers Current Record: 8-7

Magic Injuries: Wendell Carter Jr. – Out (Foot), Paolo Banchero – Out (Oblique)

Clippers Injuries: Normal Powell – Out (Hamstring), Kawhi Leonard – Out (Knee), P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 3-2

The Orlando Magic take on the Los Angeles Clippers in what promises to be a defensive battle at the Intuit Dome. The Magic, riding a six-game winning streak, boast the league’s best defense, allowing just 102.2 points per game. Led by Franz Wagner, who averages 22.9 points per game, Orlando has compensated for the absence of Paolo Banchero with a balanced offensive approach. Despite a lackluster road record, the Magic’s recent form makes them a formidable opponent.

The Clippers have shown signs of improvement with back-to-back wins. However, the absence of Kawhi Leonard significantly impacts their scoring potential. James Harden and Norman Powell will need to lead the charge offensively. The Clippers’ defense, ranked fourth in the league, should keep the game competitive, but their 23rd-ranked offense could struggle against the Magic’s stifling defense.

Prediction: Magic def. Clippers 105-100