Fadeaway World is back with its daily picks series after an impressive 64.3% accuracy rate last season. This time, we’re starting from day one, delivering predictions for every game. We kicked off the 2024-25 season on opening night with a solid 2-0 record. Now, on the second day of the season, we’ve got 10 exciting games lined up.
- Indiana Pacers At Detroit Pistons – 7 PM EST
- Brooklyn Nets At Atlanta Hawks – 7:30 PM EST
- Orlando Magic At Miami Heat – 7:30 PM EST
- Milwaukee Bucks At Philadelphia 76ers – 7:30 PM EST
- Cleveland Cavaliers At Toronto Raptors – 7:30 PM EST
- Charlotte Hornets At Houston Rockets – 8 PM EST
- Chicago Bulls At New Orleans Pelicans – 8 PM EST
- Memphis Grizzlies At Utah Jazz – 9 PM EST
- Phoenix Suns At Los Angeles Clippers – 10 PM EST
- Golden State Warriors At Portland Trail Blazers – 10 PM EST
The Indiana Pacers open their season against the Detroit Pistons, while the Brooklyn Nets face the Atlanta Hawks. The Orlando Magic square off against the Miami Heat in what promises to be a fierce battle. The Milwaukee Bucks take on the Philadelphia 76ers, though both teams will be missing key players due to injuries. The Cleveland Cavaliers meet the Toronto Raptors, and the Charlotte Hornets face off against the Houston Rockets.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls clash with the New Orleans Pelicans, and the Memphis Grizzlies meet the Utah Jazz. In the Western Conference, the Phoenix Suns will battle the Los Angeles Clippers. Finally, the Golden State Warriors begin a new era without Klay Thompson as they take on the Portland Trail Blazers.
Take a look at the in-depth analysis and predictions for each game below.
Indiana Pacers At Detroit Pistons – 7 PM EST
Pacers 2023-24 Record: 47-35
Pistons 2023-24 Record: 14-68
Pacers Injuries: Isaiah Jackson – Day To Day (Groin)
Pistons Injuries: Ausar Thompson – Out (Illness), Bobi Klintman – Out (Calf)
Last 5 Meetings: Pacers Lead 4-1
The Indiana Pacers are coming off a strong season, where they reached the Eastern Conference Finals, and they’ve retained their core, led by Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, and Myles Turner. Their offensive firepower was among the best in the league last season, and they will look to capitalize on that against a rebuilding Detroit Pistons team.
Detroit, under new head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, has revamped its roster with key veteran additions like Tobias Harris, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Malik Beasley, while leaning on young stars such as Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren. While the Pistons have shown renewed energy in the preseason, the Pacers’ experience and cohesive play should give them the edge.
Expect Detroit to start strong, potentially surprising Indiana early with their defensive intensity. However, Indiana’s offensive efficiency, coupled with Detroit’s lack of chemistry, will likely lead to the Pacers pulling away.
Prediction: Pacers def. Pistons 115-106
Brooklyn Nets At Atlanta Hawks – 7:30 PM EST
Nets 2023-24 Record: 32-50
Hawks 2024-24 Record: 36-46
Nets Injuries: Trendon Watford – Out (Hamstring), Bojan Bogdanovic – Out (Foot), Day’Ron Sharpe – Out (Hamstring)
Hawks Injuries: Cody Zeller – Out (Away from team), Seth Lundy – Out (Ankle), Domicick Barlow – Out (Back), Kobe Bufkin – Out (Shoulder)
Last 5 Meetings: Nets Lead 4-1
The Brooklyn Nets head into this game with a revamped roster and new coach, Jordi Fernandez, but they still face an uphill battle, especially against a more polished Atlanta Hawks team. While Cam Thomas and Nic Claxton are expected to lead Brooklyn, Mikal Bridges‘ departure leaves the team without a true star. Ben Simmons is the wild card, but it’s uncertain if he can return to his All-NBA form. Injuries to key players like Day’Ron Sharpe and Bojan Bogdanovic further thin Brooklyn’s lineup, making depth a concern.
On the other hand, the Atlanta Hawks look to bounce back from a disappointing play-in exit last season. Trae Young is back as the focal point, and first overall pick Zaccharie Risacher adds excitement to a young, dynamic squad. Jalen Johnson has shown promise in the preseason, and Atlanta’s bench depth, led by Bogdan Bogdanovic and Larry Nance Jr., gives them a distinct advantage.
Expect the Hawks to dominate at home, with Trae Young leading the charge against Brooklyn’s shaky defense.
Prediction: Hawks def. Nets 117-105
Orlando Magic At Miami Heat – 7:30 PM EST
Magic 2023-24 Record: 47-35
Heat 2023-24 Record: 46-36
Magic Injuries: N/A
Heat Injuries: Josh Richardson – Out (Heel)
Last 5 Meetings: Heat Lead 4-1
The Miami Heat face off against the Orlando Magic in what promises to be a tightly contested matchup. Miami, led by Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, is looking to rebound after an injury-riddled 2023-24 season that saw them finish as the 8th seed in the East. With Butler needing to shoulder much of the offensive load, there’s pressure on Tyler Herro and new addition Terry Rozier to step up. Miami’s strength lies in its defensive prowess, but they’ll need to be more consistent on offense.
On the other hand, the Orlando Magic, led by young stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, are a rising force in the Eastern Conference. They added Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in the offseason, providing some much-needed 3-and-D support. The Magic boast one of the league’s best defenses and will look to slow down Miami’s star-driven offense while leveraging Banchero’s versatile scoring and Wagner’s playmaking.
This game could be a defensive battle, but Orlando’s youthful energy and improved roster might give them the edge.
Prediction: Magic def. Heat 104-101
Milwaukee Bucks At Philadelphia 76ers – 7:30 PM EST
Bucks 2023-24 Record: 49-33
Sixers 2024-24 Record – 47-35
Bucks Injuries: Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Patella), Khris Middleton – Out (Ankle)
Sixers Injuries: Paul George – Out (Knee), Joel Embiid – Out (Knee)
Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 4-1
The Milwaukee Bucks come into this matchup as road favorites against a shorthanded Philadelphia 76ers team missing both Joel Embiid and Paul George due to injuries. With the absence of their two stars, the Sixers will lean heavily on Tyrese Maxey, who had a breakout season last year. Maxey will need to take on a significant scoring and playmaking role, but the Sixers will face challenges without the inside presence of Embiid to match up against Milwaukee’s dominant frontcourt.
For the Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard will headline a formidable attack. Even with Khris Middleton out, Milwaukee has plenty of firepower with role players like Gary Trent Jr. and Brook Lopez, who provide both offense and defense. Giannis will likely be too much for Philadelphia’s thin frontcourt to handle, and Lillard’s scoring ability will further tip the scales in Milwaukee’s favor.
The Sixers will put up a fight, but without their key players, Milwaukee should pull away late to secure a solid road victory.
Prediction: Bucks def. Sixers 116-109
Cleveland Cavaliers At Toronto Raptors – 7:30 PM EST
Cavaliers 2023-24 Record: 48-34
Raptors 2023-24 Record: 25-57
Cavaliers Injuries Max Strus – Out (Hip), Emoni Bates – Out (Knee)
Raptors Injuries: Kelly Olynyk – Out (Back), RJ Barrett – Out (Shoulder), Bruce Brown – Out (Knee), Ja’Kobe Walter – Out (Shoulder)
Last 5 Meetings: Cavaliers Lead 3-2
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors tip off their 2024-25 NBA season in what should be an exciting opener at Scotiabank Arena. The Cavaliers are looking to build off last season’s strong campaign, spearheaded by the dynamic backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, along with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen anchoring the defense. Cleveland’s offseason additions, like coach Kenny Atkinson, and a healthy roster will be critical as they aim to solidify their standing in the Eastern Conference.
Toronto, on the other hand, is coming off a tough season where they struggled down the stretch. With young talents like Scottie Barnes leading the charge and new faces like Immanuel Quickley expected to step up, the Raptors are in a rebuilding phase but still possess a lot of promise.
This game will set the tone for both teams, with Cleveland favored to start strong on the road and expected to come away with the win.
Prediction: Cavaliers def. Raptors 114-104
Charlotte Hornets At Houston Rockets – 8 PM EST
Hornets 2023-24 Record: 21-61
Rockets 2023-24 Record: 41-41
Hornets Injuries: N/A
Rockets Injuries: Steven Adams – Day To Day (Calf)
Last 5 Meetings: Rockets Lead 3-2
The Houston Rockets come into this matchup as clear favorites against the Charlotte Hornets. With a young core featuring Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Jabari Smith Jr., Houston has steadily improved under head coach Ime Udoka. Fred VanVleet provides veteran leadership, while Dillon Brooks adds toughness on the defensive end. The Rockets are aiming for a playoff push this season, and a win in the season opener would set a strong tone.
For the Hornets, health is the key, with LaMelo Ball returning after an injury-riddled season. Brandon Miller showed flashes of brilliance as a rookie, and his development will be vital for Charlotte’s success. However, the team is still in rebuild mode, and with Cody Martin and Mark Williams dealing with injuries, the Hornets may struggle to contain Houston’s offensive firepower.
Houston’s superior talent, depth, and home-court advantage make them the likely winners in this matchup. Expect the Rockets to control the game, especially with their rebounding and defense.
Prediction: Rockets def. Hornets 121-105
Chicago Bulls At New Orleans Pelicans – 8 PM EST
Bulls 2023-24 Record: 39-43
Pelicans 2023-24 Record: 49-33
Bulls Injuries: N/A
Pelicans Injuries: Jose Alvarado – Day To Day (Knee), Dejounte Murray – Day To Day (Personal), Zion Williamson – Day To Day (Illness), Trey Murphy III – Out (Hamstring)
Last 5 Meetings: Pelicans Lead 3-2
The New Orleans Pelicans enter their season opener as strong favorites against a rebuilding Chicago Bulls team. The Pelicans, led by Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and new addition Dejounte Murray, are a dynamic offensive team with playoff aspirations. However, the health of key players like Williamson and the integration of Murray will be crucial for their success. New Orleans will likely experiment with their lineups, especially with Williamson playing center following Jonas Valanciunas’ departure.
Chicago, meanwhile, is undergoing a transformation after losing DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso in the offseason. Zach LaVine remains the focal point, but the return of Lonzo Ball from a long injury absence, alongside the acquisition of Josh Giddey, presents a new-look backcourt. The Bulls are entering a rebuilding phase and may struggle against the Pelicans’ more cohesive and seasoned lineup.
Prediction: Pelicans def. Bulls 117-108
Memphis Grizzlies At Utah Jazz – 9 PM EST
Grizzlies 2023-24 Record: 27-55
Jazz 2023-24 Record: 31-51
Grizzlies Injuries: Luke Kennard – Out (Foot), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Shin), Cam Spencer – Out (Ankle), Jaren Jackson Jr. – Out (Hamstring), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot)
Jazz Injuries: Johhny Juzang – Out (Thumb), Isaiah Collier – Out (Hamstring)
Last 5 Meetings: Grizzlies Lead 3-2
The Memphis Grizzlies and Utah Jazz are both looking to bounce back from disappointing seasons in 2023-24. Memphis is hopeful that the return of Ja Morant, alongside Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr., will lead to a resurgence in their performance. However, the Grizzlies are dealing with several key injuries, including Jackson Jr. and Luke Kennard, which could hamper their effectiveness on opening night.
Utah, meanwhile, remains a formidable team at home and is led by Lauri Markkanen, who had a stellar season in 2023-24. With the additions of John Collins and the development of younger players like Keyonte George, the Jazz could prove to be a tough opponent. Although Utah struggled with defensive issues last season, their offensive firepower, especially at home, remains a strength.
Given Memphis’ injury situation and Utah’s home-court advantage, the Jazz are in a strong position to open their season with a win but Ja Morant will be an X-Factor.
Prediction: Grizzlies def. Jazz 123-116
Phoenix Suns At Los Angeles Clippers – 10 PM EST
Suns 2023-24 Record: 49-33
Clippers 2023-24 Record: 51-31
Suns Injuries: Damion Lee – Day To Day (Hamstring), Grayson Allen – Day To Day (Achilles), Josh Okogie – Out (Hamstring)
Clippers Injuries: Mo Bamba – Out (Knee), P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team), Kawhi Leonard – Out (Knee)
Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 4-1
The Phoenix Suns take on the Los Angeles Clippers to open the 2024-25 NBA season in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Suns, featuring a star-studded lineup of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, are looking to bounce back from a disappointing playoff run last season. With the addition of veteran point guard Tyus Jones, Phoenix now has a solid playmaker to orchestrate their offense.
The Clippers, on the other hand, are missing Kawhi Leonard due to injury, leaving James Harden to lead the way. While Harden remains an elite playmaker, the absence of Leonard weakens the Clippers on both ends of the floor, making their depth a concern. The Clippers will rely heavily on their role players to step up, but against a more balanced Suns team, it will be a tough challenge.
The Suns’ firepower should overwhelm the short-handed Clippers, leading to a Phoenix victory.
Prediction: Suns def. Clippers 127-116
Golden State Warriors At Portland Trail Blazers – 10 PM EST
Warriors 2023-24 Record: 46-36
Blazers 2023-24 Record: 21-61
Warriors Injuries: Stephen Curry – Day To Day (Finger)
Blazers Injuries: Robert Williams III – Out (Hamstring), Shaedon Sharpe – Out (Shoulder), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Knee)
Last 5 Meetings: Warriors Lead 5-0
The Golden State Warriors are set to face the Portland Trail Blazers in their season opener. The Warriors are entering a new era without Klay Thompson, but they still have the leadership of Stephen Curry, alongside a revamped supporting cast, including Buddy Hield and Kyle Anderson. They’ll look to establish dominance early, especially against a Blazers team in a rebuilding phase.
Portland, with young talents like Scoot Henderson and Deandre Ayton, is focused on development this season. With key players like Shaedon Sharpe out, the Blazers may struggle against a more experienced Warriors squad.
The Warriors, led by Curry, should win comfortably, capitalizing on their depth and experience over a young Blazers team.
Prediction: Warriors def. Blazers 123-110
