NBA Daily Picks For March 14, 2024: Suns Need To Rise In Boston

Despite a challenging 4-5 run, Fadeaway World’s overall season record stands strong at 303-175. With a commitment to excellence, we’re poised to rebound in tonight’s six-game lineup, leveraging our impressive 63.3% accuracy rate. 

The Phoenix Suns clash with the Boston Celtics, followed by the Los Angeles Clippers face the Chicago Bulls. Later, the Washington Wizards meet the Houston Rockets, while the Philadelphia 76ers challenge the Milwaukee Bucks. 

Wrapping up the day, the Dallas Mavericks face the Oklahoma City Thunder, and the New York Knicks take on the Portland Trail Blazers. Get ready for a day packed with exciting NBA action!

Phoenix Suns At Boston Celtics – 7:30 PM EST

Suns Last 10 Games: 5-5

Celtics Last 10 Games: 8-2

Suns Injuries: Eric Gordon – Day To Day (Knee), Josh Okogie – Out (Abdomen), Nassir Little – Out (Knee), Damion Lee – Out (Knee)

Celtics Injuries: Jaylen Brown – Day To Day (Back), Jordan Walsh – Day To Day, Kristaps Porzingis – Out (Hamstring)

Last 5 Meetings: Celtics Lead 3-2

In a highly anticipated showdown, the Phoenix Suns (38-27) are set to take on the Boston Celtics (51-14) at TD Garden in what promises to be a thrilling battle between two powerhouse teams. Fresh off a win against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Suns will look to continue their momentum on the road. 

However, they face a formidable challenge from the Celtics, who currently hold the top spot in the Eastern Conference. With star-studded lineups and intense competition expected, basketball fans can anticipate an electrifying matchup filled with fast-paced action and strategic gameplay, with the Celtics coming out on top. 

Prediction: Celtics def. Suns 127-123

Los Angeles Clippers At Chicago Bulls – 8 PM EST

Clippers Last 10 Games: 5-5

Bulls Last 10 Games: 6-4

Clippers Injuries: James Harden – Day To Day (Shoulder), Kawhi Leonard – Day To Day (Back), Russell Westbrook – Out (Hand)

Bulls Injuries: Coby White – Out (Hip), Lonzo Ball – Out (Knee), Patrick Williams – Out (Foot), Zach LaVine – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 3-2

In a battle of contrasting fortunes, the Los Angeles Clippers (41-23) collide with the Chicago Bulls (32-34) at the United Center. The Clippers come off a disappointing loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, compounded by the absence of star player Kawhi Leonard due to back spasms. With Leonard’s status uncertain, the burden falls on Paul George and James Harden to lead the charge against a resilient Bulls team. 

Meanwhile, the Bulls, grappling with defensive lapses, aim to regroup swiftly, albeit on the tail end of a back-to-back, seeking to rectify their defensive shortcomings and exploit any vulnerabilities in the Clippers’ lineup.

Prediction: Bulls def. Clippers 123-119

Washington Wizards At Houston Rockets – 8 PM EST

Wizards Last 10 Games: 2-8

Rockets Last 10 Games: 6-4

Wizards Injuries: Richuan Holmes – Day To Day (Toe), Landry Shamet – Out (Calf), Marvin Bagley III – Out (Back), Isaiah Livers – Out (Hip)

Rockets Injuries: Cam Whitemore – Out (Knee), Alperen Sengun – Out (Ankle), Tari Eason – Out (Leg), Steven Adams – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Rockets Lead 3-2

In a clash between the Washington Wizards (11-54) and the Houston Rockets (30-35), both teams enter the matchup with differing momentum. The Wizards, despite a recent loss to Memphis, showcased offensive firepower led by Kyle Kuzma and Corey Kispert. However, their defensive struggles, particularly in rebounding and paint protection, pose challenges. 

Conversely, the Rockets ride a three-game winning streak, buoyed by Fred VanVleet’s standout performance against San Antonio. Although missing Alperen Sengun due to injury, Houston’s strong defensive prowess and ability to capitalize on turnovers bode well for their chances.

Prediction: Rockets def. Wizards 119-112

Philadelphia 76ers At Milwaukee Bucks – 8 PM EST

Sixers Last 10 Games: 4-6

Bucks Last 10 Games: 7-3

Sixers Injuries: Robery Covington – Out (Knee), De’Anthony Melton – Out (Back), Joel Embiid – Out (Knee)

Bucks Injuries: MarJon Beauchamp – Day To Day (Back), Patrick Beverley – Day To Day (Hip), Malik Beasley – Day To Day (Back), Khris Middleton – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 3-2

In a matchup between the Philadelphia 76ers (36-29) and the Milwaukee Bucks (42-24), the absence of Joel Embiid looms large for the Sixers as they continue to struggle without their star center. Despite flashes of talent from players like Tyrese Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr., the team has faced significant challenges in generating consistent offense in Embiid’s absence. 

On the other hand, the Bucks, although coming off a rough road trip, still boast formidable talent led by Giannis Antetokounmpo. With the Bucks aiming to bounce back from recent losses and the Sixers grappling with their offensive woes, the Bucks appear poised to capitalize on their home-court advantage and secure a victory in this contest. 

Prediction: Bucks def. Sixers 125-116

Dallas Mavericks At Oklahoma City Thunder – 10 PM EST

Mavericks Last 10 Games: 5-5

Thunder Last 10 Games: 7-3

Mavericks Injuries: Luka Doncic – Out (Hamstring), Brandon Williams – Out (Wrist)

Thunder Injuries: N/A

Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 3-2

The Dallas Mavericks (38-28) are set to visit the Oklahoma City Thunder (45-20) in a matchup that promises to showcase high-octane offense. Led by Luka Doncic’s impressive triple-double performance in their recent win against the Chicago Bulls, the Mavericks will look to maintain their offensive momentum despite the challenge of playing on the second night of a back-to-back. 

Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder, despite coming off a loss to the Indiana Pacers, remain a formidable force in the Western Conference. As they look to bounce back from their recent defeat, expect the Thunder to utilize their home-court advantage and defensive intensity to secure a victory against the Mavericks.

Prediction: Thunder def. Mavericks 125-116

New York Knicks At Portland Trail Blazers – 10 PM EST

Knicks Last 10 Games: 5-5

Blazers Last 10 Games: 4-6

Knicks Injuries: Julius Randle – Out (Shoulder), Mitchell Robinson – Out (Ankle)

Blazers Injuries: Jerami Grant – Day To Day (Hamstring), Jabari Walker – Out (Hip), Malcolm Brogdon – Out (Elbow), Shaedon Sharpe – Out (Abdomen), Robert Williams III – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 3-2

The New York Knicks (38-27) head to Portland to take on the struggling Trail Blazers (19-46) in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. With the Knicks currently holding onto the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference, they aim to continue their recent success led by Jalen Brunson’s impressive scoring and playmaking. Despite missing key players like Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson, the Knicks boast a formidable defense that could pose problems for Portland’s offense.

On the other hand, the Trail Blazers, despite coming off a win against the Hawks, have struggled overall this season, sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference standings. With injuries plaguing their roster, Portland relies heavily on Anfernee Simons for scoring. However, their inconsistent performance and defensive vulnerabilities could make it challenging to contain the Knicks’ offense.

Prediction: Knicks def. Blazers 119-110