NBA Daily Picks For April 2, 2024: Lakers Need To Win Against Raptors To Keep Chasing Kings

Fadeaway World continues its strong performance with a 393-217 season record after a 4-2 showing in the last round of predictions. With a remarkable accuracy rate of 64.4%, tonight’s nine-game slate presents another opportunity for insightful analysis and informed predictions. 

On a packed day of NBA action, the Los Angeles Lakers kick off against the Toronto Raptors, while the Milwaukee Bucks square off against the Washington Wizards. Following that, the Oklahoma City Thunder clash with the Philadelphia 76ers as the New York Knicks meet the Miami Heat. 

Later on, the Houston Rockets take on the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the San Antonio Spurs challenge the Denver Nuggets. The Cleveland Cavaliers go head-to-head with the Utah Jazz as the Dallas Mavericks confront the Golden State Warriors. Wrapping up the day, the Los Angeles Clippers cap off the action against the Sacramento Kings in what promises to be an exhilarating finale.

Los Angeles Lakers At Toronto Raptors – 7 PM EST

Lakers Last 10 Games: 7-3

Raptors Last 10 Games: 0-10

Lakers Injuries: Jaxson Hayes – Day To Day (Calf), LeBron James – Day To Day (Ankle), Anthony Davis – Day To Day (Knee), Jarred Vanderbilt – Out (Foot), Gabe Vincent – Out (Knee), Cam Reddish – Out (Personal), Jalen Hood-Schifino – Out, Christian Wood – Out (Knee)

Raptors Injuries: Chris Boucher – Out (Knee), D.J. Carton – Out (Ankle), Gary Trent Jr. – Out (Rest), Ochai Agbaji – Out (Hip), Immanuel Quickley – Out (Personal), RJ Barrett – Out (Personal), Jakob Poeltl – Out (Hand), Scottie Barnes – Out (Hand), Jontay Porter – Out (Away from team)

Last 5 Meetings: Lakers Lead 3-2

In a cross-conference clash, the Los Angeles Lakers (42-33), currently riding a hot streak with six wins in their last seven games, face off against the struggling Toronto Raptors (23-51), who have dropped their last 13 matchups. Led by the dynamic duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers aim to continue their push toward the playoffs with another victory. 

Meanwhile, the Raptors, who have endured a tumultuous season marred by injuries and roster changes, seek to salvage some pride as they play out the remainder of their campaign. With the Lakers finding their rhythm at the right time and Toronto struggling to regain momentum, expect Los Angeles to emerge victorious in this contest.

Prediction: Lakers def. Raptors 127-114

Milwaukee Bucks At Washington Wizards – 7 PM EST

Bucks Last 10 Games: 6-4

Wizards Last 10 Games: 3-7

Bucks Injuries: Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Hamstring), Patrick Beverley – Day To Day (Wrist), Khris Middleton – Day To Day (Ankle), MarJon Beauchamp – Day To Day (Back), Damian Lillard – Out (Groin)

Wizards Injuries: Jared Butler – Day To Day (Ankle), Richaun Holmes – Day To Day (Toe), Landry Shamet – Out (Calf), Tyus Jones – Out (Back), Kyle Kuzma – Out (Heel), Bilal Coulibaly – Out (Wrist), Isaiah Livers – Out (Hip)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 5-0

In their final matchup of the season, the Milwaukee Bucks (47-27) visit the Washington Wizards (14-61) at the Capital One Arena. The Bucks, currently second in the Eastern Conference, aim to secure another victory to bolster their postseason position. Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has been delivering consistent double-doubles, Milwaukee’s offense has been potent, averaging over 115 points per game in their recent stretch. 

The Wizards, on the other hand, are enduring a rough stretch with three consecutive losses. Without Kyle Kuzma, their leading scorer, due to injury, Washington faces significant challenges on both ends of the floor. While Jordan Poole has stepped up offensively, the Wizards’ defense has been porous, allowing the highest points-per-game average in the league. Against the Bucks’ formidable offense, Washington’s defensive deficiencies could prove costly.

Prediction: Bucks def. Wizards 129-117

Oklahoma City Thunder At Philadelphia 76ers – 7:30 PM EST

Thunder Last 10 Games: 7-3

Sixers Last 10 Games: 4-6

Thunder Injuries: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Day To Day (Quad), Jalen Williams – Day To Day (Ankle)

Sixers Injuries: Tyrese Maxey – Day To Day (Hip), Robert Covington – Out (Knee), Joel Embiid – Out (Knee), De’Anthony Melton – Out (Back)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 4-1

The Oklahoma City Thunder (52-22) face the Philadelphia 76ers (40-35) in what promises to be an intriguing matchup at the Wells Fargo Center. The Thunder, led by MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, showcase a potent offense that ranks among the best in the league. With Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring prowess and solid contributions from players like Jalen Williams and Josh Giddey, the Thunder present a formidable challenge for any opponent.

Meanwhile, the 76ers, dealing with injuries, including the absence of Joel Embiid, have relied on Tyrese Maxey to lead the charge. Despite their offensive struggles without key players, Philadelphia’s defensive prowess and scoring-by-committee approach have kept them competitive. However, facing the Thunder’s high-powered offense will test their defensive resolve.

Prediction: Thunder def. Sixers 126-117

New York Knicks At Miami Heat – 7:30 PM EST

Knicks Last 10 Games: 7-3

Heat Last 10 Games: 6-4

Knicks Injuries: Mitchell Robinson – Day To Day (Ankle), OG Anunoby – Out (Elbow), Duane Washington Jr. – Out (Thumb), Charlie Brown Jr. – Out (Illness), Julius Randle – Out (Shoulder)

Heat Injuries: Duncan Robinson – Day To Day (Back), Nikola Jovic – Day To Day (Knee), Terry Rozier – Day To Day (Knee), Caleb Martin – Day To Day (Ankle), Tyler Herro – Out (Foot), Josh Richardson – Out (Shoulder)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 4-1

The New York Knicks (44-30) face a tough road challenge as they visit the Miami Heat (41-33) at the American Airlines Arena. Despite a valiant effort in their recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Knicks fell short in a nail-biting finish, extending their streak of close losses. Jalen Brunson continues to shine for New York, shouldering much of the offensive burden amidst the team’s injury woes. However, facing a resilient Miami squad led by Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler poses another formidable test for the Knicks.

Miami, coming off a solid win against the Washington Wizards, is looking to maintain their momentum as they battle for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. With Adebayo’s consistent contributions and the team’s collective defensive effort, the Heat aim to secure a crucial victory at home against the Knicks.

Prediction: Knicks def. Heat 122-115

Houston Rockets At Minnesota Timberwolves – 8 PM EST

Rockets Last 10 Games: 9-1

Wolves Last 10 Games: 7-3

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

Wolves Injuries: Jaylen Clark – Out (Achilles), Karl-Anthony Towns – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 4-1

In a matchup poised to showcase the surging Houston Rockets (38-36) against the formidable Minnesota Timberwolves (51-23), both teams enter with distinct narratives. The Timberwolves, holding steady as the third seed in the Western Conference, aim to rebound from a recent loss to the Chicago Bulls. Despite Karl-Anthony Towns‘ absence, Anthony Edwards has stepped up admirably, buoying Minnesota’s competitive edge. 

On the other side, the Rockets, riding a remarkable 13-2 run in their last 15 games, look to continue their momentum and secure a spot in the Play-In Tournament. Jabari Smith Jr. has been a key catalyst for Houston’s resurgence, contributing significantly to their recent success. Expect an intense matchup between these two teams, with the Wolves holding a slight edge.

Prediction: Wolves def. Rockets 121-117

San Antonio Spurs At Denver Nuggets – 9 PM EST

Spurs Last 10 Games: 4-6

Nuggets Last 10 Games: 7-3

Spurs Injuries: Dominick Barlow – Out (Knee), Keldon Johnson – Out (Foot), Devin Vassell – Out (Foot), Jeremy Sochan – Out (Ankle), Charles Bassey – Out (ACL)

Nuggets Injuries: Nikola Jokic – Day To Day (Hip), Aaron Gordon – Day To Day (Foot), Zeke Nnaji – Out (Thigh), Jamal Murray – Out (Knee), Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Nuggets Lead 4-1

In a matchup between the San Antonio Spurs (18-57) and the Denver Nuggets (52-23), contrasting styles collide as both teams seek to rebound from recent outings. The Spurs, despite a valiant effort in their last game, fell short, snapping their three-game streak. With key players out due to injury, San Antonio faces challenges in both scoring consistency and defensive cohesion. 

Conversely, the Nuggets aim to build on their recent dominant performance, led by Nikola Jokic’s stellar play. Denver’s balanced offensive approach and disciplined defense position them as formidable opponents, especially at home in the Pepsi Center.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Spurs 124-115

Cleveland Cavaliers At Utah Jazz – 9 PM EST

Cavaliers Last 10 Games: 4-6

Jazz Last 10 Games: 1-9

Cavaliers Injuries: Craig Porter – Out (Illness), Issac Okoro – Out (Toe), Dean Wade – Out (Knee), Ty Jerome – Out (Ankle)

Jazz Injuries: Jordan Clarkson – Out (Back), John Collins – Out (Back), Lauri Markkanen – Out (Shoulder)

Last 5 Meetings: Cavaliers Lead 3-2

In a matchup between the struggling Cleveland Cavaliers (45-30) and the Utah Jazz (29-46), both teams seek to reverse their recent fortunes. The Cavaliers, despite holding onto a solid playoff position, have stumbled in their recent outings, losing five of their last seven games.

Facing off against a Jazz team eliminated from playoff contention, Cleveland aims to capitalize on their offensive firepower led by Donovan Mitchell. Meanwhile, Utah, mired in a nine-game losing streak, seeks to find some semblance of rhythm before the season’s end. With key injuries plaguing their roster, the Jazz face an uphill battle against a determined Cavaliers squad.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Jazz 123-112

Dallas Mavericks at Golden State Warriors – 10 PM EST

Mavericks Last 10 Games: 9-1

Warriors Last 10 Games: 6-4

Mavericks Injuries: Dereck Lively II – Day To Day (Knee), Josh Green – Out (Ankle)

Warriors Injuries: Klay Thompson – Day To Day (Foot), Jonathan Kuminga – Out (Knee), Dario Saric – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Mavericks Lead 3-2

In a highly anticipated clash, the red-hot Dallas Mavericks (45-29) take on the resurgent Golden State Warriors (40-34) in what promises to be an electrifying matchup. The Mavericks, riding a seven-game winning streak and led by the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, boast an imposing offense that has been hard to contain for opponents. Despite defensive shortcomings, Dallas’s offensive firepower has propelled them to victory consistently. 

Meanwhile, the Warriors, fueled by the sharpshooting of Stephen Curry, have found their rhythm with a four-game winning streak, showcasing their offensive prowess and determination to secure a playoff spot. With both teams hungry for a win, expect a thrilling contest between two formidable Western Conference contenders, with the Mavericks coming out on top.

Prediction: Mavericks def. Warriors 126-121

Los Angeles Clippers At Sacramento Kings – 10 PM EST

Clippers Last 10 Games: 6-4

Kings Last 10 Games: 6-4

Clippers Injuries: Jordan Millers – Out (Achilles), Moussa Diabate – Out

Kings Injuries: Malik Monk – Out (MCL), Jordan Ford – Out, Kevin Huerter – Out (Shoulder)

Last 5 Meetings: Kings Lead 3-2

In a pivotal Western Conference showdown, the Los Angeles Clippers (47-27) take on the Sacramento Kings (43-21) at the Golden 1 Center. The Clippers, led by the dynamic duo of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, arrive fresh off a convincing win over the Hornets, showcasing their offensive prowess and depth. Despite occasional defensive lapses, LA’s offensive firepower makes them a formidable opponent for any team. 

On the other hand, the Sacramento Kings, buoyed by recent victories, are eager to capitalize on their home-court advantage and continue their push for a higher playoff seed. With De’Aaron Fox leading the charge, supported by a well-rounded roster, the Kings aim to outpace the Clippers in a tightly contested battle.

Prediction: Kings def. Clippers 122-114