NBA Daily Picks For December 26th, 2024: Cavaliers Look To Heap Misery Against Nuggets

After a solid 7-2 performance in last night’s predictions, our season record now stands at 182-107, with an improved accuracy rate of 62.9%. Tonight, we’re set for an exciting 8-game slate featuring marquee matchups and intriguing storylines.

The action begins with the New York Knicks taking on the Orlando Magic, as the Knicks look to continue their solid form against a rising Magic team that has been a tough matchup for most opponents this season. Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers face the dominant Boston Celtics, where the Pacers’ firepower will be tested against Boston’s elite two-way play.

In another game, the San Antonio Spurs aim to get back on track against the Brooklyn Nets, with Victor Wembanyama looking to make an impact against Brooklyn’s versatile lineup. The Minnesota Timberwolves meet the Houston Rockets, with both teams bringing physicality and exciting young talent to the table.

The Memphis Grizzlies face the New Orleans Pelicans in a clash of Western Conference rivals. In a blockbuster showdown, the Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Denver Nuggets, featuring a battle between two of the league’s most balanced rosters.

Later, the Dallas Mavericks face the Phoenix Suns in what promises to be an electrifying matchup. Finally, the Golden State Warriors take on the Los Angeles Clippers, as both teams aim to solidify their positions in the competitive Western Conference standings.

Let’s dive into these matchups and aim for another strong performance tonight.

New York Knicks At Orlando Magic – 7:00 PM EST

Knicks Current Record: 20-10

Magic Current Record: 19-13

Knicks Injuries: Mitchell Robinson – Out (Foot), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)

Magic Injuries: Gary Harris – Out (Hamstring), Paolo Banchero – Out (Oblique), Moritz Wagner – Out (ACL), Franz Wagner – Out (Oblique)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 3-2

The New York Knicks visit the Orlando Magic in a matchup of Eastern Conference contenders at the Kia Center. The Knicks have been in excellent form, riding a five-game road winning streak and showcasing their depth and balance on both ends of the court. Meanwhile, the Magic have been tough to beat at home, boasting a 12-3 record at the Kia Center.

New York’s offense, ranked 7th in the NBA, is led by Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson. Towns is averaging 24.6 points and 13.7 rebounds per game, dominating the paint and stretching defenses with his shooting. Brunson has been equally critical, contributing 24.5 points and 7.6 assists while orchestrating the offense. The Knicks’ supporting cast, including Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby, has provided consistent production on both ends.

The Magic, boast the league’s best defense, holding opponents to 103.5 points per game. Wagner’s 24.4 points and 5.7 assists per game have been instrumental in Orlando’s success, while Jalen Suggs and Goga Bitadze anchor their defensive efforts. However, their inconsistent scoring output, ranked 27th in the league, could prove to be a challenge against the Knicks’ well-rounded roster.

The Knicks’ depth and offensive firepower will help them overcome the Magic’s strong defense.

Prediction: Knicks def. Magic 108-97

Indiana Pacers At Boston Celtics – 7:30 PM EST

Pacers Current Record: 15-16

Celtics Current Record: 22-8

Pacers Injuries: Obi Toppin – Day To Day (Ankle), Aaron Nesmith – Out (Ankle), Isaiah Jackson – Out (Achilles), James Wiseman – Out (Achilles)

Celtics Injuries: Jrue Holiday – Day To Day (Shoulder), Kristaps Porzingis – Day To Day (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Pacers Lead 3-2

The Indiana Pacers travel to TD Garden to face the Boston Celtics in a matchup featuring teams on contrasting trajectories. The Celtics, sitting at 22-8, are coming off back-to-back losses for the first time this season, including a narrow 118-114 defeat to the Philadelphia 76ers on Christmas Day. 

Despite the slump, Boston remains a dominant force in the East, led by Jayson Tatum’s stellar production of 29 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. Jaylen Brown complements him with 23.8 points and steady defensive play.

The Pacers, at 15-16, have shown resilience, recently stringing together a five-game winning streak before falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder 120-114. Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton lead the charge for Indiana, with Siakam contributing 20.1 points and 7 rebounds, and Haliburton adding 8.8 assists per game. However, the Pacers’ defense, ranked 22nd in the league, remains a concern, especially against a high-powered Celtics offense.

While Indiana has been strong on the road recently, Boston’s depth and desire to end their skid should give them the edge at home.

Prediction: Celtics def. Pacers 118-110

San Antonio Spurs At Brooklyn Nets – 7:30 PM EST

Spurs Current Record: 15-15

Nets Current Record: 12-18

Spurs Current Record: N/A

Nets Injuries: Ben Simmons – Day To Day, Dorian Finney-Smith – Out (Calf), Ziarie Williams – Out (Knee), Cam Thomas – Out (Hamstring), Trendon Watford – Out (Hamstring), Bojan Bogdanovic – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Spurs Lead 3-2

The San Antonio Spurs face off against the Brooklyn Nets in an intriguing matchup at Barclays Center. The Spurs are looking to rebound after consecutive losses, while the Nets aim to end a three-game home losing streak. Both teams enter with contrasting narratives: San Antonio boasts the rising dominance of Victor Wembanyama, who recently put up an impressive 42 points and 18 rebounds, while the Nets grapple with key injuries and inconsistency.

San Antonio’s edge lies in their interior strength, spearheaded by Wembanyama’s scoring and defensive impact. Ranked 11th in rebounding, the Spurs will look to control the boards and exploit Brooklyn’s league-worst rebounding and defensive metrics. On the other hand, Brooklyn relies on Cameron Johnson, who has been a consistent scoring option despite the team’s struggles. Nic Claxton’s presence in the paint could be pivotal in slowing Wembanyama.

Brooklyn’s fatigue from a back-to-back and their defensive vulnerabilities make this an uphill battle against a Spurs team hungry to regain momentum.

Prediction: Spurs def. Nets 119-110

Minnesota Timberwolves At Houston Rockets – 8:00 PM EST

Wolves Current Record: 15-14

Rockets Current Record: 21-9

Wolves Injuries: Daishen Nix – Out (Ankle), Luka Garza – Out (Ankle), Joe Ingles – Out (Calf)

Rockets Injuries: Tari Eason – Out (Leg), Dillon Brooks – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 3-2

The Minnesota Timberwolves visit the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center for a Western Conference clash. The Rockets are second in the conference and have excelled at home, losing just once in 11 games. The Timberwolves are looking to build momentum after a crucial win against Dallas, snapping a three-game skid.

Houston’s success has been fueled by Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun. Green leads with 19.1 points per game, while Sengun anchors the paint, averaging a double-double with 18.6 points and 10.4 rebounds. Despite playing the second game of a back-to-back, the Rockets’ defensive tenacity, ranking third-best in the league, will challenge Minnesota’s offense.

The Timberwolves rely on Anthony Edwards, who is averaging 25.3 points, and Julius Randle, providing consistent scoring and rebounding. Minnesota’s recent defensive performances have been stellar, holding opponents to 106.9 points per game, fourth-best in the league. Their ability to stifle Houston’s offense will be crucial in this matchup.

Both teams are among the league’s top defensive units, suggesting a low-scoring, hard-fought contest. While the Rockets are favorites at home, the Timberwolves rested legs and disciplined defense could keep this game competitive.

Prediction: Rockets def. Wolves 108-103

Memphis Grizzlies At New Orleans Pelicans – 8:00 PM EST

Grizzlies Current Record: 21-10

Pelicans Current Record: 5-26

Grizzlies Injuries: Santi Aldama – Day To Day (Ankle), Jay Huff – Out (Ankle), Marcus Smart – Out (Finger), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Ankle), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot)

Pelicans Injuries: Karlo Matkovic – Out (Back), Jose Alvarado – Out (Hamstring), Brandon Ingram – Out (Ankle), Zion Williamson – Out (Hamstring)

Last 5 Meetings: Grizzlies Lead 3-2

The Memphis Grizzlies travel to New Orleans to take on the Pelicans in a Western Conference showdown at the Smoothie King Center. Memphis is one of the hottest teams in the league, currently sitting third in the conference standings. They bring the league’s top offense, averaging an impressive 122.7 points per game. Led by Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies have a fast-paced and dynamic attack that will test the Pelicans’ struggling defense.

The Pelicans have had a disappointing season, plagued by injuries to key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. They have the league’s worst offense, averaging just 105.7 points per game, and their defense ranks near the bottom as well, allowing 117.2 points per contest. Despite their struggles, the Pelicans are hoping for standout performances from Dejounte Murray and CJ McCollum to keep the game competitive.

Memphis’ high-powered offense and depth give them a significant edge. Expect the Grizzlies to control the pace, dominate the paint, and take advantage of New Orleans’ defensive lapses.

Prediction: Grizzlies def. Pelicans 128-110

Cleveland Cavaliers At Denver Nuggets – 9:00 PM EST

Cavaliers Current Record: 26-4

Nuggets Current Record: 16-12

Cavaliers Injuries: Dean Wade – Day To Day (Knee) Issac Okoro – Out (Shoulder)

Nuggets Injuries: Jamal Murray – Day To Day (Ankle), Aaron Gordon – Out (Calf), Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Nuggets Lead 3-2

The Cleveland Cavaliers, holding the best record in the NBA, face the Denver Nuggets in the second meeting of their season series. Cleveland won the first matchup handily, 126-114, behind their elite defense and sharpshooting. The Cavaliers are in the midst of a five-game winning streak, continuing to solidify their status as Eastern Conference favorites.

Donovan Mitchell leads Cleveland’s dynamic offense, complemented by Darius Garland and the frontcourt dominance of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. With a league-best three-point shooting unit averaging 16.1 threes per game, Cleveland has showcased consistent scoring and defensive prowess.

Denver, led by three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, remains a strong force in the Western Conference. Jokic, averaging a near triple-double, is the centerpiece of a team looking to find consistency. However, the Nuggets are coming off a loss to the Suns and have struggled against elite teams. Denver’s ability to compete will depend on support from Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray, especially against Cleveland’s imposing interior defense.

Expect a competitive battle, but Cleveland’s balanced roster and current momentum may prove too much for Denver.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Nuggets 120-114

Dallas Mavericks At Phoenix Suns – 9:00 PM EST

Mavericks Current Record: 19-11

Suns Current Record: 15-14

Mavericks Injuries: Dereck Lively II – Day To Day (Hip), Luka Doncic – Out (Calf), Dante Exum – Out (Wrist)

Suns Injuries: Collin Gillespie – Out (Ankle), Bol Bol – Out (Knee), Grayson Allen – Out (Concussion), Devin Booker – Out (Groin)

Last 5 Meetings: Suns Lead 3-2

The Phoenix Suns host the Dallas Mavericks at the Footprint Center in what promises to be a closely contested Western Conference matchup. The Suns are looking to build on their Christmas Day win against the Denver Nuggets, a game where Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal combined for 54 points. The Mavericks, meanwhile, aim to rebound from a tough loss to the Timberwolves, where they struggled to maintain offensive consistency.

For Phoenix, Kevin Durant remains the focal point of their offense, averaging over 19 points per game in the last 10 outings. With Devin Booker sidelined, Durant and Bradley Beal will need to lead the way. The Suns’ bench production and defensive intensity will also be critical in countering Dallas’ offensive firepower.

Dallas faces significant challenges with Luka Doncic’s status uncertain due to a calf injury. Kyrie Irving, coming off a strong 39-point performance against Minnesota, will have to carry much of the offensive load. The Mavericks’ perimeter shooting, highlighted by Klay Thompson, will be key in breaking through Phoenix’s defense.

Despite the Mavericks’ strong season, Luka Doncic’s absence could tilt the game in Phoenix’s favor. The Suns’ home-court advantage and Kevin Durant’s consistent scoring may prove decisive.

Prediction: Suns def. Mavericks 112-107

Golden State Warriors At Los Angeles Clippers – 10:00 PM EST

Warriors Current Record: 15-14

Clippers Current Record: 17-13

Warriors Injuries: Draymond Green – Day To Day (Back), Stephen Curry – Out (Knee), Gary Payton II – Out (Calf)

Clippers Injuries: Terance Mann – Out (Finger), Kobe Brown – Out (Back), Kawhi Leonard – Out (Knee), P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 5-0

The Los Angeles Clippers welcome the Golden State Warriors to the Intuit Dome for an intriguing Western Conference showdown. The Clippers have been in solid form, winning three of their last four games, while the Warriors are struggling with consistency, having lost seven of their last ten.

The Clippers are coming off a 114-110 road victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. Norman Powell was exceptional, dropping 29 points, while James Harden added 21 points. Ivica Zubac anchored the defense with 20 points and 19 rebounds. The Clippers have been stout defensively this season, ranking fifth in points allowed at 107.6 PPG, which has been key to their recent success.

The Warriors, on the other hand, suffered a narrow 115-113 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Christmas Day, despite Stephen Curry’s heroic 38-point effort. However, their defense continues to be a concern, allowing 113.2 PPG over their last ten games. With Curry leading the charge offensively and Andrew Wiggins providing secondary scoring, the Warriors need more consistency from their supporting cast to contend with the Clippers’ balanced attack.

The Clippers’ defense and home-court advantage give them a slight edge in this matchup. The Warriors will need a vintage performance from Stephen Curry to overcome their defensive struggles, but the Clippers’ recent form suggests they will secure a close victory.

Prediction: Clippers def. Warriors 110-106