NBA Daily Picks For December 3, 2024: Warriors Face Tough Nuggets Test To Snap Losing Streak

After a balanced 2-2 outing last night, our season record stands at 110-66, with an accuracy rate of 62.5%. Tonight, we’re diving into a massive 11-game NBA Cup slate, featuring the final group stage games before the knockout rounds begin. Stakes are high, and teams will be bringing their best to advance.

The action kicks off with the Washington Wizards taking on the Cleveland Cavaliers while the Milwaukee Bucks face the Detroit Pistons, a game that could showcase contrasting levels of experience and execution. The Philadelphia 76ers clash with the Charlotte Hornets, followed by the Orlando Magic meeting the New York Knicks in a battle of youth and grit.

Elsewhere, the Indiana Pacers take on the Toronto Raptors in a fast-paced contest, while the Utah Jazz face the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Memphis Grizzlies go head-to-head with the Dallas Mavericks while the San Antonio Spurs challenge the Phoenix Suns in a Western Conference duel.

The night continues with the Golden State Warriors visiting the Denver Nuggets in what promises to be a marquee matchup of elite teams. The Houston Rockets face the Sacramento Kings and the Portland Trail Blazers close the slate against the Los Angeles Clippers in a game where both sides will seek consistency.

Let’s break down each game and aim to deliver another strong night of predictions.

Washington Wizards At Cleveland Cavaliers – 7:00 PM EST

Wizards Current Record: 2-16

Cavaliers Current Record: 18-3

Wizards Injuries: Tristan Vukcevic – Out (Knee), Kyle Kuzma – Out (Ribs), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Cavaliers Injuries: Ty Jerome – Day To Day (Illness), Dean Wade – Out (Ankle), Max Strus – Out (Ankle), Emoni Bates – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Cavaliers Lead 5-0

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Washington Wizards face off in their final NBA Cup Group Play game. Both teams have been eliminated from knockout stage contention, with Cleveland holding a 1-2 record in the group and Washington struggling at 0-3. However, this game could still set the tone for their regular season campaigns.

The Cavaliers, fresh off a dominant win against the Boston Celtics, boast the NBA’s best record and are led by Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. Their offense has been elite, ranking among the top-scoring teams in the league. Cleveland has also shown strong rebounding, with Evan Mobley expected to dominate against a struggling Wizards frontcourt.

Meanwhile, the Wizards continue their freefall, having lost 14 straight games. Without Kyle Kuzma, they’ll rely on Jordan Poole and Bilal Coulibaly to spark the offense. However, defensive lapses and a high turnover rate make it difficult for Washington to compete against top-tier opponents like Cleveland.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Wizards 121-108

Milwaukee Bucks At Detroit Pistons – 7:00 PM EST

Bucks Current Record: 10-9

Pistons Current Record: 9-13

Bucks Injuries: Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Knee), MarJon Beauchamp – Day To Day (Hamstring), Taurean Prince – Day To Day (Quad), Khris Middleton – Out (Ankle)

Pistons Injuries: Bobi Klintman – Out (Calf)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 5-0

The Milwaukee Bucks face the Detroit Pistons in a pivotal NBA Cup group-stage clash, with both teams sitting at 3-0 in Group B. The winner of this matchup secures the top spot in the group and advances to the knockout stage, while the loser will compete for a wild card berth.

The Bucks, riding a six-game winning streak, are led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is averaging a dominant 32.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game. Alongside Damian Lillard, Milwaukee has regained its rhythm offensively, shooting an impressive 48.7% from the field in recent games. Despite a 2-6 road record, the Bucks’ improved defensive focus has been a key factor in their resurgence.

The Pistons, fueled by Cade Cunningham’s stellar play, have exceeded expectations in group play. Cunningham, averaging 23.5 points and 9 assists, will be pivotal as Detroit seeks to counter Milwaukee’s firepower. However, with inconsistencies on both ends, the Pistons face an uphill battle against the Bucks’ high-powered offense.

Prediction: Bucks def. Pistons 116-108

Philadelphia 76ers At Charlotte Hornets – 7:00 PM EST

Sixers Current Record: 6-14

Hornets Current Record: 4-14

Sixers Injuries: Reggie Jackson – Day To Day (Knee), Caleb Martin – Day To Day (Back), Kyle Lowry – Out (Hip), Joel Embiid – Out (Knee), Andre Drummond – Out (Ankle)

Hornets Injuries: Grant Williams – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 5-0

The Philadelphia 76ers visit the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday in their final group-stage game of the NBA Cup, with both teams out of the cup. Both teams are looking to end rough starts to the season, with the 76ers sitting at 4-14 and the Hornets at 6-14. Philadelphia comes into this matchup with momentum following a recent win and hopes to build their first win streak of the season.

Philadelphia is led by Tyrese Maxey, who has been in excellent form, averaging 25.9 points per game. However, injuries to key players, including Joel Embiid and Andre Drummond, continue to test their depth. The Hornets, meanwhile, will likely be without their star guard LaMelo Ball, placing additional pressure on Brandon Miller, who has been on an offensive surge with six consecutive games scoring at least 20 points.

While Philadelphia’s defense has shown potential, Charlotte’s lack of consistency on both ends may give the 76ers the edge in this matchup.

Prediction: Sixers def. Hornets 112-105

Orlando Magic At New York Knicks – 7:30 PM EST

Magic Current Record: 15-7

Knicks Current Record: 12-8

Magic Injuries: Gary Harris – Out (Hamstring), Paolo Banchero – Out (Oblique)

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

Last 5 Meetings: Magic Lead 4-1

The Orlando Magic and New York Knicks face off at Madison Square Garden in a pivotal NBA Cup Group A matchup on Tuesday. Both teams boast a 3-0 record in group play, but Orlando holds a significant point differential advantage (+60 to +15). The Magic are riding a six-game winning streak, while the Knicks recently defeated the New Orleans Pelicans in dominant fashion.

Orlando’s success has been fueled by Franz Wagner, who is averaging 26.3 points, 8.0 assists, and 6.0 rebounds during the streak. Their defense has been exceptional, allowing the fewest points per game in the NBA this season. Even without Paolo Banchero, Orlando’s team effort has carried them to a 15-7 record.

New York, led by Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson, has shown flashes of brilliance but struggles with defensive consistency. Towns has posted double-doubles in nine consecutive games, and Brunson’s offensive leadership has been pivotal.

This matchup could come down to defense and pace, where Orlando has the edge. The Magic’s discipline and ability to control the tempo should keep this game close.

Prediction: Magic de. Knicks 108-105

Indiana Pacers At Toronto Raptors – 7:30 PM EST

Pacers Current Record: 9-12

Raptors Current Record: 6-15

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

Raptors Injuries: Gradey Dick – Out (Calf), Kelly Olynyk – Out (Back), Immanuel Quickley – Out (Elbow), Bruce Brown – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Raptors Lead 3-2

The Indiana Pacers and Toronto Raptors clash on Tuesday in a matchup that holds no bearing on NBA Cup knockout stage contention. Both teams are 0-3 in group play, but the Raptors enter this contest with momentum after a surprising win against the Miami Heat. Meanwhile, the Pacers continue their road struggles, having lost six consecutive games away from home.

The Pacers rely heavily on Tyrese Haliburton, but his road performances have been underwhelming, averaging just 11.9 points and shooting 22.6% from beyond the arc. The potential return of Andrew Nembhard could boost Indiana’s defense, but the team still struggles to stop opponents, ranking 27th in points allowed per game.

Toronto, led by R.J. Barrett and Scottie Barnes, has found more success at home, where they hold a 5-4 record. Barrett is coming off back-to-back strong performances and has consistently been a bright spot for the Raptors’ offense.

This matchup will likely come down to whether Indiana’s offense can offset its defensive woes or if Toronto’s balanced effort at home will prevail.

Prediction: Pacers def. Raptors 121-110

Utah Jazz At Oklahoma City Thunder – 8:00 PM EST

Jazz Current Record: 4-16

Thunder Current Record: 15-5

Jazz Injuries: Kyle Filipowski – Out (Leg), Jordan Clarkson – Out (Foot), Taylor Hendricks – Out (Leg)

Thunder Injuries: Jaylin Williams – Out (Hamstring), Alex Caruso – Out (Hip), Alex Ducas – Out (Hip), Ousmane Dieng – Out (Finger), Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Nikola Topic – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 4-1

The Utah Jazz visit the Oklahoma City Thunder in a key NBA Cup matchup, with both teams aiming to solidify their group stage performance. The Jazz are in the midst of a challenging season, struggling with consistency on both ends of the court. They’ve lost four straight games and allowed over 115 points per game during this stretch. Lauri Markkanen remains their primary scoring option, averaging nearly 20 points per game, but Utah’s overall defensive inefficiency has been a significant concern.

On the other side, the Thunder are one of the NBA’s best defensive teams, allowing just 104 points per game while forcing turnovers at the highest rate in the league. Led by the red-hot Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging 33.8 points over his last 10 games, Oklahoma City looks to bounce back from a recent loss and continue their dominant form at home. Their ability to lock down opponents and generate offense in transition gives them a clear edge.

Prediction: Thunder def. Jazz 118-103

Memphis Grizzlies At Dallas Mavericks – 8:30 PM EST

Grizzlies Current Record: 14-7

Mavericks Current Record: 13-8

Grizzlies Injuries: Zach Edy – Out (Ankle), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Ankle), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot)

Mavericks Injuries: Dereck Lively II – Day To Day (Knee), Klay Thompson – Out (Foot), Naji Marshall – Out (Illness), Dante Exum – Out (Wrist)

Last 5 Meetings: Grizzlies Lead 3-2

The Memphis Grizzlies, riding a six-game winning streak, visit the Dallas Mavericks, who are on a four-game winning streak of their own, in a critical NBA Cup Group C matchup. Both teams are among the league’s top offenses, setting the stage for a high-scoring showdown. The Grizzlies have been red-hot offensively, averaging 128.2 points per game during their streak, with Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. leading the charge. Morant’s dynamic playmaking and Jackson’s two-way dominance have been key to Memphis’s recent success.

Meanwhile, the Mavericks, fueled by Luka Dončić’s brilliance and Kyrie Irving’s scoring, boast the eighth-best offense in the NBA, averaging 117.9 points per game. With Dončić back in the lineup, Dallas has regained its rhythm, scoring over 120 points in three of their last four games. Their ability to control the tempo and limit turnovers will be critical against a Grizzlies team that thrives in transition.

This game carries significant stakes for NBA Cup advancement, making it a must-watch clash between two surging Western Conference teams.

Prediction: Mavericks def. Grizzlies 126-121

San Antonio Spurs At Phoenix Suns – 9:00 PM EST

Spurs Current Record: 11-8

Suns Current Record: 11-9

Spurs Injuries: Tre Jones – Out (Shoulder), Jeremy Sochan – Out (Thumb)

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

Last 5 Meetings: Spurs Lead 3-2

The San Antonio Spurs and Phoenix Suns face off in a high-stakes NBA Cup Group Play matchup at the Footprint Center. The Spurs are riding a hot streak, winning five of their last six games, and are led by Victor Wembanyama, who is coming off a stellar triple-double against the Sacramento Kings. 

With their playoff hopes alive, the Spurs are looking to carry their momentum into this crucial game. However, they will need to overcome the challenge of playing on the road and the absence of key playmaker Tre Jones.

The Suns, on the other hand, are getting back on track after a rough stretch, winning two of their last three games. Kevin Durant and Devin Booker continue to lead the charge, combining for efficient scoring and playmaking. With Jusuf Nurkic sidelined, the Suns’ defense in the paint may be tested by Wembanyama. 

Phoenix has been dominant when playing with a rest advantage, and they’ll look to leverage their depth and home-court advantage in this pivotal game.

Prediction: Suns def. Spurs 121-110

Golden State Warriors At Denver Nuggets – 10:00 PM EST

Warriors Current Record: 12-7

Nuggets Current Record: 10-8

Warriors Injuries: Stephen Curry – Day To Day (Knee), Draymond Green – Day To Day (Calf), De’Anthony Melton – Out (ACL)

Nuggets Injuries: Peyton Watson – Day To Day (Groin), Aaron Gordon – Day To Day (Calf), Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Nuggets Lead 5-0

The Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets square off in a key NBA Cup Group Play matchup. The Warriors have already clinched Group C, but their recent struggles, including a four-game losing streak, make this an opportunity to regain momentum. Stephen Curry leads Golden State with his consistent shooting and playmaking, while Andrew Wiggins has been a reliable secondary scorer.

For the Nuggets, this game is crucial for keeping their slim NBA Cup hopes alive. Nikola Jokic, averaging a triple-double this season, remains the centerpiece of Denver’s attack, supported by Michael Porter Jr.’s scoring and three-point shooting. The Nuggets are looking to bounce back after a narrow loss to the Clippers and will rely on their home-court advantage.

While the Warriors have already secured advancement, expect the Nuggets to fight hard for a win, especially with their playoff hopes hanging in the balance.

Prediction: Warriors def. Nuggets 118-113

Houston Rockets At Sacramento Kings – 10:00 PM EST

Rockets Current Record: 15-6

Kings Current Record: 9-12

Rockets Injuries: N/A

Kings Injuries: Kevin Huerter – Day To Day (Ankle), Trey Lyles – Out (Calf)

Last 5 Meetings: Rockets Lead 3-2

The Houston Rockets face the Sacramento Kings in a pivotal NBA Cup matchup on Tuesday night. Houston, riding a three-game winning streak, has already clinched West Group A, showcasing their rapid improvement this season with a 15-6 record. Alperen Şengün anchors the team with 18.8 points and 10.9 rebounds per game, while Jalen Green’s offensive bursts add firepower. The Rockets’ second-ranked defense allows just 106.3 points per game, making them a tough opponent for any team.

In contrast, the Sacramento Kings have struggled with consistency, falling to a 9-12 record and going winless in NBA Cup play. De’Aaron Fox remains their standout performer, averaging 27.5 points and nearly six assists per game. However, Sacramento’s defensive woes and home struggles (2-8-1 against the spread) leave them vulnerable. Despite adding DeMar DeRozan in the offseason, the Kings have yet to find their rhythm, particularly on their home court.

Expect Houston’s disciplined defense and efficient offensive execution to control the game. The Kings will need a strong performance from Fox and DeRozan to keep pace, but the Rockets’ current form and balance make them favorites.

Prediction: Rockets def. Kings 118-110

Portland Trail Blazers At Los Angeles Clippers – 10:30 PM EST

Blazers Current Record: 8-13

Clippers Current Record: 13-9

Blazers Injuries: Scoot Henderson – Day To Day (Quad), Robert Williams III – Out (Concussion), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle), Donovan Clingan – Out (Knee)

Clippers Injuries: Kobe Brown – Out (Back), Kevin Porter Jr. – Out (Ankle), Kawhi Leonard – Out (Knee), P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 4-1

The Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Clippers face off in a key NBA Cup Group Play matchup. While the Clippers have been eliminated from knockout stage contention, the Trail Blazers are clinging to slim hopes and must deliver a decisive performance to stay in the wild-card race.

Portland has battled injuries to key players like Robert Williams III and Matisse Thybulle, forcing them to rely heavily on Deandre Ayton and Anfernee Simons. Ayton, averaging 14.7 points and 12 rebounds per game, has stepped up recently, with three straight games of 30+ minutes and efficient scoring. However, Portland’s struggles on both ends (27th in net rating and 27th in offensive rating) have limited their ceiling.

Meanwhile, the Clippers are solid at home, boasting a top-four defensive rating. Norman Powell’s return adds a major offensive boost, as he’s averaging 23.6 points on blistering 49.6% shooting from deep. Even without Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers’ depth—led by Powell and James Harden—gives them an advantage over Portland’s depleted roster.

Expect the Clippers’ defense and balanced offense to control this game, stifling Portland’s inconsistent attack.

Prediction: Clippers def. Trail Blazers 115- 101