NBA Daily Picks For December 30th, 2024: Cavaliers Look To Dominate Warriors

After a near-perfect 8-1 performance in our last round of predictions, our season record now stands at 196-110, with an improved accuracy rate of 64.0%. Tonight, we’re diving into a 6-game slate featuring some exciting matchups as teams look to solidify their standings.

The night tips off with the New York Knicks, who are riding a hot streak and look to continue their winning ways against the Washington Wizards, a team that has struggled mightily throughout the season. In another game, the Chicago Bulls take on the Charlotte Hornets in what should be a competitive battle between two underperforming teams. 

The Los Angeles Clippers face the struggling and injury-plagued New Orleans Pelicans. Out West, the Denver Nuggets meet the Utah Jazz in a matchup that heavily favors Denver. 

In a marquee matchup, the Cleveland Cavaliers face their old foes, the Golden State Warriors. Finally, the Philadelphia 76ers face the Portland Trail Blazers, who are in full rebuild mode and have struggled to stay competitive. The evening concludes with the Dallas Mavericks taking on the Sacramento Kings in what promises to be a high-octane matchup.

Let’s dive into these games and aim for another standout night in predictions.

New York Knicks At Washington Wizards – 7:00 PM EST

Knicks Current Record: 22-10

Wizards Current Record: 5-24

Knicks Injuries: Jalen Brunson – Day To Day (Calf), Mitchell Robinson – Out (Foot), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)

Wizards Injuries: Anthony Gill – Day To Day (Nose), Jordan Poole – Day To Day (Hip), Marvin Bagley III – Out (Knee), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 5-0

The New York Knicks head to the nation’s capital to face the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena. The Knicks, currently on a six-game road winning streak, are in stellar form and look to continue their dominance against a struggling Wizards team.

The Knicks have been one of the most balanced teams in the league, ranking seventh in points scored per game (117.0) and eighth in points allowed (109.3). Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns lead the charge, combining for over 50 points per game, while OG Anunoby and Towns anchor a defense that ranks second in rebounds allowed. The Knicks’ efficient shooting from beyond the arc (39.4%) will be a significant advantage against the Wizards’ porous defense.

Meanwhile, Washington’s season has been plagued by inconsistency and defensive woes. The Wizards allow a league-worst 122.3 points per game and rank near the bottom in both field goal and three-point percentage. With Jordan Poole and Kyle Kuzma questionable, Washington’s offense might struggle further, relying heavily on Jonas Valanciunas and its supporting cast.

The Knicks’ superior depth and form should see them comfortably securing the win. Expect New York to dominate both ends of the court and extend their road win streak.

Prediction: Knicks def. Wizards 120-107

Chicago Bulls At Charlotte Hornets – 7:00 PM EST

Bulls Current Record: 14-18

Hornets Current Record: 7-24

Bulls Injuries: Jalen Smith – Day To Day (Ankle), Zach LaVine – Day To Day (Toe), Josh Giddey – Day To Day (Ankle), Ayo Dosunmu – Day To Day (Calf)

Hornets Injuries: N/A

Last 5 Meetings: Bulls Lead 5-0

The Chicago Bulls travel to face the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center in a clash where both teams aim to improve upon recent struggles. The Bulls, coming off a narrow victory against the Bucks, are favored by 5 points, while the Hornets hope to end their seven-game losing streak.

The Bulls have been led by consistent performances from Nikola Vucevic, who is averaging 22 points and 11 rebounds, and Coby White, providing scoring and playmaking. Zach LaVine adds offensive firepower, and Josh Giddey’s all-around contributions have been impactful. Chicago’s efficient offense, averaging 115.2 points over their last five games, contrasts sharply with Charlotte’s defensive struggles, where they allow 121.8 points per game (30th in the NBA).

The Hornets are dealing with offensive inefficiencies, shooting only 44.2% from the field and 32.9% from beyond the arc. Despite standout performances from Miles Bridges and Mark Williams, Charlotte’s inability to protect the ball and their defensive lapses have proven costly.

Chicago’s superior offensive depth and Charlotte’s defensive vulnerabilities suggest an advantage for the visiting Bulls. Expect the Hornets to compete but fall short against a Bulls team aiming to climb in the standings.

Prediction: Bulls def. Hornets 116-106

Los Angeles Clippers At New Orleans Pelicans – 8:00 PM EST

Clippers Current Record: 18-13

Pelicans Current Record: 5-27

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

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

Last 5 Meetings: Pelicans Lead 4-1

The Los Angeles Clippers head to the Smoothie King Center on Monday to take on the New Orleans Pelicans. The Clippers are finding their rhythm as the season progresses, thanks to a strong defensive identity and key contributions.

Their balanced approach on both ends of the floor, combined with depth off the bench, makes them a formidable opponent. Los Angeles is also among the league’s better teams at forcing turnovers and limiting second-chance opportunities.

The Pelicans, on the other hand, are mired in a nine-game losing streak and sit near the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Despite a solid effort from Brandon Ingram, New Orleans has struggled mightily with consistency on both ends of the court. Their inability to generate consistent offense, particularly from beyond the arc, has been a major issue. Defensively, their struggles to contain opposing offenses have led to frequent lopsided losses.

The Clippers’ disciplined defense and balanced offense should prove too much for the Pelicans. Expect Los Angeles to control the game’s tempo and exploit New Orleans’ defensive weaknesses.

Prediction: Clippers def. Pelicans 121-110

Denver Nuggets At Utah Jazz – 9:00 PM EST

Nuggets Current Record: 17-13

Jazz Current Record: 7-23

Nuggets Injuries: Aaron Gordon – Out (Calf), Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Jazz Injuries: John Collins – Day To Day, Keyonte George – Out (Ankle), Taylor Hendricks – Out (Leg)

Last 5 Meetings: Nuggets Lead 4-1

The Utah Jazz welcome the Denver Nuggets to the Delta Center on Tuesday for what promises to be a challenging matchup for the home team. The Jazz have struggled to find consistency this season, despite the impressive performances of Lauri Markkanen and John Collins. 

While Utah’s offense has shown flashes of potential, turnovers and defensive lapses have often undermined their efforts, particularly against stronger opponents. They’ll need to play near-flawless basketball to keep pace with the Nuggets.

The Nuggets, led by Nikola Jokic, have been one of the league’s most efficient offensive teams, combining strong perimeter shooting with dominant interior play. Jokic, a triple-double threat every night, is complemented by Jamal Murray’s scoring and playmaking, as well as Michael Porter Jr.’s perimeter shooting. Denver’s defense, while not elite, has been good enough to stifle less organized offenses.

While the Jazz will rely on Markkanen and Walker Kessler to challenge Denver inside, the Nuggets’ depth and superior execution on both ends should be the deciding factors.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Jazz 122-109

Cleveland Cavaliers At Golden State Warriors – 10:00 PM EST

Cavaliers Current Record: 27-4

Warriors Current Record: 16-15

Cavaliers Injuries: Issac Okoro – Out (Shoulder)

Warriors Injuries: Moses Moody – Day To Day (Knee), Brandin Podziemski – Out (Abdomen), Gary Payton II – Out (Calf)

Last 5 Meetings: Cavaliers Lead 3-2

The Cleveland Cavaliers head to the Chase Center to take on the Golden State Warriors in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Cavaliers are riding a six-game winning streak and hold the league’s best record. 

Led by Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Darius Garland, Cleveland’s high-octane offense and disciplined defense have consistently overpowered opponents. The Cavaliers are also coming off a dominant 149-135 victory over the Denver Nuggets, showcasing their ability to control games against formidable teams.

On the other hand, the Warriors have struggled to maintain consistency this season. Despite strong performances from Stephen Curry and rising star Jonathan Kuminga, Golden State has dropped six of their last seven games. However, their recent victory against the Phoenix Suns highlighted their potential to rally in crunch moments, thanks to their defensive tenacity and clutch scoring.

While Golden State has a home-court advantage, Cleveland’s balanced attack and defensive discipline give them a clear edge. Expect the Cavaliers to exploit the Warriors’ defensive lapses and continue their dominant form.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Warriors 124-112

Philadelphia 76ers At Portland Trail Blazers – 10:00 PM EST 

Sixers Current Record: 12-17

Blazers Current Record: 11-20

Sixers Injuries: Joel Embiid – Day To Day (Foot), Andre Drummond – Day To Day (Toe), Eric Gordon – Day To Day (Mouth), KJ Martin – Out (Foot), Jared McCain – Out (Lateral meniscus)

Blazers Injuries: Robert Willaims III – Out (Ankle), Jerami Grant – Day To Day (Facial contusion), Toumani Camara – Day To Day (Foot), Dalano Banton – Day To Day (Hip), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 3-2

The Portland Trail Blazers will host the Philadelphia 76ers at Moda Center, aiming to build on their recent two-game winning streak. The Blazers, currently sitting 13th in the Western Conference, have struggled with consistency throughout the season. 

Despite their challenges, players like Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe have provided scoring sparks, with Deandre Ayton anchoring the paint. However, Portland’s defensive inefficiencies and inconsistent three-point shooting remain significant obstacles.

On the other hand, the 76ers have shown signs of improvement, winning their last three games, including an impressive victory over the Boston Celtics. Philadelphia’s resurgence has been fueled by Tyrese Maxey, who is averaging 26 points per game, and the return of Joel Embiid, despite his limited appearances this season. 

Defensively, the 76ers have been solid, holding opponents to 110.6 points per game, though injuries to key players like Paul George and Andre Drummond may impact their performance.

Portland’s strong home presence could challenge Philadelphia, but the 76ers’ defensive discipline and recent momentum give them the edge in this matchup.

Prediction: Sixers def. Blazers 125-116

Dallas Mavericks At Sacramento Kings – 10:00 PM EST

Mavericks Current Record: 20-12

Kings Current Record: 13-19

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

Kings Injuries: Jae Crowder – Day To Day (Back)

Last 5 Meetings: Mavericks Lead 3-2

The Sacramento Kings host the Dallas Mavericks in what promises to be an intriguing Western Conference showdown at the Golden 1 Center. The Kings are looking to break their six-game losing streak. 

Led by De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento has struggled defensively, conceding 114.2 points per game. Fox, averaging 26.2 points and 6.1 assists per game, will be pivotal in orchestrating the Kings’ high-paced offense, while Sabonis’ rebounding and playmaking will be essential in exploiting Dallas’ shorthanded lineup.

The Mavericks will be without Luka Doncic and Dereck Lively II due to injuries. Kyrie Irving, coming off a 46-point performance, will carry the offensive load alongside Klay Thompson. Dallas averages 117.7 points per game, ranking among the league’s best offensively, and will rely on their three-point shooting and defensive rebounding to control the game. However, their depleted roster may struggle to maintain consistency throughout the matchup.

Sacramento’s home-court advantage and the absence of Doncic tilt the scales in their favor. Expect the Kings to use their transition game and Sabonis’ versatility to outpace the Mavericks in a close contest.

Prediction: Kings def. Mavericks 118-114