NBA Daily Picks For January 15th, 2025: Heat Face Lakers In Battle Of Two Struggling Teams

After a tough 3-4 outing in last night’s predictions, our season record now stands at 251-133, with an accuracy rate of 65.3%. Tonight, we have a massive 11-game slate, featuring critical matchups across the league. Let’s dive into each game and aim to bounce back strong.

The night begins with the New York Knicks taking on the struggling Philadelphia 76ers. The Knicks, riding a solid run of form, look to capitalize on the Sixers’ recent struggles.

The Boston Celtics face the Toronto Raptors, with Boston heavily favored to dominate. The Atlanta Hawks aim to maintain their momentum against the Chicago Bulls. 

The Orlando Magic face the Milwaukee Bucks in what promises to be a physical contest. The Memphis Grizzlies meet the San Antonio Spurs in a battle between two teams struggling for wins. 

The Dallas Mavericks face the New Orleans Pelicans in a Western Conference battle. The Houston Rockets meet the Denver Nuggets, with the reigning MVP Nikola Jokic looking to dominate against the Rockets’ young core. 

The Charlotte Hornets take on the Utah Jazz, where both teams look to gain traction in a difficult season. The Golden State Warriors face the Minnesota Timberwolves in what promises to be a fast-paced and physical contest. 

The Miami Heat take on the Los Angeles Lakers, with both teams looking to solidify their positions in the standings. Finally, the Brooklyn Nets face the Los Angeles Clippers to close out the night. 

Let’s aim for a strong performance tonight and regain our momentum with this exciting slate.

New York Knicks At Philadelphia 76ers – 7:00 PM EST

Knicks Current Record: 26-15

Sixers Current Record: 15-23

Knicks Injuries: Jericho Sims – Day To Day (Back), Jalen Brunson – Day To Day (Shoulder), Karl-Anthony Towns – Day To Day (Thumb), Mitchell Robinson – Out (Ankle), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)

Sixers Injuries: Paul George – Out (Ankle), Tyrese Maxey – Out (Hand), Caleb Martin – Out (Groin), Andre Drummond – Out (Toe), Joel Embiid – Out (Foot), KJ Martin – Out (Foot), Kyle Lowry – Out (Hip), Jared McCain – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 4-1

The New York Knicks visit the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center in a rematch of last year’s playoff series. The Knicks secured a convincing 12-point win in their first matchup this season and aim to bounce back after recent struggles, including a tough home loss to the Detroit Pistons. Meanwhile, the 76ers continue to grapple with injuries, with Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George all questionable after missing their last game against Oklahoma City.

New York’s Josh Hart has been a key contributor, averaging 12.6 rebounds over the past 12 games, which could be vital against a Philadelphia squad ranked last in rebounding percentage. On the other hand, Tyrese Maxey, should he play, will look to exploit a Knicks defense that recently allowed 36 points to Cade Cunningham.

The Knicks boast depth and defensive efficiency but must overcome their January slump. For the 76ers, success hinges on the availability of their stars. If Embiid, Maxey, and George return, Philadelphia could pose a significant challenge, but their inconsistency remains a concern.

Prediction: Knicks def. Sixers 112-102

Boston Celtics At Toronto Raptors – 7:30 PM EST

Celtics Current Record: 28-11

Raptors Current Record: 9-31

Celtics Injuries: N/A

Raptors Injuries: Immanuel Quickley – Out (Groin)

Last 5 Meetings: Celtics Lead 5-0

The Toronto Raptors will host the Boston Celtics at the Scotiabank Arena on January 15, 2025. Toronto comes off a rare victory, narrowly defeating the Warriors, while Boston secured a close win over the Pelicans. Despite recent struggles, the Celtics remain one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams, while the Raptors have endured a season filled with challenges.

For the Raptors, Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett provide glimmers of hope, with Barnes averaging 21.6 points over his last five games. However, the team’s inconsistent offense and porous defense (allowing 123.1 points per game in the last 10 contests) have been major issues. On the other hand, the Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, continue to shine with their balanced play, excelling in rebounding and defensive effort.

Boston’s deep roster, including Kristaps Porzingis’s recent surge, positions them well to dominate this matchup. The Celtics have also won their last 10 meetings against Toronto, emphasizing their superiority in this rivalry.

Expect Boston to control the game on both ends of the floor, securing a comfortable victory.

Prediction: Celtics def. Raptors 120-105

Atlanta Hawks At Chicago Bulls – 8:00 PM EST

Hawks Current Record: 20-19

Bulls Current Record: 18-22

Hawks Injuries: De’Andre Hunter – Out (Foot), Jalen Johnson – Out (Shoulder), Cody Zeller – Out (Personal), Larry Nance Jr. – Out (Hand), Kobe Bufkin – Out (Shoulder)

Bulls Injuries: Ayo Dosunmu – Out (Calf), Adama Sanogo – Out (Knee), Torrey Craig – Out (Leg)

Last 5 Meetings: Bulls Lead 3-2

The Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls face off at the United Center in a key Eastern Conference clash. Both teams are battling for position in the standings, with Atlanta sitting ninth and Chicago tenth. The matchup marks the second game of a back-to-back for both squads, a test of stamina and strategy.

The Hawks have leaned on Trae Young’s scoring and playmaking, with the star averaging 22.5 points and 12.1 assists per game. Jalen Johnson, known for his rebounding and defensive versatility, remains an integral part of Atlanta’s attack, though injuries could hinder their depth. Atlanta has been inconsistent on the road, with a 9-12 record, and their defense—allowing 119.8 points per game—has been a significant weakness.

The Bulls, led by Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, aim to utilize their home-court advantage. LaVine’s scoring ability and Vucevic’s inside presence are complemented by Josh Giddey’s playmaking. Chicago’s defense has shown flashes of effectiveness but struggles to maintain consistency. Their 8-12 home record reflects these challenges, but they have won two of three meetings against Atlanta this season.

This game will likely come down to which team can execute under fatigue. While both have offensive firepower, the Bulls’ slightly better defensive potential and home-court edge may tip the scales.

Prediction: Bulls def. Hawks 118-114

Orlando Magic At Milwaukee Bucks – 8:00 PM EST

Magic Current Record: 23-18

Bucks Current Record: 21-17

Magic Injuries: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – Day To Day (Knee), Goga Btadze – Day To Day (Hip), Jett Howard – Day To Day (Ankle), Jalen Suggs – Out (Back), Gary Harris – Out (Hamstring), Franz Wagner – Out (Oblique), Mortiz Wagner – Out (ACL)

Bucks Injuries: Khris Middleton – Day To Day (Ankles), Gary Trent Jr. – Out (Hip)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 4-1

The Orlando Magic travel to Fiserv Forum to face the Milwaukee Bucks in what promises to be an exciting Eastern Conference clash. The Bucks come into this matchup with strong momentum, having secured a 130-115 victory over the Sacramento Kings in their last outing. 

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with a triple-double, showcasing his ability to dominate on all fronts. Milwaukee’s depth, complemented by Damian Lillard’s scoring and playmaking, makes them a formidable opponent.

The Magic, while resilient, are navigating a challenging stretch. Led by Cole Anthony and Paolo Banchero, they managed a narrow win against the Philadelphia 76ers in their previous game. However, Orlando has struggled with consistency, particularly on offense, averaging just 97.1 points over their last 10 games. Their defense and rebounding, anchored by Goga Bitadze, will need to be at their best to contain Milwaukee’s potent attack.

Milwaukee’s home-court advantage and their ability to dictate tempo through Giannis and Lillard give them the edge in this matchup. Expect the Bucks to leverage their balanced scoring and defensive strength to secure a comfortable win.

Prediction: Bucks def. Magic 113-102

Memphis Grizzlies At San Antonio Spurs – 8:00 PM EST

Grizzlies Current Record: 25-15

Spurs Current Record: 19-19

Grizzlies Injuries: GG Jackson – Day To Day (Foot), Jay Huff – Day To Day (Knee), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Ankle), Cam Spencer – Out (Thumb), Marcus Smart – Out (Finger)

Spurs Injuries: Jeremy Sochan – Out (Back)

Last 5 Meetings: Grizzlies Lead 4-1

The Memphis Grizzlies face off against the San Antonio Spurs at the Frost Bank Center in a key Southwest Division clash. Memphis boasts the league’s highest-scoring offense, averaging 122.9 points per game, powered by Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant. Their fast pace and efficiency in scoring and assists make them a challenging opponent. However, Memphis has struggled defensively, allowing 115.2 points per game, ranking 21st in the league.

The Spurs, led by sensation Victor Wembanyama, enter the game with a balanced attack. Wembanyama is averaging 25.1 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 3.9 blocks per game, proving his ability to impact both ends of the court. San Antonio has shown promise, particularly on the boards, ranking fifth in the league in rebounds per game. However, consistency remains an issue, with the team going 4-6 in their last 10 games.

This matchup will hinge on Memphis’s ability to exploit their offensive advantages and San Antonio’s efforts to leverage their size and rebounding prowess. While the Grizzlies have been more consistent this season, the Spurs’ home-court advantage and Wembanyama’s stellar play could make this a competitive contest.

Prediction: Grizzlies def. Spurs 118-114

Dallas Mavericks At New Orleans Pelicans – 8:00 PM EST

Mavericks Current Record: 22-18

Pelicans Current Record: 9-32

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

Pelicans Injuries: Brandon Ingram – Out (Ankle), Herbert Jones – Out (Shoulder)

Last 5 Meetings: Mavericks Leaad 3-2

The Dallas Mavericks take on the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center in a matchup that highlights contrasting narratives for these two teams. The Mavericks are contending in the Western Conference despite missing Luka Doncic (calf strain) and Kyrie Irving (back sprain), relying on veteran contributors like Klay Thompson and P.J. Washington. However, their recent 1-4 stretch highlights the challenges of playing without their stars.

The Pelicans, struggling at the bottom of the standings, enter with a glimmer of momentum after defeating the Bulls 119-113. Trey Murphy III was exceptional with 32 points, and Zion Williamson continues to make his mark with a mix of interior dominance and playmaking. Despite their record, the Pelicans’ energy and pace, led by Dejounte Murray and Murphy, make them a dangerous underdog.

Dallas’s balanced offense (116.1 points per game) faces New Orleans’ inconsistent defense, which allows 117.1 points per game. However, the Mavericks’ reliance on perimeter shooting without Doncic and Irving will be tested by the Pelicans’ scrappy defense and transition play.

The Mavericks’ depth should carry them through but expect a closer game than anticipated.

Prediction: Mavericks def. Pelicans 112-108

Houston Rockets At Denver Nuggets – 9:00 PM EST

Rockets Current Record: 26-12

Nuggets Current Record: 24-15

Rockets Injuries: Jock Landale – Out (Personal), Tari Eason – Out (Leg), Jabari Smith Jr. – Out (Hand)

Nuggets Injuries: Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Rockets Lead 4-1

The Houston Rockets travel to face the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena in a clash between two Western Conference powerhouses. The Rockets are riding a four-game win streak, fueled by Jalen Green’s stellar play, including a career-high 42 points in their last outing. Complemented by Alperen Sengun’s dominance on the boards and Fred VanVleet’s playmaking, Houston has solidified its spot near the top of the conference.

The Nuggets, led by reigning MVP Nikola Jokic, have also been in strong form, winning eight of their last ten games. Jokic continues to dominate with triple-doubles, while Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. provide critical offensive support. Denver thrives at home with a 12-7 record, leveraging their fast-paced offense and balanced attack to outscore opponents.

This matchup highlights two contrasting styles: Houston’s interior dominance and Denver’s perimeter efficiency. While Houston’s defense has shown resilience, Denver’s home-court advantage and Jokic’s ability to elevate his team in crucial moments could tilt the game in the Nuggets’ favor.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Rockets 116-112

Charlotte Hornets At Utah Jazz – 9:00 PM EST

Hornets Current Record: 8-28

Jazz Current Record: 10-28

Hornets Injuries: N/A

Jazz Injuries: Keyonte George – Out (Hip), Colin Sexton – Out (Rest), John Collins – Out (Hip), Lauri Markkanen – Out (Back), Johhny Juzang – Out (Hand), Jordan Clarkson – Out (Foot), Taylor Hendricks – Out (Leg)

Last 5 Meetings: Jazz Lead 3-2

The Charlotte Hornets visit the Utah Jazz in what promises to be a battle of struggling teams. The Hornets, led by LaMelo Ball, aim to break their losing skid against a Jazz squad dealing with significant injuries to key players like Lauri Markkanen, John Collins, and Collin Sexton.

Charlotte’s offense has been inconsistent, ranking near the bottom of the league in points per game. However, with Ball averaging 29.7 points and 7.4 assists, the Hornets have a chance to exploit Utah’s porous defense, which allows 117.6 points per game. Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges will need to provide secondary scoring to ensure offensive balance.

The Jazz, despite their struggles, have shown resilience at home. Isaiah Collier and Walker Kessler will be pivotal in controlling the paint and rebounding. With the Hornets’ poor shooting efficiency and Utah’s ability to force turnovers, the Jazz could capitalize on Charlotte’s mistakes.

However, the Hornets’ healthier lineup gives them an edge in this matchup. Expect LaMelo Ball to lead Charlotte to a much-needed victory against an injury-riddled Jazz team.

Prediction: Hornets def. Jazz 115-110

Golden State Warriors At Minnesota Timberwolves – 9:30 PM EST

Warriors Current Record: 19-20

Wolves Current Record: 21-18

Warriors Injuries: Gary Payton II – Day To Day (Calf), Trayce Jackson-Davis – Day To Day (Thumb), Draymond Green – Day To Day (Illness), Kyle Anderson – Day To Day (Hamstring), Brandin Podziemski – Out (Abdomen), Jonathan Kuminga – Out (Ankle)

Wolves Injuries: Terrence Shannon Jr. – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 3-2

The Golden State Warriors visit the Minnesota Timberwolves in a Western Conference showdown at the Target Center. The Warriors are in a slump, losing four of their last five games, and their offense has been inconsistent. While Stephen Curry has been performing well, the team lacks scoring support, and defensive strength alone hasn’t been enough to secure victories.

The Timberwolves, on the other hand, have won four of their last five games. Anthony Edwards has been on a tear, highlighted by a 41-point performance in their recent win against the Wizards. Despite occasional struggles in close games, Minnesota’s defensive improvement and Edwards’ leadership have propelled them to a strong stretch of play.

Golden State’s defense will need to shine to limit Edwards and the Timberwolves’ balanced attack. However, the Timberwolves’ ability to exploit Golden State’s offensive struggles gives them a significant edge at home.

Prediction: Wolves def. Warriors 115-106

Miami Heat At Los Angeles Lakers – 10:00 PM EST

Heat Current Record: 20-18

Lakers Current Record: 20-17

Heat Injuries: Kel’el Ware – Day To Day (Foot), Bam Adebayo – Day To Day (Back), Josh Richardson – Out (Heel), Dru Smith – Out (Achilles)

Lakers Injuries: LeBron James – Day To Day (Foot), Anthony Davis – Day To Day (Foot), Bronny James – Day To Day (Illness), Dorian Finney-Smith – Day To Day (Personal), Jalen Hood-Schifino – Out (Hamstring), Christian Wood – Out (Knee), Jarred Vanderbilt – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Heat Lead 4-1

The Miami Heat face the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena in a pivotal matchup for both teams. The Lakers boast a solid 12-6 home record, anchored by the duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. James continues to defy age with averages of 23.7 points and 8.8 assists, while Davis is a dominant presence inside, averaging 25.9 points and 11.9 rebounds.

The Heat, dealing with the absence of Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo’s questionable status, will lean heavily on Tyler Herro. Herro has been stellar this season, averaging 24 points per game and coming off a 32-point performance against the Clippers. Miami will need contributions from players like Terry Rozier and their bench to overcome the Lakers’ star power.

This game is crucial for playoff positioning in their respective conferences. While the Heat have been inconsistent on the road, their balanced attack and ability to spread the floor could create challenges for the Lakers. However, Los Angeles’s home-court advantage and superior star power should give them the edge in this contest.

Prediction: Lakers def. Heat 112-105

Brooklyn Nets At Los Angeles Clippers – 10:30 PM EST

Nets Current Record: 14-26

Clippers Current Record: 21-17

Nets Injuries: Nic Claxton – Out (Hamstring), Trendon Watford – Out (Hamstring), Bojan Bogdanovic – Out (Foot), Cam Thomas – Out (Hamstring), Maxwell Lewis – Out (Knee)

Clippers Injuries: P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 3-2

The Brooklyn Nets visit the Los Angeles Clippers at the Intuit Dome in a matchup of teams with contrasting fortunes. The Clippers, strong at home with a 13-6 record, look to leverage their elite defense, ranked fifth in the NBA, to secure another victory. James Harden, averaging 21.5 points and 7.9 assists, leads the Clippers alongside Norman Powell and Kawhi Leonard.

The Nets, on the other hand, are struggling with consistency and have faced difficulties on the road. Nic Claxton’s interior defense and Cameron Johnson’s offensive capabilities will be key for Brooklyn as they aim to compete against a well-rounded Clippers squad. The Nets’ three-point shooting, ranked seventh in the league, provides them an avenue to stay competitive, but their lack of rebounding (29th overall) could be a major hurdle.

The Clippers’ superior roster depth, defensive consistency, and home-court advantage make them the favorites in this matchup. Expect Los Angeles to control the pace and limit the Nets’ scoring opportunities, securing a decisive win.

Prediction: Clippers def. Nets 114-99