NBA Daily Picks For January 8th, 2025: Cavaliers Face Thunder In Battle Of Two Best Teams

After a solid 4-3 record in last night’s predictions, our season record stands at 225-131, with an accuracy rate of 63.2%. Tonight, we have an exciting 8-game slate, featuring some intriguing matchups. Let’s break it down and aim for a strong night.

The evening kicks off with the Oklahoma City Thunder facing the Cleveland Cavaliers in a showdown between two of the best teams in the league. In the next game, the Chicago Bulls take on the Indiana Pacers, with both teams starting to build some momentum. 

The Washington Wizards face the Philadelphia 76ers, who are starting to get back on track. The Detroit Pistons take on the Brooklyn Nets, where the Nets are expected to control the game against the rebuilding Pistons. 

The Toronto Raptors face the New York Knicks in what promises to be a gritty Eastern Conference clash. The Portland Trail Blazers meet the New Orleans Pelicans, with both teams in need of consistency. 

In a marquee Western Conference matchup, the Los Angeles Clippers take on the Denver Nuggets. Finally, the San Antonio Spurs face the Milwaukee Bucks, with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard looking to assert their dominance.

Let’s dive into these matchups and aim for another strong round of predictions tonight.

Oklahoma City Thunder At Cleveland Cavaliers – 7:00 PM EST

Thunder Current Record: 31-4

Cavaliers Current Record: 30-5

Thunder Injuries: Ajay Mithcell – Out (Toe), Alex Caruso – Out (Hip), Alex Ducas – Out (Back), Adam Flagler – Out (Hand), Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Nikola Topic – Out (ACL)

Cavaliers Injuries: Sam Merrill – Out (Ankle), Issac Okoro – Out (Shoulder)

Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 3-2

The Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Cleveland Cavaliers in a matchup of the NBA’s top teams. The Cavaliers, riding a 10-game win streak, have been dominant at home with an 18-1 record. Meanwhile, the Thunder come in on a franchise-record 15-game win streak, showcasing elite defense and balanced offense.

Cleveland boasts the league’s second-highest scoring offense (122.5 PPG) and the best three-point shooting percentage (40.4%). Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland lead the charge, with Evan Mobley anchoring the defense. The Cavaliers thrive on efficiency, ranking among the NBA’s best in turnovers and assists.

OKC counters with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who’s averaging over 30 points per game, supported by Jalen Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein. The Thunder lead the league in steals and force the most turnovers per game, creating a defensive edge.

This game will likely be a chess match of contrasting strengths. Cleveland’s efficiency and home-court advantage may ultimately outlast OKC’s relentless defense.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Thunder 113-110

Chicago Bulls At Indiana Pacers – 7:00 PM EST

Bulls Current Record: 17-19

Pacers Current Record: 19-18

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

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

Last 5 Meetings: Bulls Lead 3-2

The Indiana Pacers host the Chicago Bulls in an exciting Eastern Conference matchup at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on January 8, 2025. The Pacers are riding high with a three-game winning streak, where they’ve dominated with efficient shooting and stellar playmaking. Tyrese Haliburton has been key, averaging 27.6 points and 10.3 assists during the streak, while Pascal Siakam and Bennedict Mathurin have provided consistent scoring and rebounding support.

On the other hand, the Bulls have won four of their last five games, highlighted by a dramatic comeback win against the Spurs. Zach LaVine has been on fire, averaging 28.8 points over the last five games, with significant contributions from Coby White and Nikola Vucevic. Their offense has been clicking, but defensive lapses remain a concern, especially against a high-powered team like Indiana.

This game is expected to be a high-scoring affair, with the Pacers’ offensive efficiency and home-court advantage giving them a slight edge. The Bulls will need to tighten their defense and capitalize on second-chance opportunities to stay competitive.

Prediction: Pacers def. Bulls 127-119

Washington Wizards At Philadelphia 76ers – 7:00 PM EST

Wizards Current Record: 6-28

Sixers Current Record: 14-20

Wizards Injuries: Jordan Poole – Day To Day (Hip), Malcolm Brogdon – Day To Day (Foot), Kyle Kuzma – Day To Day (Calf), Johhny Davis – Out (Illness), Tristan Vukcevic – Out (Ankle), Marvin Bagley III – Out (Knee), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Sixers Injuries: Andre Drummond – Day To Day (Toe), Kyle Lowry – Out (Hip), Paul George – Out (Groin), Joel Embiid – Out (Foot), KJ Martin – Out (Foot), Jared McCain – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 5-0

The Washington Wizards travel to face the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center in a matchup of teams looking to find consistency. The Wizards, sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, face an uphill battle against the 76ers, even with key Philadelphia players like Joel Embiid and Paul George sidelined due to injuries.

Washington’s offense is led by Jordan Poole, who averages 21.8 points per game and is crucial for their perimeter scoring. However, their defensive struggles are glaring—they allow the most points per game in the NBA, making it challenging to stay competitive against even shorthanded opponents. Kyle Kuzma’s status remains uncertain after leaving the previous game with an injury, further complicating Washington’s efforts.

The 76ers, while missing key players, will lean on Tyrese Maxey to lead their offense. Maxey’s 25.4 points per game and ability to create opportunities will be vital against the Wizards’ porous defense. Philadelphia’s defensive efficiency, despite missing Embiid, should limit Washington’s scoring threats. The Sixers’ ability to control pace and capitalize on transition opportunities gives them a distinct edge.

The 76ers’ depth and defensive discipline should be enough to secure a victory, despite their own injury concerns. Expect a strong performance from Maxey and solid contributions from the supporting cast.

Prediction: Sixers def. Wizards 112-101

Detroit Pistons At Brooklyn Nets – 7:30 PM EST

Pistons Current Record: 18-18

Nets Current Record: 13-23

Pistons Injuries: Ausar Thompson – Out (Illness), Jaden Ivey – Out (Leg)

Nets Injuries: Bojan Bogdanovic – Out (Foot), Ben Simmons – Out (Calf), D’Angelo Russell – Out (Shin), Trendon Watford – Out (Hamstring), Cameron Johnson – Out (Ankle), Cam Thomas – Out (Hamstring), Maxwell Lewis – Out (Tibia)

Last 5 Meetings: Nets Lead 3-2

The Detroit Pistons head to Brooklyn to face the struggling Nets in an Eastern Conference matchup at Barclays Center. Riding a four-game winning streak, Detroit has shown excellent form, led by Cade Cunningham, who is averaging 24.4 points and 9.5 assists per game. 

The Pistons have elevated their play with solid contributions from Tobias Harris, Jaden Ivey, and Jalen Duren, showcasing a balanced offensive and defensive approach. Their ability to dominate the boards will be key against a Nets squad that ranks last in the league in rebounding.

Brooklyn enters the game on a six-game home losing streak and has struggled offensively, averaging just 107.5 points per game. The absence of key players has hampered their season, but the team has shown glimpses of cohesion with recent performances from Cameron Johnson and D’Angelo Russell. Despite their challenges, Brooklyn will look to leverage their perimeter shooting to keep the game close.

Detroit’s recent form and overall balance give them the edge in this matchup. The Pistons are likely to exploit Brooklyn’s weaknesses on the boards and take control of the game behind Cunningham’s leadership.

Prediction: Pistons def. Nets 112-101

Toronto Raptors At New York Knicks – 7:30 PM EST

Raptors Current Record: 8-28

Knicks Current Record: 24-13

Raptors Injuries: N/A

Knicks Injuries: Miles McBride – Day To Day (Hamstring), Karl-Anthony Towns – Day To Day (Knee), Mitchell Robinson – Out (Ankle), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 5-0

The New York Knicks will host the Toronto Raptors at Madison Square Garden as they aim to rebound from a tough loss against the Orlando Magic. The Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, have been a strong force this season, sitting third in the Eastern Conference. However, the absence of Towns in their previous game exposed vulnerabilities, particularly against physical and defensive-minded teams.

Toronto enters this matchup with struggles on both ends of the court, highlighted by their league-worst three-point shooting efficiency. RJ Barrett and Scottie Barnes remain the bright spots for the Raptors, combining for strong offensive production, but the team’s defensive lapses and turnover issues have been consistent problems. Against a high-scoring Knicks squad, the Raptors will need to maximize transition opportunities and improve their perimeter defense to stand a chance.

The Knicks’ strong offensive efficiency, particularly from deep, and their ability to capitalize on turnovers make them clear favorites. With Towns expected to return, his interior dominance combined with Brunson’s playmaking should create challenges for Toronto. The Raptors will likely struggle to contain New York’s balanced attack.

Prediction: Knicks def. Raptors 121-105

Portland Trail Blazers At New Orleans Pelicans – 8:00 PM EST

Blazers Current Record: 12-23

Pelicans Current Record: 7-30

Blazers Injuries: Donovan Clingan – Day To Day (Rest), Deni Avdjia – Day To Day (Wrist), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle), Jerami Grant – Out (Face)

Pelicans Injuries: Jamal Cain – Out (Illness), Trey Murphy III – Out (Ankle), Brandon Ingram – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Pelicans Lead 3-2

The New Orleans Pelicans face the Portland Trail Blazers at the Smoothie King Center in a matchup between two struggling Western Conference teams. The Pelicans, coming off a pair of wins against the Wizards, will aim to extend their momentum behind strong performances from CJ McCollum and Dejounte Murray. 

However, injuries to key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram remain significant challenges. The Pelicans rely on their fast-paced play and solid interior scoring, though consistency has been elusive this season.

The Trail Blazers have shown flashes of promise, led by Anfernee Simons and Deandre Ayton. Despite their recent narrow loss to the Pistons, Portland has struggled on the road, losing nine of their last ten away games. Defensive lapses and inconsistent shooting have hindered their ability to close out games, and they will need strong contributions from Ayton in the paint and Simons on the perimeter to stay competitive.

This game is likely to hinge on defensive execution and rebounding. While the Trail Blazers have a slight edge in scoring efficiency, the Pelicans’ recent improvements and home-court advantage might tip the scales.

Prediction: Pelicans def. Trail Blazers 112-108

Los Angeles Clippers At Denver Nuggets – 9:00 PM EST

Clippers Current Record: 20-16

Nuggets Current Record: 20-15

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

Nuggets Injuries: Nikola Jokic – Away from team (Illness), Spencer Jones – Out (Thigh), Aaron Gordon – Out (Calf), Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 4-1

The Los Angeles Clippers visit the Denver Nuggets in a compelling Western Conference clash at Ball Arena. Both teams aim to solidify their standings as they battle for playoff positioning. The Clippers, led by Norman Powell and James Harden, have excelled defensively, allowing just 107.9 points per game. Harden’s playmaking and Powell’s scoring punch will be pivotal in this matchup. Kawhi Leonard’s gradual return adds depth, although he’s yet to reach full form.

The Nuggets, despite a loss to Boston in their last game, remain formidable at home. Nikola Jokic, averaging 31.5 points, 13 rebounds, and 12 assists, is expected to dominate after missing the previous game due to illness. Denver’s offense thrives on Jokic’s orchestration, complemented by Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray. However, their defense has been a concern, allowing 117.5 points per game, which ranks near the bottom of the league.

This game will likely come down to the Clippers’ ability to contain Jokic and the Nuggets’ ability to defend the perimeter. Denver’s home-court advantage and Jokic’s return give them the edge, but the Clippers’ strong defense and balanced scoring make this a close contest.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Clippers 117-114

San Antonio Spurs At Milwaukee Bucks – 9:30 PM EST

Spurs Current Record: 18-18

Bucks Current Record: 18-16

Spurs Injuries: Jeremy Sochan – Out (Back)

Bucks Injuries: Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Knee), Andre Jackson Jr. – Day To Day (Back), Khris Middleton – Day To Day (Ankles)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 3-2

The San Antonio Spurs face the Milwaukee Bucks in an intriguing matchup at Fiserv Forum. Both teams are looking to solidify their standing as they aim to move up in their respective conferences. 

San Antonio will rely heavily on Victor Wembanyama, who has been a dominant presence on both ends of the floor. His 25.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, and league-leading 4.0 blocks per game make him a pivotal player. The Spurs’ balanced scoring and improved ball security will be key as they seek to snap a two-game skid.

The Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, come in with the motivation to end a three-game home losing streak. Giannis continues to be a force, averaging 31.6 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. 

Meanwhile, Lillard’s sharpshooting and the supporting contributions of Bobby Portis and Brook Lopez add depth to Milwaukee’s attack. The Bucks’ superior three-point shooting and offensive efficiency give them a significant advantage, especially against a young Spurs team that has struggled on the road.

Expect a hard-fought game with standout performances from both Wembanyama and Antetokounmpo. However, Milwaukee’s home-court advantage and veteran experience should tip the scales in their favor.

Prediction: Bucks def. Spurs 116-110