NBA Daily Picks For March 27, 2024: Lakers Are Stronger Than Grizzlies, Suns Need Rain To Beat Nuggets

In last night’s round of predictions, Fadeaway World went 2-2, bringing our season record to an impressive 367-197. Tonight, with a massive 12-game lineup, we’re geared up to provide insights and predictions with our notable accuracy rate of 65.07%.

The Cleveland Cavaliers tip off the day against the Charlotte Hornets, followed by the Golden State Warriors facing the Orlando Magic. Next, the Brooklyn Nets take on the Washington Wizards, while the Portland Trail Blazers challenge the Atlanta Hawks.

Later in the day, the Los Angeles Clippers clash with the Philadelphia 76ers, and the New York Knicks go head-to-head with the Toronto Raptors. Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers meet the Chicago Bulls, and the Los Angeles Lakers square off against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Additionally, the Detroit Pistons will take on the Minnesota Timberwolves, while the Houston Rockets go head-to-head with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Following that, the San Antonio Spurs will face the Utah Jazz, and the Phoenix Suns will take on the Denver Nuggets. It’s set to be an action-packed day of NBA basketball!

Cleveland Cavaliers At Charlotte Hornets – 7 PM EST

Cavaliers Last 10 Games: 4-6

Hornets Last 10 Games: 2-8

Cavaliers Injuries: Dean Wade – Out (Knee), Max Strus – Out (Knee), Donovan Mitchell – Out (Nasal Fracture), Ty Jerome – Out (Ankle)

Hornets Injuries: LaMelo Ball – Out (Ankle), Mark Williams – Out (Back), Seth Curry – Out (Ankle), Cody Martin – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Cavaliers Lead 4-1

The Cleveland Cavaliers (44-28) are set to take on the Charlotte Hornets (17-54) in the second of three matchups this month. The Cavaliers, currently third in the Eastern Conference, aim to maintain their position with a victory after halting a three-game losing streak in their last outing. Led by Jarrett Allen’s consistent double-double performances, Cleveland’s solid defense and balanced scoring have been key factors this season. 

Meanwhile, the Hornets, languishing near the bottom of the conference, have struggled to find consistency, especially on offense. Despite Brandon Miller’s impressive contributions, Charlotte’s defensive vulnerabilities and offensive struggles could pose challenges against the Cavaliers.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Hornets 124-116

Golden State Warriors At Orlando Magic – 7 PM EST

Warriors Last 10 Games: 7-3

Magic Last 10 Games: 4-6

Warriors Injuries: Trayce Jackson-Davis – Out 

Magic Injuries: Caleb Houstan – Out (Ankle), Gary Harris – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Magic Lead 3-2

The Golden State Warriors (37-34) are gearing up for a showdown against the Orlando Magic (42-29) at the Amway Center. After a recent win against the Miami Heat, the Warriors, led by the formidable Stephen Curry, remain a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference. Curry’s stellar performances, coupled with the team’s defensive focus and energy, have been key factors in their quest for a playoff berth. 

Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic, although coming off a loss to the Sacramento Kings, have shown resilience with a five-game winning streak prior. With Paolo Banchero and Jonathan Isaac leading the charge, the Magic present a competitive challenge at home.

Prediction: Magic def. Warriors 124-119

Brooklyn Nets At Washington Wizards – 7 PM EST

Nets Last 10 Games: 2-8

Wizards Last 10 Games: 5-5

Nets Injuries: Cam Thomas – Day To Day (Back), Keita Bates-Diop – Out (Shin), Dennis Smith Jr. – Out (Hip), Cameron Johnson – Out (Toe), Ben Simmons – Out (Back), Dariq Whitehead – Out (Shin Stress)

Wizards Injuries: Landry Shamet – Out (Calf), Eugene Omoruyi – Out (Ankle), Tyus Jones – Out (Back), Bilal Coulibaly – Out (Wrist), Isaiah Livers – Out (Hip)

Last 5 Meetings: Nets Lead 4-1

The Brooklyn Nets (27-45) are set to clash with the Washington Wizards (14-58) at Capital One Arena in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. After snapping a six-game losing streak with a victory over the Toronto Raptors, the Nets will look to build on their momentum. Led by Dennis Schroder and Trendon Watford, Brooklyn aims to capitalize on their recent success. 

On the other side, the Wizards are riding high on a three-game winning streak, including a notable victory against the Chicago Bulls. With Jordan Poole and Corey Kispert leading the charge, Washington is poised to continue their winning ways. Both teams will be eager to secure another win, making this contest a compelling battle between two determined squads, with the Wizards coming out on top.

Prediction: Wizards def. Nets 124-117

Portland Trail Blazers At Atlanta Hawks – 7:30 PM EST

Blazers Last 10 Games: 2-8

Hawks Last 10 Games: 5-5

Blazers Injuries: Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle), Deandre Ayton – Out (Elbow), Jerami Grant – Out (Hamstring), Anfernee Simons – Out (Knee), Shaedon Sharpe – Out (Abdomen), Malcolm Brogdon – Out (Elbow)

Hawks Injuries: Dejounte Murray – Day To Day (Back), Onyeka Okongwu – Out (Toe), Trae Young – Out (Finger), AJ Griffin – Out (Ankle), Kobe Bufkin – Out (Toe), Jalen Johnson – Out (Ankle), Mouhamed Gueye – Out (UCL), Saddiq Bey – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Blazers Lead 3-2

The Portland Trail Blazers (19-53), enduring a seven-game losing streak and sitting second to last in the Western Conference, face the Atlanta Hawks (32-39), who have won three of their last five games and hold the final play-in spot in the East. Portland, led by Anfernee Simons and Deandre Ayton, has struggled with injuries but looks to bounce back after a tough loss to the Rockets. 

Meanwhile, Atlanta, led by Dejounte Murray and Clint Capela, aims to continue their recent success after a remarkable comeback win against the Celtics. Despite injuries plaguing both teams, Atlanta’s recent form and home-court advantage give them the edge in what could be a closely contested matchup.

Prediction: Hawks def. Blazers 123-114

Los Angeles Clippers At Philadelphia 76ers – 7:30 PM EST

Clippers Last 10 Games: 4-6

Sixers Last 10 Games: 4-6

Clippers Injuries: Jordan Miller – Day To Day (Achilles), Moussa Diabate – Out 

Sixers Injuries: Kelly Oubre Jr. – Day To Day (Shoulder), Robert Covington – Out (Knee), Joel Embiid – Out (Knee), De’Anthony Melton – Out (Spine)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 4-1

In a cross-conference clash, the Los Angeles Clippers (44-27) visit the Philadelphia 76ers (39-33) at the Wells Fargo Center. The Clippers, currently fifth in the West, have stumbled recently with two consecutive losses, but remain formidable with Kawhi Leonard leading the charge. Meanwhile, the 76ers, despite Joel Embiid’s absence due to injury, managed to secure a win against the Clippers in their recent encounter. 

However, Philadelphia has struggled overall, losing three of their last four games. With both teams seeking to regain momentum, this matchup promises to be intense. Expect a competitive battle between two talented squads, but with the Clippers possessing a healthier roster, they may hold the edge in securing a victory on the road.

Prediction: Clippers def. Sixers 126-118

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

Knicks Last 10 Games: 7-3

Raptors Last 10 Games: 0-10

Knicks Injuries: Alec Burks – Day To Day (Shoulder), Mitchell Robinson – Out (Ankle), OG Anunoby – Out (Elbow), Julius Randle – Out (Shoulder)

Raptors Injuries: D.J. Carton – Out (Ankle), Immanuel Quickley – Out (Conditioning), RJ Barrett – Out (Personal), Jakob Poeltl – Out (Hand), Scottie Barnes – Out (Hand), Jontay Porter – Out (Away From Team), Chris Boucher – Out (MCL)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 3-2

The New York Knicks (43-28) head to Toronto to take on the struggling Raptors (17-54) at Scotiabank Arena. With a solid defensive game, the Knicks have been on a winning streak, securing six victories in their last seven outings. Their prowess lies in limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities, ranking second in points allowed per game this season. 

Meanwhile, the Raptors continue to face defensive challenges, having lost their last eleven games. Despite their offensive capabilities, Toronto struggles defensively, allowing too many quality shots and ranking poorly in opponent field goal percentages. In this matchup, the Knicks’ defensive strength could prove decisive against the Raptors’ faltering offense.

Prediction: Knicks def. Raptors 119-106

Indiana Pacers At Chicago Bulls – 8 PM EST

Pacers Last 10 Games: 6-4

Bulls Last 10 Games: 4-6

Pacers Injuries: T.J McConnell – Day To Day (Ankle), Aaron Nesmith – Out (Knee), Isaiah Wong – Day To Day, Bennedict Mathurin – Out (Shoulder)

Bulls Injuries: Alex Caruso – Day To Day (Ankle), Lonzo Ball – Out (Knee), Julian Phillips – Out (Foot), Patrick Williams – Out (Foot), Zach LaVine – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Pacers Lead 3-2

The Chicago Bulls (34-38) face off against the Indiana Pacers (41-32) at the United Center, with both teams eyeing critical victories for their playoff aspirations. Despite recent struggles, the Bulls maintain a narrow lead over the Atlanta Hawks for the 9th seed in the Eastern Conference, banking on star performances from DeMar DeRozan.

Conversely, the Pacers, led by Pascal Siakam’s steadying influence, aim to secure their position in the standings and continue their momentum after a successful road trip. With the Bulls seeking redemption after a three-game skid and the Pacers looking to capitalize on their offensive rhythm, this matchup promises intensity and strategic maneuvers.

Prediction: Pacers def. Bulls 129-122

Los Angeles Lakers At Memphis Grizzlies – 8 PM EST

Lakers Last 10 Games: 7-3

Grizzlies Last 10 Games: 3-7

Lakers Injuries: LeBron James – Day To Day (Ankle), Jarred Vanderbilt – Out (Foot), Gabe Vincent – Out (Knee), Jalen Hood-Schifino – Out, Christian Wood – Out (Knee), Colin Castleton – Out (Wrist)

Grizzlies Injuries: John Konchar – Day To Day (Heel), Yuta Watanabe – Out (Personal), Brandon Clarke – Out (Achilles), Luke Kennard – Out (Personal), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Knee), Derrick Rose – Out (Pubis), Ziarie Williams – Out (Hip), Marcus Smart – Out (Finger), Ja Morant – Out (Shoulder)

Last 5 Meetings: Lakers Lead 3-2

The Los Angeles Lakers (40-32) visit the Memphis Grizzlies (24-48) in a Western Conference showdown at the FedExForum. With the Lakers vying for a playoff spot, their offensive firepower, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, poses a significant challenge for the struggling Grizzlies. 

Despite Memphis showing defensive prowess, the absence of key offensive contributors and their overall offensive struggles suggest a tough matchup against the Lakers’ potent scoring attack. While the Grizzlies have showcased resilience in defense, their limited offensive output could hinder their ability to keep pace with the Lakers’ high-scoring offense.

Prediction: Lakers def. Grizzlies 126-116

Detroit Pistons At Minnesota Timberwolves – 8 PM EST

Pistons Last 10 Games: 2-8

Wolves Last 10 Games: 7-3

Pistons Injuries: Cade Cunningham – Day To Day (Knee), Taj Gibson – Out (Hamstring), Quentin Grimes – Out (Knee), Simone Fontecchio – Out (Toe), Jalen Duren – Out (Back), Stanley Umude – Out (Ankle), Isaiah Stewart – Out (Hamstring), Ausar Thompson – Out (Blood Clot)

Wolves Injuries: Anthony Edwards – Day To Day (Finger), Rudy Gobert – Day To Day (Rib), Jaylen Clark – Out (Achilles), Karl-Anthony Towns – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 3-2

In a matchup between the struggling Detroit Pistons (12-60) and the playoff-bound Minnesota Timberwolves (49-22), the odds heavily favor the Wolves. The Pistons, with the worst record in the NBA, have lost seven consecutive games and face significant injury challenges. 

Meanwhile, the Timberwolves, despite missing Karl-Anthony Towns, have been competitive and are fighting for a higher seed in the Western Conference. With key players like Anthony Edwards and Naz Reid stepping up, the Wolves have demonstrated resilience. Considering the Pistons’ struggles and the Wolves’ overall strength, it’s likely that Minnesota will secure a comfortable victory in this contest.

Prediction: Wolves def. Pistons 125-114

Houston Rockets At Oklahoma City Thunder – 8 PM EST

Rockets Last 10 Games: 8-2

Thunder Last 10 Games: 9-1

Rockets Injuries: Cam Whitmore – Out (Knee), Alperen Sengun – Out (Ankle), Tari Eason – Out (Leg), Steven Adams – Out (Knee)

Thunder Injuries: N/A

Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 4-1

In a showdown between the Houston Rockets (36-35) and the Oklahoma City Thunder (50-21), anticipation runs high as the Rockets arrive on a formidable nine-game winning streak. Led by standout performances from Jalen Green and a resolute defensive effort, the Rockets have been a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder, despite a solid season, face the challenge of playing on the second night of a back-to-back. 

With both teams eager to assert their dominance, fans can expect an intense battle on the court. However, with their current momentum and cohesive play, the Houston Rockets appear poised to extend their winning streak with a victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Prediction: Rockets def. Thunder 122-115

San Antonio Spurs At Utah Jazz – 9 PM EST

Spurs Last 10 Games: 3-7

Jazz Last 10 Games: 1-9

Spurs Injuries: Victor Wembanyama – Day To Day (Ankle), Keldon Johnson – Out (Knee), Charles Bassey – Out (ACL)

Jazz Injuries: Lauri Markkanen – Day To Day (Quad), Jordan Clarkson – Out (Back)

Last 5 Meetings: Jazz Lead 4-1

In a matchup between the struggling San Antonio Spurs (16-56) and the slumping Utah Jazz (29-43), both teams seek a much-needed win to reverse their recent fortunes. The Spurs, coming off a surprise victory, aim to capitalize on their momentum despite uncertainty surrounding star rookie Victor Wembanyama’s availability. 

Meanwhile, the Jazz, enduring a six-game skid, look to regain their winning form, especially on their home court where they’ve historically performed well. With both teams desperate to halt their respective slides, expect a fiercely contested battle as each squad strives to secure a crucial victory.

Prediction: Spurs def. Jazz 121-118

Phoenix Suns At Denver Nuggets – 10 PM EST

Suns Last 10 Games: 6-4

Nuggets Last 10 Games: 9-1

Suns Injuries: Jusuf Nurkic – Day To Day (Ankle), Bradley Beal – Day To Day (Finger), Damion Lee – Out (Knee)

Nuggets Injuries: Jamal Murray – Day To Day (Ankle), Michael Porter Jr. – Day To Day (Illness), Aaron Gordon – Day To Day (Foot), Nikola Jokic – Day To Day (Hip), Zeke Nnaji – Out (Thigh), Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Suns Lead 3-2

In a clash between Western Conference contenders, the Phoenix Suns (42-30) head to Denver to take on the Nuggets (51-21) in what promises to be a thrilling matchup. The Suns, led by stars Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, aim to bounce back from a narrow defeat in their last outing and solidify their playoff positioning. 

However, they face a formidable challenge in the Nuggets, who boast a potent offense led by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. With both teams showcasing high-scoring abilities and defensive prowess, expect an intense battle as they vie for a crucial victory in the competitive Western Conference race.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Suns 131-124