NBA Daily Picks For December 15th, 2024: Mavericks Face Warriors In Blockbuster Clash

After a perfect 2-0 performance in last night’s predictions, our season record now stands at an impressive 151-82, boosting our accuracy rate to 64.8%. Tonight, we’re back to regular-season action with a competitive 7-game slate, and we’re aiming to keep the momentum going.

The evening kicks off with the New Orleans Pelicans taking on the Indiana Pacers, a matchup of contrasting styles. Meanwhile, the defending champions, the Boston Celtics, face the league’s worst team, the Washington Wizards, in what appears to be a lopsided contest on paper.

In another intriguing matchup, the New York Knicks meet the surging Orlando Magic, a game that promises to be a defensive battle. Over in the West, the Minnesota Timberwolves face the San Antonio Spurs, who are searching for answers to halt their skid.

Later, the Portland Trail Blazers take on the Phoenix Suns, with the Suns looking to assert their dominance behind their star-studded lineup. In a marquee matchup, the Dallas Mavericks clash with the Golden State Warriors in what promises to be an electrifying game featuring Luka Doncic and Stephen Curry.

Finally, the Memphis Grizzlies, riding a hot streak, face the struggling Los Angeles Lakers, who are desperate to turn their season around and find consistency.

Let’s dive into these games and aim for another stellar night of predictions.

New Orleans Pelicans At Indiana Pacers – 5:00 PM EST

Pelicans Current Record: 5-21

Pacers Current Record: 11-15

Pelicans Injuries: Javonte Green – Day To Day (Ankle), Jeremiah Robinson – Out (Illness), Jordan Hawkins – Out (Back), Karlo Matkovic – Out (Back), Brandon Ingram – Out (Ankle), Jose Alvarado – Out (Hamstring), Zion Willaimson – Out (Hamstring)

Pacers Injuries: Aaron Nesmith – Out (Ankle), Ben Sheppard – Out (Oblique), Isaiah Jackson – Out (Achilles), James Wiseman – Out (Achilles)

Last 5 Meetings: Pelicans Lead 3-2

The New Orleans Pelicans face off against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in a matchup of two teams striving to turn their seasons around. The Pelicans enter the game with a dismal 5-21 record, including a 12-game road losing streak, while the Pacers stand at 11-15 and look to build momentum after a solid 121-107 win over the Philadelphia 76ers.

The Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, boast one of the league’s most potent offenses, averaging over 120 points per game. Myles Turner’s rim protection and three-point shooting further strengthen their chances against a Pelicans team struggling with consistency. New Orleans, plagued by injuries to key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, will rely heavily on CJ McCollum and Dejounte Murray to carry the load offensively.

While the Pelicans have shown flashes of competitiveness, their inability to win on the road and Indiana’s home-court advantage make this a tall task. Expect the Pacers’ balanced attack to control the pace and secure a decisive win.

Prediction: Pacers def. Pelicans 118-110

Boston Celtics At Washington Wizards – 6:00 PM EST

Celtics Current Record: 20-5

Wizards Current Record: 3-20

Celtics Injuries: Al Horford – Out (Undisclosed)

Wizards Injuries: Corey Kispert – Out (Ankle), Kyshawn George – Out (Ankle), Kyle Kuzma – Out (Ribs), Malcolm Brogdon – Out (Hamstring), Tristan Vukcevic – Out (Knee), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Celtics Lead 5-0

The Boston Celtics travel to Washington to take on the struggling Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena. The Celtics are one of the NBA’s elite teams this season, averaging 120.2 points per game while holding opponents to 110.2 points. Led by Jayson Tatum’s 28.2 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, Boston is looking to extend their dominance against a Wizards team that ranks last in defensive efficiency and allows a league-worst 123.4 points per game.

Washington has endured a tough season, highlighted by a 12-game losing streak earlier in the year. Despite some strong individual performances from Jordan Poole, who leads the team with 20.2 points per game, the Wizards lack the depth and defensive intensity needed to compete with a powerhouse like Boston. Their recent 115-105 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers highlighted their inability to close out games, even when keeping contests close early.

Boston’s balanced attack, including contributions from Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis, should prove too much for the Wizards. With a strong defense and prolific offense, the Celtics are poised to cruise past Washington.

Prediction: Celtics def. Wizards 129-105

New York Knicks At Orlando Magic – 6:00 PM EST

Knicks Current Record: 15-10

Magic Current Record: 17-10

Knicks Injuries: Ariel Hukporti – Day To Day, Mitchell Robinson – Out (Ankle), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)

Magic Injuries: Jonathan Issac – Out (Hamstring), Gary Harris – Out (Hamstring), Paolo Banchero – Out (Oblique), Franz Wagner – Out (Oblique)

Last 5 Meetings: Magic Lead 3-2

The New York Knicks face the Orlando Magic at Amway Arena on Sunday in a potential playoff preview. The Knicks, riding on strong performances from Karl-Anthony Towns (24.9 points, 13.6 rebounds per game) and Jalen Brunson (24.7 points per game), are looking to rebound from a recent slump. However, their inconsistency on the boards remains a concern, as Towns often shoulders most of the rebounding load.

Orlando, despite its impressive record, is shorthanded with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner sidelined due to injuries. The Magic are leaning on Jalen Suggs, who scored 32 points in a recent game against the Bucks, and contributions from players like Moritz Wagner and Goga Bitadze. Orlando has thrived at home, boasting a 10-game home winning streak.

The Knicks will need to dominate the boards and establish their offensive rhythm early to secure a win. Conversely, the Magic will rely on their depth and home-court energy to keep the game close.

Prediction: Knicks def. Magic 118-115

Minnesota Timberwolves At San Antonio Spurs – 7:00 PM EST

Wolves Current Record: 13-11

Spurs Current Record: 13-12

Wolves Injuries: Joe Ingles – Out (Calf)

Spurs Injuries: Zach Collins – Day To Day (Back), Stephon Castle – Day To Day (Shoulder), Tre Jones – Out (Shoulder), Keldon Johnson – Out (Calf)

Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 3-2

The Minnesota Timberwolves face the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday in what promises to be an exciting Western Conference clash. The Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards‘ 26.2 points per game, boast one of the league’s most balanced rosters. Edwards’ scoring ability, coupled with Rudy Gobert’s dominance in the paint, has been crucial to Minnesota’s success. Gobert anchors a defense ranked among the NBA’s best, giving the Timberwolves an edge in limiting opponents’ efficiency.

The Spurs, on the other hand, rely heavily on Victor Wembanyama, who has been a force on both ends of the court, averaging 23.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 3.4 blocks per game. Despite injuries to key players like Keldon Johnson and Stephon Castle, Wembanyama’s ability to control the game remains a constant. San Antonio’s recent victory over Portland showcased their resilience, but inconsistency remains a challenge.

This matchup could be decided by defensive intensity, as Minnesota’s cohesion and ability to limit turnovers provide them with an advantage. While Wembanyama’s brilliance will keep the Spurs competitive, the Timberwolves’ depth and defensive discipline should prevail.

Prediction: Wolves def. Spurs 110-103

Portland Trail Blazers At Phoenix Suns – 8:00 PM EST

Blazers Current Record: 8-17

Suns Current Record: 13-11

Blazers Injuries: 8-17

Suns Injuries: Bradley Beal – Day To Day (Knee), Collin Gillespie – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Suns Lead 4-1

The Portland Trail Blazers visit the Phoenix Suns on Sunday in what promises to be an intriguing Western Conference matchup. The Blazers are looking to snap a five-game losing streak, while the Suns aim to continue their strong home performances at the Footprint Center.

Portland’s offense has struggled this season, averaging just 106.8 points per game. Led by Anfernee Simons and Jerami Grant, they will need a collective effort to exploit Phoenix’s occasional defensive lapses. However, the Blazers’ lack of consistency and challenges on the road make this a tough uphill battle.

The Suns, on the other hand, are powered by Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, who combine for one of the most dynamic scoring duos in the league. With a high-scoring output of 113.9 points per game, Phoenix’s offense is formidable, especially at home. The Suns have also enjoyed success in recent matchups against the Blazers, winning their last three meetings.

This game is likely to feature strong performances from Booker and Durant, and with their superior depth and offensive firepower, the Suns are expected to handle the Blazers.

Prediction: Suns def. Blazers 123-110

Dallas Mavericks At Golden State Warriors – 8:30 PM EST

Mavericks Current Record: 16-9

Warriors Current Record: 14-10

Mavericks Injuries: Maxi Kleber – Out (Rib), Jaden Hardy – Out (Ankle), Brandon Williams – Out (Thumb), Naji Marshall – Out (Illness), Dante Exum – Out (Wrist)

Warriors Injuries: Andrew Wiggins – Day To Day (Ankle), Stephen Curry – Day To Day (Ankle), De’Anthony Melton – Out (Knee), Mosed Moody – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Mavericks Lead 3-2

The Dallas Mavericks take on the Golden State Warriors in what promises to be an exciting Western Conference clash on Sunday. Both teams are eager to solidify their standings, with the Mavericks showcasing an impressive duo in Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Doncic, averaging 31.2 points and 8.6 assists per game, continues to lead Dallas with his offensive brilliance, while Irving complements him with efficient scoring and playmaking.

The Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, remain a potent offensive threat, especially at home. Curry has been in stellar form, averaging 30.1 points per game, and his ability to dictate the pace will be crucial for Golden State. The Warriors also rely on veteran presence from Draymond Green and sharpshooting from Buddy Hield to maintain balance.

Key factors in this matchup will be rebounding and turnovers. The Mavericks need to limit second-chance opportunities for the Warriors, while Golden State must focus on defensive intensity to slow down Dallas’ dynamic backcourt.

Given the Warriors’ home-court advantage and Curry’s consistency, they are well-positioned to edge out the Mavericks in a tightly contested game.

Prediction: Warriors def. Mavericks 123-118

Memphis Grizzlies At Los Angeles Lakers – 9:30 PM EST

Grizzlies Current Record: 18-8

Lakers Current Record: 13-12

Grizzlies Injuries: Jay Huff – Day To Day (Knee), Marcus Smart – Day To Day (Knee), Zach Edey – Out (Ankle), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Ankle)

Lakers Injuries: LeBron James – Day To Day (Foot), Anthony Davis – Day To Day (Foot), Jalen Hood-Schifino – Out (Hamstring), Jarred Vanderbilt – Out (Knee), Jaxson Hayes – Out (Ankle), Christian Wood – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Lakers Lead 3-2

The Memphis Grizzlies face the Los Angeles Lakers in a Western Conference showdown at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday night. The Grizzlies come into this matchup with an 18-8 record and are riding a four-game win streak. 

Behind the strong play of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane, Memphis boasts the league’s best-scoring offense, averaging 122.6 points per game. Their ability to control the boards, with the third-highest rebound average in the league, and their defensive prowess in blocking shots will be key against the Lakers.

The Lakers, sitting at 13-12, have struggled recently with injuries, including the uncertain availability of LeBron James. Anthony Davis remains the focal point, but the team has had difficulty finding consistency, particularly in rebounding and perimeter defense. Austin Reaves’ return adds some depth, but the Lakers will need strong contributions across the board to contend with Memphis’ high-powered attack.

If the Grizzlies maintain their offensive efficiency and dominate the glass, they are well-positioned to extend their win streak. Conversely, the Lakers must limit turnovers and rely on solid performances from Davis and their supporting cast to keep this game competitive.

Prediction: Grizzlies def. Lakers 121-112