NBA Daily Picks For December 23rd, 2024: Suns Face Nuggets In Blockbuster Clash In The West

After a tough 4-9 outing last time, our season record has fallen to 166-95, bringing our accuracy rate to 63.6%. Tonight, we’re determined to bounce back strong with a massive 14-game slate, featuring intriguing matchups across the league.

The evening tips off with the Utah Jazz taking on the league-best Cleveland Cavaliers, where the Jazz face a daunting challenge against Cleveland’s dominance. Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics clash with the tough and resurgent Orlando Magic, a team capable of testing the Celtics with their defensive grit.

The Houston Rockets meet the struggling Charlotte Hornets, with Houston looking to capitalize on the Hornets’ lack of form. In another matchup, the San Antonio Spurs aim to add to the Philadelphia 76ers’ woes, with both teams eager to turn their seasons around.

The Minnesota Timberwolves face the Atlanta Hawks in what promises to be a competitive clash between two in-form teams. Elsewhere, the Brooklyn Nets take on the Miami Heat.

The Toronto Raptors face the New York Knicks in a battle of playoff hopefuls, while the Milwaukee Bucks square off against the Chicago Bulls in a Central Division showdown. The Los Angeles Clippers then take on the Memphis Grizzlies, with both teams trying to find momentum.

In other action, the Washington Wizards face the Oklahoma City Thunder, where OKC will look to dominate with their stellar defense. Meanwhile, the Portland Trail Blazers face the red-hot Dallas Mavericks, with Luka Doncic continuing to lead the Mavericks’ offensive charge.

The Phoenix Suns meet the Denver Nuggets in a marquee Western Conference showdown, with both teams looking to solidify their positions at the top. In a fast-paced game, the Indiana Pacers face the Golden State Warriors, with Indiana’s offense clashing against the Warriors’ veteran leadership.

Finally, the Detroit Pistons take on the Los Angeles Lakers, with the Lakers aiming to continue their resurgence and the Pistons desperate to end their prolonged slump.

Let’s dive into these games and aim for a big rebound in tonight’s predictions.

Utah Jazz At Cleveland Cavaliers – 7:00 PM EST

Jazz Current Record: 7-20

Cavaliers Current Record: 25-4

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

Cavaliers Injuries: Same Merrill – Day To Day (Quad), Issac Okoro – Out (Shoulder)

Last 5 Meetings: Cavaliers Lead 4-1

The Cleveland Cavaliers are set to face the Utah Jazz at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on December 24, 2024. The Cavaliers lead the Eastern Conference, boasting a potent offense averaging 121.6 points per game and excelling in shooting efficiency. Meanwhile, the Jazz, despite consecutive wins, struggle with consistency and rank near the bottom of the Western Conference.

Cleveland is riding a four-game winning streak, highlighted by a dominant 126-99 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. Darius Garland and Evan Mobley lead a balanced attack, with Donovan Mitchell adding scoring punch. The Cavaliers’ home-court dominance (16-1 record) and elite shooting from beyond the arc make them heavy favorites. Defensively, Jarrett Allen anchors the paint, and their transition defense is among the league’s best.

Utah has shown improvement recently with wins over Detroit and Brooklyn, but their defense remains a concern, allowing 119.3 points per game. Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George lead the team offensively, but the Jazz lack depth and defensive consistency. The absence of Taylor Hendricks and Keyonte George’s questionable status further complicates their chances.

The Cavaliers’ high-powered offense and defensive discipline will likely overwhelm the Jazz, especially at home.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Jazz 123-104

Boston Celtics At Orlando Magic – 7:00 PM EST

Celtics Current Record: 22-6

Magic Current Record: 18-12

Celtics Injuries: Sam Hauser – Out (Back)

Magic Injuries: Jalen Suggs – Day To Day (Ankle), Gary Harris – Out (Hamstring), Mortiz Wagner – Out (ACL), Paolo Banchero – Out (Oblique), Franz Wagner – Out (Oblique)

Last 5 Meetings: Magic Lead 3-2

The Boston Celtics visit the Orlando Magic at the Kia Center in a battle between one of the NBA’s best teams and a rising Eastern Conference contender. The Celtics have been dominant this season, fueled by the stellar play of Jayson Tatum, who is averaging 28.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis have provided strong support, making Boston’s offense one of the most efficient in the league.

The Magic, however, have been formidable at home with an 11-2 record. Franz Wagner leads the team with 24.4 points per game, while Jalen Suggs and Goga Bitadze provide solid contributions on both ends. Orlando’s defense, ranked second in the league, will face its toughest test against Boston’s dynamic scoring options.

This matchup will likely be decided by Boston’s offensive firepower against Orlando’s stifling defense. If the Magic can slow down the Celtics’ stars, they could make this a close contest. However, Boston’s experience and depth might prove too much for Orlando to handle.

Prediction: Celtics def. Magic 123-118

Houston Rockets At Charlotte Hornets – 7:00 PM EST

Rockets Current Record: 19-9

Hornets Current Record: 7-21

Rockets Injuries: Tari Eason – Out (Leg)

Hornets Injuries: N/A

Last 5 Meetings: Rockets Lead 3-2

The Houston Rockets face off against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte. This marks the second meeting of the season between these teams, with the Hornets taking the first game in Houston. The Rockets, riding a two-game winning streak, aim to avenge their opening-night loss. Meanwhile, the Hornets look to snap their four-game skid at home.

Houston’s balanced attack has been spearheaded by Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Dillon Brooks. Sengun has been particularly dominant, averaging a double-double with 18.7 points and 10.5 rebounds. The Rockets also benefit from the steady playmaking of Fred VanVleet, who adds veteran stability to the backcourt. Despite injury concerns for Tari Eason, Houston’s depth remains a strength.

The Hornets, led by LaMelo Ball’s 30.4 points and 7.5 assists per game, have struggled defensively, allowing 113 points per game. Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges contribute offensively, but Charlotte’s inability to contain opposing scorers has been a recurring issue.

The Rockets’ improved defense and rebounding edge give them a significant advantage in this matchup.

Prediction: Hornets def. Rockets 117-109

San Antonio Spurs At Philadelphia 76ers – 7:00 PM EST

Spurs Current Record: 15-13

Sixers Current Record: 9-17

Spurs Injuries: N/A

Sixers Injuries: Eric Gordon – Out (Face), Ricky Council IV – Out (Knee), Jared McCain – Out (Meniscus)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 4-1

The San Antonio Spurs travel to face the Philadelphia 76ers in a cross-conference clash at the Wells Fargo Center. The Spurs are riding high after a dominant 114-94 win over the Portland Trail Blazers, led by Victor Wembanyama’s impressive 30-point, 10-assist performance. The 76ers, however, are looking to bounce back from a crushing 136-99 defeat against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

San Antonio has been fueled by Wembanyama’s all-around brilliance, as he leads the league in blocks (3.8) and averages a team-high 24.7 points and 10 rebounds. Guard Devin Vassell and forward Jeremy Sochan also provide critical scoring and defensive support, making the Spurs a formidable opponent.

Philadelphia, despite its struggles, can rely on Tyrese Maxey’s scoring prowess (25.1 PPG) and the veteran leadership of Paul George. Joel Embiid, playing through a sinus fracture, will be key as the Sixers try to establish a physical presence inside.

With Wembanyama in stellar form and the Spurs’ recent momentum, this game has the potential to be a closely contested battle.

Prediction: Spurs def. Sixers 115-110

Minnesota Timberwolves At Atlanta Hawks – 7:30 PM EST

Wolves Current Record: 14-13

Hawks Current Record: 14-15

Wolves Injuries: Daishen Nix – Day To Day (Ankle), Joe Ingles – Out (Calf), Luka Garza – Out (Ankle)

Hawks Injuries: Cody Zeller – Out (Personal), Onyeka Okongwu – Out (Knee), Kobe Bufkin – Out (Shoulder), Bogdan Bogdanovic – Day To Day (Leg), Trae Young – Day To Day (Heel)

Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 3-2

The Minnesota Timberwolves visit the Atlanta Hawks at the State Farm Arena for an intriguing matchup. Minnesota boasts one of the best defenses in the league, allowing just 106.6 points per game, ranking fourth overall. The Timberwolves are led by Anthony Edwards, who is averaging 25.6 points per game while shooting 44.8% from beyond the arc. However, their offensive struggles—ranking 24th in points per game—might limit their ability to exploit Atlanta’s defensive weaknesses.

The Hawks, on the other hand, rely on their high-paced offense, which averages 116.1 points per game, ranking eighth in the league. However, their defense has been a major concern, allowing 119.4 points per game. 

Trae Young, questionable for this matchup with a heel injury, is the key to Atlanta’s offense. If he plays, his scoring and playmaking could give the Hawks an edge. Atlanta will also need strong performances from Jalen Johnson and Dyson Daniels to compete against Minnesota’s tough defense.

With Trae Young’s status uncertain, Atlanta’s prospects will depend on their supporting cast stepping up. Meanwhile, Minnesota’s defensive discipline and Anthony Edwards’ scoring will be crucial.

Prediction: Wolves def. Hawks 112-106

Brooklyn Nets At Miami Heat – 7:30 PM EST

Nets Current Record: 9-17

Heat Current Record: 13-13

Nets Injuries: Dorian Finney-Smith – Day To Day (Calf), Cam Thomas – Out (Hamstring), Ziarie Williams – Out (Knee), Trendon Watford – Out (Hamstring), Bojan Bogdanovic – Out (Foot)

Heat Injuries: Kevin Love – Day To Day (Personal), Jimmy Butler – Day To Day (Illness), Josh Richardson – Out (Heel)

Last 5 Meetings: Nets Lead 3-2

The Miami Heat look to end a three-game losing streak as they host the struggling Brooklyn Nets at the Kaseya Center. Miami’s recent losses to the Magic, Thunder, and Pistons highlighted inconsistencies on both ends of the floor, but they remain a formidable defensive team, allowing just 109.9 points per game this season. 

Tyler Herro continues to lead the Heat with 24.2 points per game, while Bam Adebayo has been a force on the boards, averaging a double-double. Jimmy Butler’s availability remains a question mark, but his presence would add a significant boost.

The Nets enter this matchup amidst a rebuilding phase, having lost five of their last seven games. Key injuries to players like Cameron Thomas and Bojan Bogdanovic have severely limited their offensive production. Ben Simmons and Nicolas Claxton are bright spots for Brooklyn, but the team’s poor rebounding and lack of offensive firepower will be challenges against Miami’s disciplined defense.

Miami has been solid at home this season and should have enough depth and defense to overcome a depleted Nets squad.

Prediction: Heat def. Nets 114-106

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

Raptors Current Record: 7-22

Knicks Current Record: 18-10

Raptors Injuries: RJ Barrett – Day To Day (Illness), Jakob Poeltl – Out (Groin), Bruce Brown – Out (Knee), Immanuel Quickley – Out (Elbow)

Knicks Injuries: Mitchell Robinson – Out (Foot), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Nets Lead 4-1

The New York Knicks host the Toronto Raptors at Madison Square Garden in a matchup of two Atlantic Division rivals heading in opposite directions. The Knicks are surging, winning eight of their last ten games, while the Raptors are struggling, having lost seven straight. New York’s recent success is fueled by strong defensive play, ranking third in the NBA in defensive rating over their last ten games.

Jalen Brunson continues to lead the Knicks with consistent scoring, and the team’s depth, including Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges, has helped maintain their momentum. New York’s balanced attack and ability to dictate the pace, combined with their defensive tenacity, make them a tough opponent at home, where they boast an 8-4 record.

Meanwhile, the Raptors have been plagued by injuries, including key players like RJ Barrett and Jakob Poeltl. Toronto’s offense has struggled to find consistency, and their defensive efforts have been insufficient to stop high-caliber opponents.

Given the Raptors’ struggles and the Knicks’ strong form, New York should have little trouble securing a win at home.

Prediction: Knicks def. Raptors 119-110

Milwaukee Bucks At Chicago Bulls – 8:00 PM EST

Bucks Current Record: 15-12

Bulls Current Record: 13-16

Bucks Injuries: Chris Livingston – Day To Day (Illness), Khris Middleton – Day To Day (Ankle), Damian Lillard – Day To Day (Calf), Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Back)

Bulls Injuries: Josh Giddey – Day To Day (Ankle), Torrey Craig – Day To Day (Achilles)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 3-2

The Milwaukee Bucks head to the United Center to take on the Chicago Bulls in what promises to be an intriguing Central Division clash. Milwaukee is coming off a solid 112-101 win over the Washington Wizards, despite missing key players Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, who are expected to return for this matchup. Bobby Portis stepped up with 34 points in their absence, showcasing the depth of the Bucks’ roster.

The Bucks’ road form, however, has been inconsistent, with a 4-8 record away from Fiserv Forum. Milwaukee’s recent success from beyond the arc—hitting double-digit three-pointers in three of their last four games—could be pivotal against a Chicago team that struggles defensively and on the boards.

The Bulls, on the other hand, are looking to bounce back after a blowout loss to the Boston Celtics. Chicago has shown flashes of competitiveness, led by Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, but their issues with rebounding and defensive lapses remain glaring. At 4-10 at home, the Bulls will need a near-perfect performance to keep up with the Bucks’ firepower.

If Antetokounmpo and Lillard suit up, Milwaukee’s balanced offense and defensive edge should be too much for Chicago to handle.

Prediction: Bucks def. Bulls 115-108

Washington Wizards At Oklahoma City Thunder – 8:00 PM EST

Wizards Current Record: 4-22

Thunder Current Record: 22-5

Wizards Injuries: Bilal Coulibaly – Day To Day (Groin), Kyle Kuzma – Out (Ribs), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Thunder Injuries: Alex Ducas – Out (Back), Adam Flagler – Out (Metcarpal), Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Nikola Topic – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 4-1

The Oklahoma City Thunder host the Washington Wizards at the Paycom Center in what appears to be a lopsided matchup. The Thunder are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, boasting a seven-game winning streak. Their latest victory, a 104-97 triumph over the Miami Heat, showcased Jalen Williams’ season-high 33 points and the defensive resilience that has defined their campaign.

On the other hand, the Wizards are at the bottom of the league standings and deep into a rebuild. Their recent 112-101 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks highlighted familiar issues: inconsistent offense and porous defense. Jordan Poole and Bilal Coulibaly are bright spots, but without Kyle Kuzma and Saddiq Bey, their depth is stretched thin.

Oklahoma City’s dynamic backcourt, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and their solid defensive setup should make this a straightforward game. The Thunder are expected to control the pace and dominate both ends of the floor, likely resting their starters in the final quarter.

Prediction: Thunder def. Wizards 125-98.

Los Angeles Clippers At Memphis Grizzlies – 8:00 PM EST

Clippers Current Record: 16-13

Grizzlies Current Record: 20-9

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

Grizzlies Injuries: Marcus Smart – Out (Finger), Jay Huff – Out (Ankle), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Ankle), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 3-2

The Memphis Grizzlies welcome the Los Angeles Clippers to the FedExForum in what could be an electrifying Western Conference matchup. Memphis, riding a hot streak of eight wins in their last 10 games, sits second in the West. Meanwhile, the Clippers are holding the eighth seed and continue to perform admirably despite missing Kawhi Leonard.

The Grizzlies are proving to be an offensive powerhouse, averaging 127.1 points per game in their last 10 contests. Ja Morant and Desmond Bane have been pivotal in this surge, and the team has excelled in efficiency, shooting nearly 50% from the field during this stretch. Defensively, Memphis also ranks high, allowing just 112.9 points per game, which could challenge the Clippers’ offense.

For Los Angeles, James Harden and Norman Powell have stepped up in Leonard’s absence, combining for over 46 points per game. The Clippers’ defense, which ranks fifth in the league, will need to be at its best to contain Memphis’ high-scoring unit. However, their inconsistent road performance, coupled with Memphis’ strong 10-4 record at home, could pose challenges.

The Grizzlies’ combination of firepower and recent dominance at home makes them a tough opponent for the Clippers.

Prediction: Grizzlies def. Clippers 118-112

Portland Trail Blazers At Dallas Mavericks – 8:30 PM EST

Blazers Current Record: 9-19

Mavericks Current Record: 18-10

Blazers Injuries: Dalano Banton – Out (Hip), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle)

Mavericks Injuries: Brandon Williams – Out (Thumb), Jaden Hardy – Out (Ankle), Luka Doncic – Out (Heel), Dante Exum – Out (Wrist)

Last 5 Meetings: Mavericks Lead 5-0

The Dallas Mavericks face the Portland Trail Blazers at the American Airlines Center in what appears to be a one-sided matchup. Dallas has been in excellent form this season, climbing to 4th in the Western Conference. Even without Luka Doncic, who remains questionable for this game, the Mavericks have demonstrated their depth. Key contributors like Kyrie Irving, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Klay Thompson have kept the team competitive, showcasing a potent offensive and defensive balance.

On the other hand, the Trail Blazers have struggled throughout the season, sitting near the bottom of the West standings. With a poor road record, Portland has been unable to find consistency, particularly on the offensive end. Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons have been bright spots, but the team’s lack of defensive intensity and inability to compete against higher-caliber teams has been their downfall.

Dallas has dominated this matchup in recent years, winning the last five meetings. With the Mavericks’ superior form and home-court advantage, they should comfortably handle the Trail Blazers.

Prediction: Mavericks def. Blazers 121-110

Phoenix Suns At Denver Nuggets – 10:00 PM EST

Suns Current Record: 14-13

Nuggets Current Record: 15-11

Suns Injuries: Bol Bol – Out (Knee), Collin Gillespie – Out (Ankle), Grayson Allen – Out (Concussion)

Nuggets Injuries: Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Suns Lead 4-1

The Phoenix Suns visit the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena for the first of two matchups in a mini-series that concludes on Christmas Day. Phoenix looks to bounce back after consecutive losses to the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons. Meanwhile, Denver comes into this game riding the momentum of a thrilling overtime win against the New Orleans Pelicans, improving to 15-11 and holding fifth place in the Western Conference.

The Suns will once again rely on Kevin Durant, who dropped 43 points in their last outing. With Devin Booker sidelined due to a groin injury, Bradley Beal and Tyus Jones will need to step up as secondary scorers. Despite their offensive prowess, the Suns have struggled defensively, allowing 133 points to Detroit in their most recent game. Containing Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray will be crucial for Phoenix to stay competitive.

The Nuggets, led by Jokic’s 11th triple-double of the season, have proven to be formidable at home. However, the quick turnaround after their overtime game could leave them vulnerable against a Suns team eager to reclaim form.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Suns 123-112

Indiana Pacers At Golden State Warriors – 10:00 PM EST

Pacers Current Record: 14-15

Warriors Current Record: 15-12

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

Warriors Injuries: Draymond Green – Day To Day (Ankle), Moses Moody – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Pacers Lead 4-1

The Indiana Pacers travel to the Chase Center to face the Golden State Warriors in a Western Conference showdown. The Pacers, fresh off a dominant 122-95 victory over the Sacramento Kings, are riding a four-game win streak, showcasing a rejuvenated offense and cohesive team play. Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam have been pivotal, with their scoring and playmaking sparking Indiana’s resurgence.

Golden State, on the other hand, has been inconsistent, splitting their last ten games and struggling defensively in recent matchups. While they managed a solid 113-103 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves in their last outing, questions remain about their ability to contain opponents, particularly from beyond the arc—a strength for the Pacers.

The Warriors will look to lean heavily on Stephen Curry, who continues to excel offensively, but the potential absence of Draymond Green could disrupt their defensive schemes. Indiana’s pace and three-point efficiency pose a significant challenge to Golden State’s shaky defense.

Prediction: Warriors def. Pacers 123-117

Detroit Pistons At Los Angeles Lakers – 10:30 PM EST

Pistons Current Record: 12-17

Lakers Current Record: 16-12

Pistons Injuries: Isaiah Stewart – Out (Knee)

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

Last 5 Meetings: Lakers Lead 4-1

The Los Angeles Lakers host the Detroit Pistons at the Crypto.com Arena in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Lakers are on a three-game winning streak, most recently securing a gritty 103-99 victory against the Sacramento Kings. 

LeBron James was instrumental, dropping 32 points and providing clutch leadership, while D’Angelo Russell added 20 points. The Lakers’ defense has been their backbone, limiting opponents’ scoring runs and holding teams to 113.7 points per game this season.

Meanwhile, the Pistons arrive with renewed confidence after a high-scoring 133-125 road win against the Phoenix Suns. Cade Cunningham’s all-around brilliance (28 points and 13 assists) fueled Detroit’s performance, complemented by strong three-point shooting. However, consistency has eluded the Pistons, who are 12-17 this season and rank near the bottom in defensive efficiency.

The Lakers’ ability to control the tempo and rely on their star power gives them an edge, but the Pistons’ young core, led by Cunningham, is capable of making this a close contest.

Prediction: Lakers def. Pistons 124-114