NBA Daily Picks For December 26th, 2024: Thunder Look To Dominate Struggling Pacers

After a tough 1-4 outing in last night’s predictions, our season record now stands at 175-105, with an accuracy rate of 62.5%. Tonight, we’re determined to bounce back with a 9-game slate featuring plenty of exciting matchups.

The night begins with the Oklahoma City Thunder facing the Indiana Pacers, where the Thunder’s elite defense will look to contain the high-scoring Pacers. Meanwhile, the Miami Heat take on the Orlando Magic in a heated Florida rivalry.

In another game, the Charlotte Hornets meet the Washington Wizards in a matchup of two struggling teams trying to find momentum. The Chicago Bulls clash with the Atlanta Hawks, where the Bulls’ inconsistency will be tested against Atlanta’s balanced attack.

Elsewhere, the Brooklyn Nets face the Milwaukee Bucks in a marquee Eastern Conference showdown. The Toronto Raptors visit the Memphis Grizzlies, where Ja Morant and the Grizzlies’ physicality will look to overcome Toronto’s versatile lineup.

Out West, the Houston Rockets meet the New Orleans Pelicans, with the Pelicans eager to capitalize on their size and skill advantage. The Utah Jazz take on the Portland Trail Blazers, with both teams seeking to climb the standings. Finally, the Detroit Pistons face the Sacramento Kings, where the Kings’ offense will aim to outshine the struggling Pistons.

Let’s dive into these matchups and aim for a much-improved performance tonight.

Oklahoma City Thunder At Indiana Pacers – 7:00 PM EST

Thunder Current Record: 23-5

Pacers Current Record: 15-15

Thunder Injuries: Branden Carlson – Out (Concussion), Alex Caruso – Out (Hip), Alex Ducas – Out (Back), Adam Flagler – Out (Metacarpal), Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Nikola Topic – Out (ACL)

Pacers Injuries: Myles Tuner – Day To Day (Oblique), Aaron Nesmith – Out (Ankle), Isaiah Jackson – Out (Achilles), James Wiseman – Out (Achilles0

Last 5 Meetings: Pacers Lead 3-2

The Oklahoma City Thunder face the Indiana Pacers on the road in a matchup of two red-hot teams. The Thunder are riding an eight-game win streak, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s remarkable play, including a 41-point performance against the Washington Wizards in their previous outing. Oklahoma City boasts the league’s top defense, allowing just 103.1 points per game while ranking first in opponent field goal percentage.

Indiana has clawed its way back to .500 with a five-game win streak, fueled by strong performances from Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton. Despite averaging 118.6 points per game during this stretch, the Pacers struggle defensively, allowing 115.9 points per game (22nd in the NBA). Myles Turner’s presence in the paint is key for Indiana, but his status is questionable, which could impact their ability to protect the rim.

This game features a clash of styles: Oklahoma City’s defensive dominance versus Indiana’s offensive firepower. The Thunder’s ability to limit fastbreak opportunities and their consistency on both ends should give them an edge.

Prediction: Thunder def. Pacers 118-108

Miami Heat At Orlando Magic – 7:00 PM EST

Heat Current Record: 14-13

Magic Current Record: 19-12

Heat Injuries: Terry Rozier – Day To Day (Knee), Jimmy Butler – Day To Day (Personal), Josh Richardson – Out (Heel), Dru Smith – Out (Achilles)

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

Last 5 Meetings: Magic Lead 3-2

The Orlando Magic host the Miami Heat in an exciting Southeast Division clash at the Kia Center. The Magic are looking to extend their two-game winning streak after impressive victories over the Boston Celtics and the Heat earlier this month. Despite dealing with injuries to key players like Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero, Orlando has maintained its defensive identity, boasting the best defensive rating in the Eastern Conference and allowing just 103.5 points per game.

On the other side, the Miami Heat recently ended a three-game skid with a win over the Brooklyn Nets. Tyler Herro continues to lead Miami with his offensive contributions, averaging 23.9 points per game, while Bam Adebayo provides stability on both ends of the floor. The Heat’s offense has shown improvement, averaging 122.7 points over their last four games, but their defense remains inconsistent, allowing 109 points per game.

This matchup will be pivotal for the Southeast Division standings, with both teams vying for control. While Orlando’s defense will look to stifle Miami’s offense, the Heat’s experience and versatility could give them an edge.

Prediction: Heat def. Magic 112-109

Charlotte Hornets At Washington Wizards – 7:00 PM EST

Hornets Current Record: 7-22

Wizards Current Record: 4-23

Hornets Injuries: N/A

Wizards Injuries: Alexandre Sarr – Day To Day (Back), Bilal Coulibaly – Day To Day (Groin), Kyle Kuzma – Out (Ribs), Marvin Bagley III – Out (Knee), Carlon Carrington – Day To Day (Side), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Wizards Lead 3-2

The Washington Wizards host the Charlotte Hornets at the Capital One Arena in a matchup of two struggling Eastern Conference teams. The Wizards have endured a tough season, sitting at the bottom of the league standings, while the Hornets, on a five-game losing streak, are only slightly better off.

The Wizards’ offensive woes are evident, averaging just 107.4 points per game while allowing a league-worst 122.2 points. Jordan Poole has been a lone bright spot, leading the team with 21.2 points and 5.1 assists per game. However, Washington’s defensive struggles and injuries to key players like Kyle Kuzma and Jonas Valanciunas have significantly hindered their performance.

The Hornets, despite getting LaMelo Ball back earlier in the season, have not capitalized on his return. With Ball and other key players like Tre Mann out, Charlotte’s offense, averaging 106.4 points per game, has been underwhelming. Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller have stepped up but lack consistent support.

While neither team has momentum, the Wizards’ home-court advantage and a previous win against the Hornets earlier this season could give them an edge in what promises to be a closely contested game.

Prediction: Wizards def. Hornets 113-110

Chicago Bulls At Atlanta Hawks – 7:30 PM EST

Bulls Current Record: 13-17

Hawks Current Record: 15-15

Bulls Injuries: Lonzo Ball – Day To Day (Illness), Ayo Dosunmmu – Day To Day (Achilles), Josh Giddey – Out (Ankle)

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

Last 5 Meetings: Bulls Lead 4-1

The Atlanta Hawks host the Chicago Bulls at State Farm Arena on December 26, 2024, in a matchup of Eastern Conference rivals. The Hawks are looking to build on a home win against the Minnesota Timberwolves, while the Bulls aim to bounce back from a loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Hawks, led by Trae Young and Jalen Johnson, have been inconsistent this season. Young averages 21.8 points and 12 assists per game, while Johnson contributes 19.4 points and 10.1 rebounds. Despite strong offensive output, the Hawks’ defensive lapses have been a concern, as they allow 119 points per game. Atlanta’s struggles in maintaining consistency have kept them hovering around the .500 mark.

Conversely, the Bulls have faced challenges in defensive efficiency, allowing 123.9 points per game, and ranking near the bottom of the league. Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic have been key contributors, with LaVine averaging 19.7 points and Vucevic adding 23.4 points over his last five road games. However, injuries to Vucevic and other players have hampered Chicago’s momentum.

This game promises to be a high-scoring affair, with both teams excelling offensively but struggling on defense. While the Hawks hold the edge at home, the Bulls have shown resilience on the road.

Prediction: Hawks def. Bulls 121-117

Brooklyn Nets At Milwaukee Bucks – 8:00 PM EST

Nets Current Record: 11-18

Bucks Current Record: 16-12

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

Bucks Current Record: Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Back), Khris Middleton – Day To Day (Ankle), AJ Johnson – Out (Illness), Chris Livingston – Out (Illness), Damian Lillard – Out (Calf)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 4-1

The Milwaukee Bucks host the Brooklyn Nets at Fiserv Forum on December 26, 2024. They aim to extend their strong home form, which has seen them win three consecutive games.

The Nets, meanwhile, are struggling with consistency, losing eight of their last ten contests. Brooklyn’s offense has been a challenge, averaging just 101.6 points per game over the past ten outings. Cameron Johnson has been their most reliable scorer, contributing 19.6 points per game, while Nic Claxton provides strength on the boards. However, their defense has failed to contain opponents, allowing 113.3 points per game.

Milwaukee, on the other hand, is buoyed by strong performances from Giannis Antetokounmpo, who averages 25.1 points and 9.4 rebounds, and Damian Lillard, adding 25.7 points and 7.5 assists per game. The Bucks’ defense has been solid, holding opponents to an average of 105.8 points over their last ten games.

The Nets’ lack of offensive firepower and defensive lapses make it difficult to see them stopping Milwaukee’s momentum, especially on the road.

Prediction: Bucks def. Nets 119-110

Toronto Raptors At Memphis Grizzlies – 8:00 PM EST

Raptors Current Record: 7-23

Grizzlies Current Record: 20-10

Raptors Injuries: Jamal Shead – Day To Day (Knee), Jakob Poeltl – Out (Groin), Bruce Brown – Out (Knee), Immanuel Quickley – Out (Elbow)

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

Last 5 Meetings: Grizzlies Lead 3-2

The Toronto Raptors travel to Memphis to face the Grizzlies at FedExForum in what promises to be a battle of contrasting fortunes. The Raptors are on an eight-game losing streak and have struggled on the road this season, managing just one win away from home. Their recent defensive lapses were evident in a 139-125 loss to the Knicks, where Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett delivered strong performances but couldn’t compensate for the team’s overall struggles.

Meanwhile, the Memphis Grizzlies have established themselves as one of the top teams in the Western Conference. Led by Jaren Jackson Jr., Ja Morant, and Desmond Bane, the Grizzlies combine a potent offense with strong defensive capabilities. Their ability to dominate the paint and force turnovers has been a cornerstone of their success, and they boast an impressive 13-4 home record.

Toronto will rely on Barnes and Barrett to keep them competitive, but Memphis’ depth and home-court advantage make them the clear favorites. The Raptors’ inability to defend consistently and their road woes create a steep uphill battle.

Prediction: Grizzlies def. Raptors 125-110

Houston Rockets At New Orleans Pelicans – 8:00 PM EST

Rockets Current Record: 20-9

Pelicans Current Record: 5-25

Rockets Injuries: Tari Eason – Out (Leg), Dillon Brooks – Out (Ankle)

Pelicans Injuries: Javonte Green – Day To Day (Knee), Trey Murphy III – Day To Day (Ankle), Karlo Matkovic – Out (Back), Jose Alvarado – Out (Hamstring), Brandon Ingram – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Rockets Lead 3-2

The Houston Rockets visit the struggling New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. The Rockets enter this game riding high on a three-game winning streak, showcasing their depth and versatility. Key performances from players like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun have fueled Houston’s success. Their strong defense, allowing just 108.1 points per game over the last ten contests, has been a cornerstone of their performance.

In contrast, the Pelicans are enduring a tough season with a seven-game losing streak. Despite solid contributions from CJ McCollum and Yves Missi, injuries to key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram have severely hampered their ability to compete. The Pelicans have struggled defensively, allowing 120.5 points per game over their last ten outings.

Houston’s balanced approach on both ends of the floor, combined with New Orleans’ defensive struggles and depleted roster, gives the Rockets a clear advantage. Look for the Rockets to control the game tempo and dominate the boards.

Prediction: Rockets def. Pelicans 120-112

Utah Jazz At Portland Trail Blazers – 10:00 PM EST

Jazz Current Record: 7-21

Blazers Current Record: 9-20

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

Blazers Injuries: Robert Williams III – Day To Day (Ankle), Dalano Banton – Day To Day (Hip), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Jazz Lead 4-1

The Utah Jazz visit the Portland Trail Blazers in a matchup between Northwest Division rivals. Both teams are enduring challenging seasons and will aim to secure a morale-boosting win at the Moda Center.

Utah comes into the game having won two of its last three contests, buoyed by Jordan Clarkson’s return and the continued strong play of Lauri Markkanen and Collin Sexton. In their previous meeting this season, the Jazz dominated Portland 141-99, with an impressive offensive showcase led by Markkanen and John Collins. However, consistency remains a concern for the Jazz, particularly on the defensive end.

Portland, led by Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe, has struggled recently, losing their last two games. Despite talented guards and DeAndre Ayton anchoring the interior, the Blazers have yet to find a rhythm on either end of the floor. Defensive lapses and offensive inefficiencies have plagued their season.

Given Utah’s strong frontcourt presence and Portland’s struggles to contain big men, the Jazz have a slight edge in this contest. If Markkanen and Clarkson can replicate their previous success against the Blazers, Utah could notch another road win.

Prediction: Jazz def. Blazers 118-110

Detroit Pistons At Sacramento Kings – 10:00 PM EST

Pistons Current Record: 13-17

Kings Current Record: 13-17

Pistons Injuries: Ronald Holland II – Day To Day (Illness), Jalen Duren – Day To Day (Ankle), Isaiah Stewart – Out (Knee)

Kings Injuries: Domantas Sabonis – Day To Day (Illness)

Last 5 Meetings: Kings Lead 3-2

The Detroit Pistons visit the Sacramento Kings at the Golden 1 Center in a matchup between two evenly matched teams aiming to improve their season trajectories.

The Pistons are riding high on a two-game win streak, having recently defeated the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns. Cade Cunningham has been instrumental, averaging 23.9 points and 9.7 assists per game, with key contributions from Jaden Ivey and Malik Beasley. Detroit’s defense has shown improvement, causing problems for their opponents in recent games, and their rebounding strength, led by Jalen Duren, has been a significant factor.

Meanwhile, the Kings are looking to end a four-game losing streak. De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis remain their main offensive threats, with Fox averaging 26.2 points and Sabonis contributing 21.1 points and 13.5 rebounds per game. However, Sacramento’s inconsistent defensive performances and struggles in the second half of games have hindered their success.

This game is poised to be competitive, with the Pistons’ momentum clashing against the Kings’ home-court advantage. Detroit’s recent form and balanced play give them a slight edge.

Prediction: Kings def. Pistons 119-112