NBA Daily Picks For Jan 23rd, 2025: Celtics Face Lakers In Battle Of Historic Rivals

After a 3-2 performance in our last round of predictions, our season record now stands at 271-149, with an accuracy rate of 64.5%. Tonight, we’re tackling a massive 9-game slate, featuring exciting matchups across the league. 

The night begins with the San Antonio Spurs facing the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers’ fast-paced offense should have the upper hand against the struggling Spurs.

The Portland Trail Blazers visit the Orlando Magic in a game that favors the Magic. The Toronto Raptors take on the Atlanta Hawks in what promises to be a tightly contested Eastern Conference clash. 

In another marquee Eastern Conference matchup, the Miami Heat face the Milwaukee Bucks. The Dallas Mavericks meet the Oklahoma City Thunder in a thrilling Western Conference showdown. 

The Sacramento Kings visit the Denver Nuggets in a battle of two of the league’s most in-form teams. 

The Chicago Bulls take on the Golden State Warriors in a matchup where both teams are desperate for consistency. The Boston Celtics host the Los Angeles Lakers in a storied rivalry. 

Finally, the Washington Wizards visit the Los Angeles Clippers in a game heavily favoring the Clippers. 

Let’s aim for a strong rebound and build momentum with tonight’s loaded slate.

San Antonio Spurs At Indiana Pacers – 2:00 PM EST

Spurs Current Record: 19-22

Pacers Current Record: 24-19

Spurs Injuries: Jeremy Sochan – Out (Back), Riley Minx – Out (Shoulder)

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

Last 5 Meetings: Spurs Lead 3-2

The San Antonio Spurs and Indiana Pacers are set to face off in a unique international showcase at the Accor Arena in Paris, France. The Spurs, led by French phenom Victor Wembanyama, will enjoy a “homecoming” atmosphere, while the Pacers look to maintain their red-hot start to 2025, having won 8 of their last 9 games.

The Spurs enter the matchup struggling, with three consecutive losses and six defeats in their last seven games. Despite their inconsistencies, Wembanyama has been a force, averaging 24.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 4.1 blocks per game. His ability to control the paint on both ends will be critical against a Pacers team that thrives on high-paced offense.

Indiana has been on a roll, with Tyrese Haliburton orchestrating one of the league’s most efficient offenses. Complemented by Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner, the Pacers’ balanced attack has allowed them to dominate both ends of the court in recent weeks. However, they’ll need to contend with Wembanyama’s defensive presence, especially around the rim.

While the Pacers have been the better team this season, the energy of the Paris crowd could inspire Wembanyama and the Spurs to elevate their play.

Prediction: Pacers def. Spurs 121-110

Portland Trail Blazers At Orlando Magic – 7:00 PM EST

Blazers Current Record: 15-28

Magic Current Record: 23-22

Blazers Injuries: Kris Murray – Day To Day (Chest), Toumani Camara – Day To Day (Illness), Deandre Ayton – Day To Day )Knee), Anfernee Simons – Day To Day (Back), Donovan Clingan – Out (Ankle), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Ankle)

Magic Injuries: Moritz Wagner – Out (ACL), Gary Harris – Out (Hamstring), Jett Howard – Out (Ankle), Goga Bitadze – Out (Concussion), Franz Wagner – Out (Oblique), Jalen Suggs – Out (Back), Cole Anthony – Day To Day (Illness), Jonathan Issac – Day To Day (Illness),

Last 5 Meetings: Magic Lead 4-1

The Orlando Magic host the Portland Trail Blazers in what should be a competitive matchup at the Kia Center. Both teams enter this game with contrasting trajectories but are eager to snap their recent struggles. The Magic are battling inconsistency with a four-game losing streak, while the Trail Blazers are looking to build on a modest two-game winning run.

The Magic rely heavily on Paolo Banchero, who has been their most consistent performer, averaging 25.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. However, injuries to key contributors like Franz Wagner have exposed Orlando’s lack of offensive depth, especially as they rank last in points per game this season. Their defense, ranked second in the NBA in points allowed, will be the key to offsetting their offensive struggles.

For Portland, Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe lead a balanced scoring attack, contributing 18.2 and 18.0 points per game, respectively. Despite a poor overall record, the Trail Blazers have shown resilience on the road, and their improving defense may give them a chance against an undermanned Magic roster.

Prediction: Blazers def. Magic 110-103

Toronto Raptors At Atlanta Hawks – 7:30 PM EST

Raptors Current Record: 11-32

Hawks Current Record: 22-21

Raptors Injuries: Ochai Agbaji – Out (Hand), Immanuel Quickley – Out (Hip)

Hawks Injuries: Zaccharie Risacher – Out (Adductor), Larry Nance Jr. – Out (Hand), Cody Zeller – Out (Personal), Kobe Bufkin – Out (Shoulder)

Last 5 Meetings: Hawks Lead 3-2

The Toronto Raptors travel to Atlanta to face the Hawks at State Farm Arena in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. Both teams have shown flashes of strong play recently, with the Raptors winning three of their last four and the Hawks emerging victorious in four of their last six games. Despite their improved form, Toronto remains near the bottom of the standings and faces a stiff test against a dynamic Atlanta offense.

For the Raptors, RJ Barrett and Scottie Barnes lead the charge, combining for over 42 points per game. Jakob Poeltl has been dominant on the boards, pulling down 10.4 rebounds per contest, but the team struggles with consistency on both ends of the floor. They’ll need a complete performance to keep pace with an Atlanta team averaging 116.7 points per game.

The Hawks, led by Trae Young, are formidable offensively. Young’s league-leading 11.7 assists per game fuels a high-octane offense, while Jalen Johnson’s emergence as a strong contributor on the wing has provided additional scoring and rebounding support. Defensively, however, Atlanta’s struggles remain evident, as they rank near the bottom of the league in points allowed and three-point defense.

Prediction: Hawks def. Raptors 123-110

Miami Heat At Milwaukee Bucks – 7:30 PM EST

Heat Current Record: 21-21

Bucks Current Record: 24-17

Heat Injuries: Keshad Johnson – Day To Day (Shoulder), Tyler Herro – Day To Day (Groin), Josh Richardson – Out (Heel), Dru Smith – Out (Achilles)

Bucks Injuries: AJ Green – Day To Day (Quad), Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day, Khris Middleton – Day To Day (Ankles), MarJon Beauchamp – Day To Day (Illness)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 4-1

The Miami Heat will face the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum in a key Eastern Conference matchup. The Heat are battling to climb back above .500 but have struggled recently, losing four of their last five games. Meanwhile, the Bucks have been dominant, winning seven of their last eight contests and building momentum as one of the East’s top teams.

Miami’s offense will be tested in this matchup, especially with Jimmy Butler suspended and Tyler Herro potentially sidelined. Rookie Kel’el Ware has stepped up in recent games, offering energy in the paint, while Bam Adebayo continues to anchor the team on both ends. However, they’ll need strong contributions from role players like Duncan Robinson and Nikola Jovic to have a chance against Milwaukee.

The Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, are in excellent form. Giannis is playing at an MVP level, dominating inside with his scoring and rebounding. Damian Lillard has been a consistent scoring threat, giving Milwaukee a lethal offensive duo. The Bucks’ depth and experience make them tough to beat, especially at home.

Prediction: Bucks def. Heat 118-104

Dallas Mavericks At Oklahoma City Thunder – 8:00 PM EST

Mavericks Current Record: 23-21

Thunder Current Record: 36-7

Mavericks Injuries: Jaden Hardy – Day To Day (Ankle), Naji Marshall – Out (Illness), Klay Thompson – Out (Illness), Dante Exum – Out (Wrist), Dereck Lively II – Out (Foot), Dwight Powell – Out (Hip), Luka Doncic – Out (Calf)

Thunder Injuries: Isaiah Joe – Out (Illness), Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Isaiah Hartenstein – Out (Hip), Nikola Topic – Out (Knee), Ajay Mitchell – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 3-2

The Oklahoma City Thunder, the best team in the Western Conference, take on the Dallas Mavericks in what promises to be a competitive divisional showdown. The Thunder have been dominant this season, led by MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been averaging over 31 points per game. OKC is fresh off a convincing win against Cleveland, showcasing their depth and resilience, even with injuries to key players like Chet Holmgren.

The Mavericks, meanwhile, have been plagued by injuries. Luka Dončić remains sidelined, and Kyrie Irving’s status is questionable. Despite these setbacks, Dallas managed a gritty victory over the Thunder earlier this season, thanks to balanced contributions from players like P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford. However, replicating that success without their full roster will be a challenge against OKC’s elite defense and potent offense.

The Thunder’s strong ball movement, relentless defense, and consistent scoring make them favorites in this matchup. For Dallas to have a chance, they will need to dominate the boards and rely on Irving to provide a spark.

Prediction: Thunder def. Mavericks 119-110

Sacramento Kings At Denver Nuggets – 9:00 PM EST

Kings Current Record: 23-20

Nuggets Current Record: 27-16

Kings Injuries: N/A

Nuggets Injuries: Vlakto Cancar – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Kings Lead 3-2

The Sacramento Kings and Denver Nuggets clash in a high-stakes Western Conference matchup at Ball Arena. Sacramento enters this contest riding a strong wave of momentum, winning nine of their last ten games. Led by De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, the Kings have showcased excellent offensive chemistry, with Sabonis providing dominance on the boards and Fox leading with dynamic scoring and playmaking.

Meanwhile, the Nuggets continue to thrive behind the brilliance of Nikola Jokic, who is averaging a near triple-double this season with 30.1 points, 13.2 rebounds, and 9.9 assists per game. Denver’s offense has been firing on all cylinders, complemented by the sharpshooting of Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Additionally, the Nuggets have been formidable at home with a 13-8 record, a statistic they’ll look to leverage against the Kings.

Sacramento’s balanced attack will test Denver’s defensive discipline, but the Kings may struggle to contain Jokic’s multifaceted offensive game. While the Kings are on a roll, Denver’s home-court advantage and depth give them the upper hand.

Prediction: Nuggets def. Kings 121-115

Chicago Bulls At Golden State Warriors – 10:00 PM EST

Bulls Current Record: 19-25

Warriors Current Record: 21-22

Bulls Injuries: Ayo Dosunmu – Day To Day (Calf), Coby White – Day To Day (Ankle), Chris Duarte – Day To Day (Personal), Jevon Carter – Day To Day (Illness)

Warriors Injuries: Kevon Looney – Out (Illness), Brandin Podziemski – Out (Abdomen), Kyle Anderson – Out (Hip), Draymond Green – Out (Calf), Jonathan Kuminga – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Warriors Lead 3-2

The Chicago Bulls visit the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Center in what promises to be a competitive clash between two teams fighting for play-in tournament positioning. Both squads are looking to gain traction in their respective conferences, with the Bulls coming off a confidence-boosting 112-99 win over the Clippers, while the Warriors recently fell short against the Kings, 123-117.

The Bulls have been leaning on Zach LaVine’s scoring brilliance, as he poured in 35 points in their latest win. Josh Giddey continues to contribute all-around excellence, nearly securing a triple-double in Los Angeles. Nikola Vucevic’s dominance inside has also been pivotal, and his strong play will be critical against Golden State’s weakened frontcourt, which is missing key players like Draymond Green and Jonathan Kuminga.

On the Warriors’ side, Stephen Curry remains the engine of the offense, averaging an impressive 28.9 points per game. However, Golden State’s struggles with depth and consistency have been evident, particularly as they try to find scoring beyond Curry and Andrew Wiggins. Trayce Jackson-Davis and Dennis Schroder will need to step up to keep the Warriors competitive.

This game could hinge on Chicago’s size advantage and rebounding dominance, as well as the Warriors’ ability to connect from beyond the arc.

Prediction: Bulls def. Warriors 114-109 

Boston Celtics At Los Angeles Lakers – 10:00 PM EST

Celtics Current Record: 31-13

Lakers Current Record: 23-18

Celtics Injuries: Kristaps Porzingis – Day To Day (Illness), Al Horford – Day To Day (Toe), Jrue Holiday – Day To Day (Shoulder)

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

Last 5 Meetings: Celtics Lead 3-2

The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers reignite their historic rivalry tonight at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The Celtics, coming off a thrilling overtime victory over the Clippers, aim to cap off their back-to-back in L.A. with another win. The Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, are looking to extend their strong home record of 15-6.

Boston has been a dominant force this season, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the way. Tatum, averaging 27.4 points per game, has been a two-way star, while Kristaps Porzingis adds size and scoring versatility. However, this marks Boston’s third game in four nights, which could test their endurance and rotation depth.

The Lakers, on the other hand, are finding form, winning three of their last four games. Anthony Davis has been a dominant presence on both ends, averaging 25.7 points and 11.9 rebounds per game, while LeBron James continues to be a playmaking force, orchestrating the offense.

This matchup could come down to which team wins the battle in the paint and controls the pace. While the Lakers’ home court gives them an edge, Boston’s depth and offensive firepower should be enough to secure a hard-fought victory.

Prediction: Celtics def. Lakers 115-110

Washington Wizards At Los Angeles Clippers – 10:30 PM EST

Wizards Current Record: 6-36

Clippers Current Record: 24-19

Wizards Injuries: Malcolm Brogdon – Out (Foot), Marvin Bagley III – Out (Knee), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Clippers Injuries: Nicolas Batum – Out (Finger), James Harden – Out (Groin), Kris Dunn – Out (Knee), Norman Powell – Out (Back), Kawhi Leonard – Out (Knee), Ivica Zubac – Out (Eye), P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 5-0

The Los Angeles Clippers host the struggling Washington Wizards at the Intuit Dome tonight. The Clippers are coming off a tough loss to the Boston Celtics and will aim to rebound against the Wizards, who are on an 11-game losing streak. While the Clippers have faced injury setbacks, including Kawhi Leonard and James Harden potentially missing another game, their depth and overall talent should give them a significant edge.

The Wizards have been one of the league’s weakest teams this season, particularly on the road, where they hold a dismal 1-18 record. Their defense has been a glaring issue, allowing 124.2 points per game during their current skid, while their offense has struggled to keep pace, averaging just 105.8 points per contest. Jordan Poole leads the Wizards with 21.4 points per game, but inconsistent support from the rest of the roster has hampered their competitiveness.

Even with key injuries, the Clippers boast a deeper lineup and a strong home-court record (15-7). Norman Powell and their defensive efforts will likely be too much for the Wizards to handle. Expect Los Angeles to capitalize on Washington’s defensive struggles and secure a comfortable win.

Prediction: Clippers def. Wizards 118-102