NBA Daily Picks For November 13th, 2024: Lakers Are Favorites Against Grizzlies

After a challenging 2-6 night, our season record has dropped to 51-32, bringing our accuracy rate down to 61.4%. Tonight, we’re determined to bounce back with a solid performance as we dive into a loaded 11-game slate.

The action tips off with the Orlando Magic facing the Indiana Pacers in what promises to be an energetic showdown. The Brooklyn Nets then take on the Boston Celtics, while the New York Knicks battle the Chicago Bulls. The Philadelphia 76ers face the Cleveland Cavaliers in a marquee Eastern Conference clash, and the Oklahoma City Thunder go head-to-head with the New Orleans Pelicans.

Elsewhere, the Milwaukee Bucks match up against the Detroit Pistons, and the San Antonio Spurs look to make a statement against the Washington Wizards. The Houston Rockets square off against the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Los Angeles Lakers hit the court against the Memphis Grizzlies. To cap off the night, the Portland Trail Blazers face the Minnesota Timberwolves.

We’re ready to break down each game, aiming to get back on track with tonight’s exciting matchups.

Indiana Pacers At Orlando Magic – 7 PM EST

Pacers Current Record: 5-5

Magic Current Record: 6-6

Pacers Injuries: Obi Toppin – Day To Day (Ankle), Aaron Nesmith – Out (Ankle), Andrew Nembhard – Out (Knee), Isaiah Jackson – Out (Achilles), James Wiseman – Out (Achilles)

Magic Injuries: Wendell Carter Jr. – Out (Foot), Paolo Banchero – Out (Torn Oblique)

Last 5 Meetings: Magic Lead 3-2

The Indiana Pacers face the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night in what promises to be an intriguing NBA Cup matchup. The Pacers come into the game with momentum, winning three of their last four games behind stellar play from Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin. Haliburton is fresh off a season-best performance against the Knicks, scoring 35 points with 14 assists, while Mathurin added a career-high 38 points. Their offensive prowess has been a major factor in Indiana’s recent success.

The Magic, meanwhile, have adjusted to the absence of Paolo Banchero by relying on Franz Wagner, who has stepped up as the team’s primary scoring option, averaging 27.3 points in their last three wins. Orlando’s defense, one of the league’s best, has helped them remain competitive, allowing just 106.3 points per game. Despite both teams dealing with injuries, the Pacers’ firepower and recent form give them a slight edge in this highly anticipated game.

Prediction: Pacers def. Magic 119-112

Boston Celtics At Brooklyn Nets – 7:30 PM EST

Celtics Current Record: 9-3

Nets Current Record: 5-6

Celtics Injuries: Jaden Springer – Out (Knee), Kristaps Porzingis – Out (Foot)

Nets Injuries: Dorian Finney-Smith – Day To Day (Ankle), Trendon Watford – Out (Hamstring), Bojan Bogdanovic – Out (Foot), Day’Ron Sharpe – Out (Hamstring)

Last 5 Meetings: Celtics Lead 5-0

The Boston Celtics face the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday night in a key Atlantic Division matchup. The Celtics come into this game on a high, having won five of their last six games. Led by the dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Boston boasts one of the league’s top offenses, averaging over 120 points per game. 

Their three-point shooting and tight defensive rotations make them a formidable challenge for opponents, especially as they look to maintain their dominance over the Nets, having beaten them in their previous five meetings.

On the other side, the Nets, who recently edged out the New Orleans Pelicans, rely heavily on Cam Thomas’s scoring prowess. Thomas, averaging over 24 points per game, will be crucial if the Nets hope to keep pace with Boston’s offense. Brooklyn’s defense, ranked in the top 15, has shown resilience, particularly in defending the perimeter, which they’ll need to leverage against Boston’s three-point-heavy attack. 

While the Celtics are the clear favorites, the Nets have the talent and home-court energy to make this an exciting contest.

Prediction: Celtics def. Nets 128-114

Cleveland Cavaliers At Philadelphia 76ers – 7:30 PM EST

Cavaliers Current Record: 12-0

Sixers Current Record: 2-8

Cavaliers Injuries: Sam Merrill – Day To Day (Ankle), Jarrett Allen – Day To Day (Sixers), Max Strus – Out (Hip), Emoni Bates – Out (Knee)

Sixers Injuries: Tyrese Maxey – Out (Hamstring)

Last 5 Meetings: Sixers Lead 3-2

The Cleveland Cavaliers are on a historic start, entering this matchup with a perfect 12-0 record. With Donovan Mitchell leading the charge, Cleveland has shown incredible efficiency, averaging 122.5 points per game and shooting 52% from the field. Their roster depth, including Darius Garland’s playmaking and Jarrett Allen’s rebounding, has powered them through the season so far. The Cavaliers’ defense also complements their scoring, allowing just 110.5 points per game, giving them a clear edge in this contest.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers are still finding their rhythm at 2-8. While Tyrese Maxey has been a bright spot, averaging 27.6 points per game, the team has struggled with shooting consistency. Joel Embiid returned recently but looked out of sync in his first game, which could be a factor here, especially with Cleveland’s interior defense led by Allen and Evan Mobley. The Sixers will need a big game from their star players to keep pace with Cleveland’s high-powered offense.

With Cleveland’s momentum and Philadelphia’s ongoing adjustments, expect the Cavaliers to have a strong showing.

Prediction: Cavaliers def. Sixers 123-114

Chicago Bulls At New York Knicks – 7:30 PM EST

Bulls Current Record: 4-7

Knicks Current Record: 5-5

Bulls Injuries: Adama Sanago – Day To Day (Knee), Jalen Smith – Day To Day (Illness), Zach LaVine – Day To Day (Adductor), Lonzo Ball – Out (Wrist)

Knicks Injuries: Precious Achiuwa – Out (Hamstring), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee), Mitchell Robinson – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 3-2

The New York Knicks host the Chicago Bulls at Madison Square Garden in a matchup that highlights contrasting team strengths. The Knicks, led by stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, have consistently impressed with their efficient three-point shooting, making them a formidable team from deep. Defensively, they excel at slowing down opponents, which complements their methodical offensive pace. This will be crucial as they face a Bulls team that relies heavily on pushing the pace and quick scoring.

Chicago, despite a 4-7 record, remains competitive thanks to key players like Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic. The Bulls are known for their fast-paced style and have kept games close, even against tough opponents. However, their defense has been a challenge, allowing high shooting percentages, especially in the paint. For Chicago to cover the spread, they will need to limit New York’s interior scoring and capitalize on their transition game.

Expect a close game if the Bulls can maintain their defensive intensity, but the Knicks’ home-court advantage and efficient offense could prove decisive.

Prediction: Knicks def. Bulls 117-110

New Orleans Pelicans At Oklahoma City Thunder – 7:30 PM EST

Pelicans Current Record: 3-8

Thunder Current Record: 9-2

Pelicans Injuries: Jose Alvarado – Out (Hamstring), Zion Williamson – Out (Hamstring), Jordan Hawkins – Out (Back), Herbert Jones – Out (Shoulder), CJ McCollum – Out (Adductor), Dejounte Murray – Out (Hand)

Thunder Injuries: Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Jaylin Williams – Out (Hamstring), Isaiah Hartenstein – Out (Hand), Nikola Topic – Out (ACL)

Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 3-2

The Oklahoma City Thunder, hosting the New Orleans Pelicans, are heavily favored due to their strong recent form and New Orleans’ ongoing struggles. The Thunder, riding an impressive season start, have relied on standout performances from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who recently scored a career-high 45 points. 

His combination of scoring and playmaking has been key for Oklahoma City, complemented by Jalen Williams, who brings consistent contributions across the board. Despite some injuries, the Thunder’s depth has kept them competitive, especially at home.

For the Pelicans, the absence of multiple starters, including Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum, has hindered their performance. Brandon Ingram has shouldered much of the scoring load, averaging nearly 23 points per game. However, limited support and five straight losses put New Orleans in a challenging spot against a Thunder team excelling on both ends. Expect Oklahoma City’s balanced attack and home-court advantage to provide the edge in this matchup.

Prediction: Thunder def. Pelicans 121-113

Los Angeles Clippers at Houston Rockets – 8 PM EST

Clippers Current Record: 6-5

Rockets Current Record: 7-4

Clippers Injuries: Kawhi Leonard – Out (Knee), P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team)

Rockets Injuries: Jock Landale – Day To Day (Shoulder), Steven Adams – Day To Day (Knee), Fred VanVleet – Day To Day (Hamstring)

Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 4-1

The Los Angeles Clippers face the Houston Rockets in a clash that features two defensively focused teams with similar recent performances. The Rockets have been a surprise early in the season with Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green leading a young, energetic core. Houston’s defense has been their strength, allowing only 106.5 points per game, and they enter with a solid home record. Fred VanVleet’s potential absence could impact the Rockets’ backcourt depth, though Amen Thompson has stepped up in his place.

The Clippers, missing Kawhi Leonard, will look to James Harden and Norman Powell to drive the offense. Powell has been especially efficient, averaging 26 points on over 50% shooting from three, making him a key player for Los Angeles. The Clippers’ defense has been effective as well, ranked among the league’s top teams, but they’ll need to contain Sengun and Green to stay competitive.

Given both teams’ defensive strengths and slower paces, this matchup is likely to remain a low-scoring affair, with the Rockets’ home advantage providing a slight edge. Expect a close game, with Houston’s defense potentially tilting the scales in their favor.

Prediction: Rockets def. Clippers 118-113

Detroit Pistons At Milwaukee Bucks – 8 PM EST

Pistons Current Record: 5-7

Bucks Current Record: 3-8

Pistons Injuries: Tim Hardaway Jr. – Day To Day (Head), Ausar Thompson – Out (Illness), Bobi Klintman – Out (Calf)

Bucks Injuries: Ryan Rollins – Day To Day (Shoulder), Damian Lillard – Out (Concussion), Khris Middleton – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 5-0

The Milwaukee Bucks host the Detroit Pistons in an Eastern Conference showdown, with Milwaukee aiming to build on their recent win over the Toronto Raptors. Giannis Antetokounmpo leads the Bucks, who have struggled with consistency but are known for their dominance over the Pistons, having won 25 of their last 26 meetings. Despite recent shooting woes, Milwaukee’s defensive strength and home-court advantage could give them the edge in this matchup.

The Pistons, on the other hand, enter this game with momentum after a thrilling 123-121 overtime win over the Miami Heat. Led by Cade Cunningham, who has been impressive on both ends, the Pistons have shown improvement in recent games, particularly with their young core. They’ll look to capitalize on Milwaukee’s injury issues, as the Bucks may still be without Khris Middleton and Damian Lillard.

This game is expected to be a defensive battle, with both teams coming off a back-to-back. Milwaukee’s defense and recent dominance over Detroit give them a likely edge, but the Pistons’ recent form suggests they could keep it close, especially if Cunningham and Jaden Ivey perform well. Expect a lower-scoring, tightly contested game at Fiserv Forum.

Prediction: Pistons def. Bucks 113-110

Washington Wizards At San Antonio Spurs – 8 PM EST

Wizards Current Record: 2-7

Spurs Current Record: 5-6

Wizards Injuries: Richaun Holmes – Day To Day (Illness), Malcolm Brogdon – Out (Thumb), Saddiq Bey – Out (Knee)

Spurs Injuries: Malaki Branham – Day To Day (Ankle), Tre Jones – Out (Ankle), Jeremy Sochan – Out (Fracture)

Last 5 Meetings: Wizards Lead 3-2

The San Antonio Spurs host the Washington Wizards in a Western Conference battle at Frost Bank Center, with San Antonio aiming to capitalize on home-court advantage. Led by rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs have been strong defensively, holding opponents to 107.3 points per game, while Wembanyama averages 20 points and 10.5 rebounds. 

On the other side, the Washington Wizards have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 121.8 points per game. Their scoring efforts have largely depended on Jordan Poole and Kyle Kuzma, but the team has been inconsistent. 

The Spurs’ strong defense and Washington’s recent struggles suggest San Antonio could take this game by a solid margin. Look for Wembanyama and the Spurs’ defense to make a significant impact, likely leading to a comfortable win for San Antonio.

Prediction: Spurs def. Wizards 121-112

Memphis Grizzlies At Los Angeles Lakers – 10 PM EST

Grizzlies Current Record: 7-4

Lakers Current Record: 6-4

Grizzlies Injuries: Brandon Clarke – Day To Day (Toe), Desmond Bane – Out (Oblique), Marcus Smart – Out (Ankle), Vince Willaims Jr. – Out (Lower Leg), Ja Morant (Hip), Cam Spencer – Out (Ankle), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot)

Lakers Injuries: Jaxson Hayes – Day To Day (Ankle), D’Angelo Russell – Day To Day (Illness), Anthony Davis – Day To Day (Foot), Christian Wood – Out (Knee), Jalen Hood-Schifino – Out (Groin), Jarred Vanderbilt – Out (Foot)

Last 5 Meetings: Lakers Lead 3-2

The Los Angeles Lakers are set to host the Memphis Grizzlies in an intriguing matchup at Crypto.com Arena. Despite injuries to Ja Morant and Desmond Bane, Memphis remains competitive, with Jaren Jackson Jr. and Santi Aldama stepping up in recent games. Jackson’s efficient scoring and Aldama’s rebounding prowess give the Grizzlies an inside presence, though they may struggle against a Lakers team bolstered by Anthony Davis’ potential return.

The Lakers are undefeated against the spread at home this season, with LeBron James in excellent form, fresh off consecutive triple-doubles. Austin Reaves continues to shine as a secondary scoring option, contributing across the board with scoring, assists, and defensive efforts. With Davis probable, the Lakers’ interior defense and scoring will likely be challenging for the short-handed Grizzlies.

Given the Grizzlies’ injury challenges and the Lakers’ strong home record, Los Angeles looks positioned to win, especially if Davis plays. Expect a competitive game, but the Lakers’ depth and star power may ultimately secure the win.

Prediction: Lakers def. Grizzlies 123-115

Minnesota Timberwolves At Portland Trail Blazers – 10 PM EST

Wolves Current Record: 6-5

Blazers Current Record: 4-8

Wolves Injuries: N/A

Blazers Injuries: Anfernee Simons – Day To Day, Deandre Ayton – Out (Finger), Matisse Thybulle – Out (Knee)

Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 4-1

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Portland Trail Blazers face off in a quick rematch following a game just the night before, where the Trail Blazers pulled off a surprise 122-108 victory. Minnesota’s offense has shown firepower, led by Anthony Edwards, who is averaging over 28 points per game this season. Julius Randle adds another layer of scoring and playmaking, providing the Timberwolves with depth in their offensive schemes.

On the other side, Portland has struggled with consistency but managed an efficient shooting night, particularly from beyond the arc, in their recent win. Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons are crucial for the Trail Blazers’ offensive success, and their contributions will be pivotal if Portland wants to secure another victory. The Timberwolves’ defense, though, remains a challenge for opposing teams, especially around the perimeter.

Minnesota aims to regain form and minimize turnovers, which were costly in their previous matchup. This game could be a closely contested affair as both teams adjust and respond to each other’s strategies.

Phoenix Suns At Sacramento Kings – 10 PM EST

Suns Current Record: 9-2

Kings Current Record: 6-5

Suns Injuries: Bradley Beal – Day To Day (Calf), Jusuf Nurkic – Out (Ankle), Collin Gillespie – Out (Ankle), Kevin Durant – Out (Calf)

Kings Injuries: Malik Monk – Out (Ankle)

Last 5 Meetings: Suns Lead 3-2

The Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings face off in what promises to be a high-stakes clash. The Suns are adjusting to life without Kevin Durant, placing more weight on Devin Booker and Bradley Beal to drive their offense. Booker, showing impressive playmaking skills, combined with Beal’s scoring, should provide the Suns with a potent backcourt despite Durant’s absence. Jusuf Nurkic’s presence in the paint will be pivotal as he aims to counter Sacramento’s frontcourt strength.

Sacramento, with its explosive offense, is led by De’Aaron Fox, Domantas Sabonis, and DeMar DeRozan. Their balanced attack will challenge the Suns’ defense, especially in transition and inside the paint. The Kings also have the advantage of depth, with contributors like Malik Monk adding offensive versatility off the bench. Sacramento’s recent win over Phoenix, where they showed resilience in overtime, gives them a confidence boost coming into this matchup.

This game could go down to the wire, with both teams bringing contrasting strengths. The Suns’ disciplined defense and Booker’s scoring will keep them competitive, while Sacramento’s balanced offense and home-court advantage might just tip the scales in their favor. Expect a closely contested game.

Prediction: Kings def. Suns 121-115