NBA Game Picks & Analysis
Chicago Bulls vs. Charlotte Hornets
NBA Matchup Preview: Chicago Bulls vs. Charlotte Hornets
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina | Time: Sunday, 1 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Bulls -9
BOTTOM LINE:
The Chicago Bulls are expected to cover the -9 spread as they host the struggling Charlotte Hornets. With a stronger offense and better turnover control, Chicago should win by a wide margin.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Bulls (35-42, 10th in the Eastern Conference) have been competitive in conference play, going 24-23 overall and 15-8 when winning the turnover battle. They average 117.6 points per game, showing offensive consistency. In contrast, the Hornets (19-58, 14th in the Eastern Conference) have struggled in conference games, posting a 10-38 record and giving up 113.8 points per game.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Chicagoâs offensive edge is clearâthey force opponents into turnovers and can exploit mismatches. The Bulls allow 13.6 made 3-pointers per game, while they themselves give up only 13.1, indicating a slight perimeter advantage. Over the last 10 games, the Bulls have been impressive, averaging 124.5 points per game while shooting 50.0% from the field, compared to the Hornetsâ 104.0 points on 44.9% shooting. This scoring gap suggests that the Bulls will build a significant lead and cover the -9 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For Chicago, Coby White is averaging 20.5 points and shooting 45.1%, while Kevin Huerter contributes with 2.5 made 3-pointers per game. For Charlotte, Miles Bridges leads with 20.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, and DaQuan Jeffries adds 10.4 points over the last 10 games.
INJURIES:
The Hornets are without Grant Williams (out for season, ACL), Brandon Miller (out for season, wrist), LaMelo Ball (out for season, ankle), and Tre Mann (out for season, back), among others. The Bulls are missing Ayo Dosunmu (out for season, shoulder), with Lonzo Ball (day-to-day, wrist) and Tre Jones (out, foot) also on the injury report.
Toronto Raptors vs. Brooklyn Nets
NBA Matchup Preview: Toronto Raptors vs. Brooklyn Nets
Location: New York | Time: Sunday, 3:30 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Raptors -2
BOTTOM LINE:
The Toronto Raptors are expected to cover the -2 spread as they look to rebound from a three-game losing streak against the struggling Brooklyn Nets.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Raptors (28-50, 11th in the Eastern Conference) have had a challenging season but have shown flashes of potential, especially against Atlantic Division teams (record of 7-8). They average 110.6 points per game while shooting 45.7% from the field. In contrast, the Nets (25-52, 12th in the Eastern Conference) have been poor at home, with an 11-25 record. Brooklyn struggles with turnovers, averaging 13.7 per game, which further hampers their offensive rhythm.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Defensively, the Raptors hold an edge by allowing only 12.9 made 3-pointers per gameâ1.2 fewer than the Nets give up. This slight advantage on the perimeter, combined with their ability to rebound and control tempo, should help Toronto keep the game within a narrow margin. With the Netsâ continued struggles on offense and inconsistency in close games, the Raptors are well-positioned to cover the modest -2 spread and possibly win by double digits.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For Brooklyn, Nic Claxton averages 10.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks, while Keon Johnson contributes 13.4 points per game over the last 10 games. For Toronto, Scottie Barnes leads with 18.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 1.5 steals, with Jamal Shead adding 11.3 points in recent contests.
LAST 10 GAMES:
The Nets are 3-7, averaging 102.5 points per game on 42% shooting, while the Raptors are 4-6, averaging 108.1 points per game on 43.6%.
INJURIES:
The Nets miss Noah Clowney (out for season, ankle), DeâAnthony Melton (out for season, ACL), and Cam Thomas (out for season, hamstring). The Raptors are without Ulrich Chomche, Brandon Ingram, and Gradey Dick, with RJ Barrett and Ochai Agbaji listed as day-to-day.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
NBA Matchup Preview: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Location: Houston (Thunder’s home) | Time: Friday, 8 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Thunder -9
BOTTOM LINE:
The Oklahoma City Thunder are expected to cover the -9 spread as they look to extend their impressive six-game home win streak against the Los Angeles Lakers.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Thunder (64-12, first in the Western Conference) have been dominant in conference play, boasting a 35-11 record. They excel on the offensive glass and inside scoring, averaging strong numbers with key contributions from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. In contrast, the Lakers (46-30, third in the Western Conference) have struggled on the road with a 32-14 record. Although they perform well in the paintâaveraging 48.3 points per game led by LeBron Jamesâtheir inconsistency in close contests (4-6 in games decided by less than 4 points) gives OKC an advantage.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
The Thunder are shooting 48.1% from the field, which is 1.8 percentage points higher than the 46.3% that the Lakers allow. This efficiency has been key to their recent success. Additionally, the Lakersâ offense scores an average of 113.2 points per game, about 6 points fewer than the 119.2 points the Thunder have allowed over the season. These numbers suggest that the Thunderâs balanced scoring and disciplined defense will enable them to build a significant lead and cover the -9 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads OKC with 32.8 points, 6.3 assists, and 1.7 steals, while Isaiah Joe contributes 14.1 points over the last 10 games. For the Lakers, key players include LeBron James and Anthony Davis, though their recent road struggles may limit their effectiveness.
INJURIES:
The Thunder are dealing with minor issues, including Aaron Wiggins (day-to-day, achilles) and Ousmane Dieng (day-to-day, calf). The Lakers are missing Maxi Kleber (out, foot) and continue to battle other day-to-day injuries.
Utah Jazz vs. Atlanta Hawks
NBA Matchup Preview: Utah Jazz vs. Atlanta Hawks
Location: Atlanta | Time: Sunday, 6 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Hawks -12.5
BOTTOM LINE:
The Atlanta Hawks are expected to cover the -12.5 spread as they host the struggling Utah Jazz, who have lost eight straight on the road.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Hawks (36-41, eighth in the Eastern Conference) have been solid at home with a 19-19 record. They excel in fast-break scoring, averaging 16.8 points per game in transition, led by Jalen Johnson, who contributes 3.7 fast-break points. In contrast, the Jazz (16-62, 15th in the Western Conference) have been poor on the road, allowing opponents to score 120.6 points per game and getting outscored by an average of 9.2 points.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Atlantaâs defensive efficiency is a key factor. The Hawks allow 14.7 made 3-pointers per game, slightly higher than the 13.3 that they themselves make, exposing a weakness in Utahâs perimeter defense. The Hawksâ overall offensive game is strong, and they have shown the ability to control the pace and force turnovers. With the Jazz struggling to maintain consistency on the road and their opponents averaging 124.7 points in recent games, the Hawks are well-positioned to build a significant lead and cover the -12.5 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For Atlanta, Trae Young averages 24.0 points, 11.6 assists, and provides excellent playmaking. Zaccharie Risacher has been in good form recently, averaging 16.2 points over the last 10 games. For Utah, Walker Kessler is averaging 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks, while Collin Sexton contributes 15.9 points.
INJURIES:
The Hawks are missing Larry Nance Jr., Kobe Bufkin, and Clint Capela, with Jacob Toppin day-to-day and Jalen Johnson out for the season. The Jazz have several key players out or day-to-day, further tilting the matchup in Atlantaâs favor.
Washington Wizards vs. Boston Celtics
NBA Matchup Preview: Washington Wizards vs. Boston Celtics
Location: Boston | Time: Sunday, 6 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Celtics -21
BOTTOM LINE:
The Boston Celtics are expected to cover the -21 spread as they host the struggling Washington Wizards. With their dominant performance on both ends of the court, Boston should win by a large margin.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Celtics (57-20, second in the Eastern Conference) have been one of the leagueâs elite teams, posting a 35-12 record in conference games. They excel on offense and defense, ranking eighth in the NBA with 45.1 rebounds per game, led by Jayson Tatum who averages 8.7 boards. In contrast, the Wizards (17-60, 15th in the Eastern Conference) have been one of the worst teams in the league, with a 14-33 record in conference play and a 9-31 record against teams over .500. The Wizardsâ struggles on both ends of the floor make them highly vulnerable.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Bostonâs potent offense averages 117.8 points per game over the last 10 contests, while holding opponents to just 106.2 points. Their efficient shootingâaveraging 47.8% from the fieldâcombined with strong perimeter play (making 17.8 three-pointers per game) puts them in a position to dominate. Conversely, the Wizards average only 107.1 points per game on 44.8% shooting, highlighting their offensive inefficiency. This significant disparity suggests that the Celtics will build a large lead, easily covering the -21 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For Boston, Jayson Tatum is averaging 26.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, and six assists, while Kristaps Porzingis adds 16.7 points and 5.8 rebounds over the last 10 games. The Wizards have struggled, with Jordan Poole averaging 20.6 points and Bub Carrington contributing 2.1 made 3-pointers per game.
INJURIES:
The Wizards are without key players such as Saddiq Bey, Bilal Coulibaly, and Corey Kispert, with others day-to-day. The Celtics are dealing with minor issues, with Kristaps Porzingis listed as day-to-day.
Sacramento Kings vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
NBA Matchup Preview: Sacramento Kings vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
Location: Cleveland | Time: Sunday, 6 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Cavaliers -10.5
BOTTOM LINE:
The Cleveland Cavaliers are expected to cover the -10.5 spread as they look to extend their three-game win streak against the struggling Sacramento Kings.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Cavaliers (62-15, first in the Eastern Conference) have been dominant at home, boasting a 33-5 record and ranking eighth in the league by scoring 51.2 points in the paint, led by Evan Mobley averaging 11.7 rebounds. In contrast, the Kings (37-40, 10th in the Western Conference) are 18-21 on the road and have struggled defensively, allowing 115.6 points per game while holding opponents to 47.2% shooting.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Clevelandâs offensive efficiency is a key factor, as they shoot 49.2% from the fieldâ2.0 percentage points higher than the 47.2% that the Kings allow. Additionally, the Cavaliers outscore their opponents by an average of 5.7 points per game (122.4 vs. 116.7). This gap, combined with their superior rebounding and ball movement, should allow the Cavaliers to build a sizable lead over a Kings team that has been inconsistent on the road.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For Cleveland, Evan Mobley is averaging 18.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.6 blocks, while Donovan Mitchell is contributing 20.7 points over the last 10 games. For Sacramento, Domantas Sabonis leads with 19.1 points and 14.0 rebounds, and Keegan Murray is adding 2.9 made 3-pointers per game over the past 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES:
The Cavaliers are 6-4, averaging 120.3 points per game on 49.2% shooting, while the Kings are 3-7, averaging 111.1 points per game on 47.2% shooting.
INJURIES:
The Cavaliers are dealing with Dean Wade (day-to-day, illness) and Ty Jerome (day-to-day, knee), while the Kings are without Jake LaRavia (out, thumb).
San Antonio Spurs vs. Portland Trail Blazers
NBA Matchup Preview: Portland Trail Blazers vs. San Antonio Spurs
Location: Portland, Oregon | Time: Sunday, 6 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Blazers -2
BOTTOM LINE:
The Portland Trail Blazers are expected to cover the -2 spread as they host the San Antonio Spurs. With improved ball control and a balanced offensive attack, Portland looks poised to overcome its struggles on the road.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Trail Blazers (34-44, 12th in the Western Conference) have been inconsistent in conference play, holding a 17-31 record. However, when they win the turnover battle, their performance improves; they are 20-14 in games with fewer turnovers than opponents, averaging 15.0 turnovers per game. In contrast, the Spurs (32-45, 13th in the Western Conference) are 21-27 in conference contests. San Antonio is eighth in the West, averaging 114.0 points per game and shooting 46.5%.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Offensively, the Trail Blazers score 110.9 points per game, which is 5.7 points lower than the 116.6 points the Spurs allow. Defensively, Portland restricts opponents to 12.7 made 3-pointers per game, compared to the 14.1 that the Spurs average. This slight edge on the perimeter, combined with improved ball movement, should allow the Blazers to cover the -2 spread. Recent form supports this outlook, as Portland is competitive in games when they control turnovers and execute well on offense.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For Portland, Deni Avdija averages 16.9 points while shooting 47.6%, and Shaedon Sharpe has been reliable from beyond the arc, averaging 2.2 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games. For the Spurs, Chris Paul averages 8.8 points with 7.6 assists, and Devin Vassell is contributing with 3.1 made 3-pointers per game in recent contests.
INJURIES:
The Trail Blazers are without Bryce McGowens (out for season, rib), Deandre Ayton (out, calf), and Robert Williams III (out, knee), while several players remain day-to-day. The Spurs miss De’Aaron Fox (out for season, hand) and Victor Wembanyama (out for season, shoulder), with Jeremy Sochan day-to-day (back).
Phoenix Suns vs. New York Knicks
NBA Matchup Preview: Phoenix Suns vs. New York Knicks
Location: New York | Time: Sunday, 7 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Knicks -8.5
BOTTOM LINE:
The New York Knicks are expected to cover the -8.5 spread as they look to secure their 50th win of the season against the Phoenix Suns.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Knicks (49-28, third in the Eastern Conference) have been strong at home with a 26-12 record and excel in rebounding, averaging 10.9 offensive boards per game led by Karl-Anthony Towns (3.0 per game). In contrast, the Suns (35-42, 11th in the Western Conference) have struggled on the road with a 12-27 record. Phoenix also averages 13.2 turnovers per game, making it easier for the Knicks to capitalize on mistakes.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Offensively, the Knicks score 116.2 points per game, just 0.5 points lower than the 116.7 points the Suns allow, which underscores their ability to control the pace. Although the Suns shoot 48.0% from the fieldâ0.7 percentage points higher than the 47.3% opponents of the Knicksâthe overall consistency of New Yorkâs play gives them a crucial edge. This combination of effective defense, rebounding, and offensive balance positions the Knicks well to build a sizeable lead and cover the -8.5 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For the Knicks, Karl-Anthony Towns averages 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, while OG Anunoby has been prolific with 25.8 points over the last 10 games. For the Suns, Tyus Jones is averaging 10.4 points and 5.5 assists, and Devin Booker contributes 25.1 points and 4.1 rebounds.
INJURIES:
The Knicks are missing Ariel Hukporti (out, knee) and have Miles McBride, Jalen Brunson, and Mitchell Robinson listed as day-to-day. The Suns are without Kevin Durant (out, ankle).
Indiana Pacers vs. Denver Nuggets
NBA Matchup Preview: Indiana Pacers vs. Denver Nuggets
Location: Denver | Time: Sunday, 8 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Nuggets -6
BOTTOM LINE:
The Denver Nuggets are expected to cover the -6 spread as they look to extend their strong home performance, even as the Pacers try to build on a recent win streak.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Nuggets (47-31, fourth in the Western Conference) have been solid at home with a 25-14 record. They excel in limiting turnovers, averaging just 13.7 turnovers per game, and win 17-8 when controlling the ball. Meanwhile, the Pacers (46-31, fourth in the Eastern Conference) are 19-20 on the road and score an average of 117.4 points per game while shooting 49.2%. Although Indiana has shown some offensive prowess, their inconsistency on the road could prove problematic against a disciplined Denver team.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Defensively, the Nuggets hold a slight edge. They allow opponents to shoot 47.5% from the field, while the Pacersâ opponents average 48.1%. The Nuggetsâ perimeter defense is effective too: they allow 12.9 made 3-pointers per game, only 0.7 more than the 12.2 the Pacers surrender. With recent form favoring Denver (4-6 in their last 10 games, averaging 117.1 points, compared to the Pacersâ 8-2 run with 122.9 points), the overall picture suggests the Nuggets can build a lead and cover the -6 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For the Nuggets, Nikola Jokic is a powerhouse, averaging 29.8 points, while Michael Porter Jr. has been a reliable three-point shooter over the last 10 games. The Pacers are led by Tyrese Haliburton, who averages 18.6 points, 9.2 assists, and 1.5 steals, with Pascal Siakam also contributing 16.2 points and four assists.
INJURIES:
The Nuggets are without DaRon Holmes II (out for season, achilles) and Jamal Murray is day-to-day (hamstring). The Pacers miss Isaiah Jackson (out for season, calf).
Houston Rockets vs. Golden State Warriors
NBA Matchup Preview: Houston Rockets vs. Golden State Warriors
Location: San Francisco | Time: Sunday, 8:30 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Warriors -5.5
BOTTOM LINE:
The Golden State Warriors are expected to cover the -5.5 spread as they aim to extend their three-game home win streak against the Houston Rockets.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Warriors (46-31, fifth in the Western Conference) have been solid in conference play with a 27-20 record. Their ability to move the ball is a key strength, as they average 29.1 assists per game led by Stephen Curry, who is averaging 6.0 assists. On the other hand, the Rockets (51-27, second in the Western Conference) are 30-18 in conference games and have a respectable 21-20 record against teams with a winning record, but they have shown inconsistency from beyond the arc.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Golden Stateâs offensive efficiency sets them apart. The Warriors average 15.4 made 3-pointers per game, which is 3.3 more than the 12.1 that the Rockets allow, indicating a significant advantage from deep. Additionally, the Rockets are shooting 45.4% from the fieldâ1.2 percentage points lower than the 46.6% their opponents have hitâhighlighting defensive struggles that the Warriors can exploit. This combination of superior shooting and disciplined play should enable Golden State to build a sizable lead and cover the -5.5 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
Stephen Curry leads Golden State with 24.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.0 assists, while Jimmy Butler adds 18.7 points and 6.3 rebounds over the last 10 games. For Houston, Amen Thompson averages 14.0 points and 8.2 rebounds, with Jalen Green contributing 24.3 points and 5.8 rebounds in recent games.
INJURIES:
Both teams report no significant injuries.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. New Orleans Pelicans
NBA Matchup Preview: Milwaukee Bucks vs. New Orleans Pelicans
Location: New Orleans | Time: Sunday, 8:30 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Bucks -9
BOTTOM LINE:
The Milwaukee Bucks are expected to cover the -9 spread as they look to build on a three-game win streak against the struggling New Orleans Pelicans.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Pelicans (21-56, 14th in the Western Conference) have been very inconsistent at home, posting a 14-24 record and losing many close contests (3-8 in one-possession games). On the other hand, the Bucks (43-34, fifth in the Eastern Conference) have shown their ability to perform well in road games, even though they are 18-20 on the road. Milwaukee ranks eighth in the Eastern Conference, averaging 114.9 points per game while shooting 48.5% from the field, which gives them a slight scoring edge over the Pelicans.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
The Pelicans shoot 45.4% from the field, just a hair lower than the 45.6% that the Bucksâ opponents hit, which indicates that New Orleans struggles to defend the perimeter. Meanwhile, the Bucks allow 3.9 fewer points per game than the Pelicans score. This statistical advantage, coupled with a more consistent performance in recent games, suggests that the Bucks will control the pace, limit turnovers, and build a sizable lead to cover the -9 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For Milwaukee, Giannis Antetokounmpo is leading with 30.5 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.3 assists, while Brook Lopez contributes 16.5 points over the last 10 games. For New Orleans, Yves Missi averages 9 points with 8.2 rebounds, and Jose Alvarado provides 11.2 points and 5.4 assists.
INJURIES:
The Pelicans are missing Brandon Boston Jr., Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones, CJ McCollum, Jordan Hawkins, and Dejounte Murray, with Jose Alvarado day-to-day. The Bucks are without Jericho Sims (thumb) and Damian Lillard (calf).
