NBA Game Picks & Analysis
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Washingotn Wizards
Timberwolves (20-18) at Wizards (6-31)
Monday, 7 p.m. ET
Our Pick: Wizards +15
Washington has dropped six straight, but it’s 2-0 in one-possession games and can keep this closer than expected at home (5-16). The Wizards score 108.4 points per game—slightly above Minnesota’s 107.7 allowed—and rely on Jonas Valanciunas (11.7 ppg, 8.1 rpg) to anchor the interior.
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves average 15.1 turnovers, giving the Wizards extra opportunities to stay within reach. Despite Minnesota’s road success (10-10), expect Washington’s hustle and home-court energy to help cover the +15 spread.
Detroit Pistons vs. New York Knicks
Pacers (20-19) at Knicks (26-14)
Monday, 7:30 p.m. ET
Our Pick: Pacers +7.5
New York returns home after Jalen Brunson’s 44-point explosion in a 140-106 win over Milwaukee. The Knicks (19-9 in conference) limit opponents to just 110.4 points on 46.7% shooting, powered by Karl-Anthony Towns’s interior presence (25.4 ppg, 14.0 rpg).
However, Indiana—sitting at 20-19—has the depth to keep things close. The Pacers shoot a respectable 46.8% against opponents and hold a 7-10 record in double-digit decisions. Expect them to ride their balanced offense to cover the +7.5 spread on the road.
Golden State Warriors vs. Toronto Raptors
Warriors (19-19) at Raptors (8-31)
Monday, 7:30 p.m. ET
Our Pick: Warriors -6
Toronto has dropped five straight and struggles at home (7-13), especially against winning teams (3-24 vs. above .500). Meanwhile, Golden State—9-9 away—ranks third in the NBA in rebounding (46.4 per game), led by Kevon Looney’s presence on the glass.
Even without key contributors, the Warriors’ ability to dominate the boards and knock down 15 threes a game should give them an edge. Expect Golden State to cover the -6 spread on the road.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Houston Rockets
Grizzlies (25-14) at Rockets (25-12)
Monday, 8 p.m. ET
Our Pick: Rockets ML
Houston rides a three-game win streak, boasting a sterling 8-1 mark within its division. The Rockets grab 34.3 defensive boards per game—fourth-best in the West—behind Alperen Sengun’s 7.1. Meanwhile, Memphis leads the conference in scoring (123.0 ppg), but the Grizzlies have proven vulnerable of late (5-5 in their last 10).
With the Rockets’ steady defense (allowing just 107.1 ppg) and divisional dominance, betting Houston on the moneyline is a smart play for this showdown.
San Antonio Spurs vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Spurs (18-19) at Lakers (20-16)
Monday, 10:30 p.m. ET
Our Pick: Lakers -3.5
San Antonio looks to snap a three-game skid but faces a Lakers squad (16-9 vs. the West) led by LeBron James (23.8 ppg on 50.7% shooting). The Spurs are competitive (25.1 ppg from Victor Wembanyama) but surrender 111.8 points—a mark the Lakers can match or exceed at home.
Even with a few day-to-day injuries, Los Angeles has proven they can score efficiently (47.7% opponent FG allowed). Expect the Lakers to protect home court and cover the -3.5 spread.
Miami Heat vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Heat (20-17) at Clippers (20-17)
Monday, 10:30 p.m. ET
Our Pick: Clippers -7
Los Angeles aims to extend its three-game home win streak, anchored by James Harden’s all-around impact (21.4 ppg, 6 rpg, 7.9 apg). Ivica Zubac (13.1 ppg in the paint) powers an interior attack that drives the Clippers’ offensive rhythm.
Miami (10-10 on the road) is solid against top teams (10-8 vs. .500+), but the Clippers limit opponents to 108.4 points per game and can exploit the Heat’s occasional scoring droughts. Expect L.A.’s balanced lineup and home-court energy to secure a win and cover the -7 spread.
