NBA Game Picks & Analysis
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Charlotte Hornets
Lakers vs. Hornets Preview
Monday at Spectrum Center
Our Pick: Lakers -5
The Los Angeles Lakers head to Charlotte on Monday night, riding a wave of momentum after winning five of their last six games. Their latest triumph was a 118-108 road victory over the Warriors on Saturday. Anthony Davis shined with 36 points and 13 rebounds, while LeBron James added 25 points and dished out 12 assists. Supported by Austin Reavesâs 16 points and seven assists, the Lakers shot 54% from the field and sank 10 of 29 threes. Although Gabe Vincent and Rui Hachimura are questionable, L.A.âs depth and recent chemistry have them primed for continued success.
Meanwhile, the Hornets look to keep rolling as well, having won four of their last six. Theyâre coming off a dominant 123-92 home win over the Pelicans, sparked by LaMelo Ballâs 25 points, Miles Bridgesâs 22, and Seth Curryâs efficient 16 in just 19 minutes off the bench. Charlotte shot 50% overall and knocked down 21 threes, controlling the game from start to finish. Cody Martin remains out, but the Hornets boast solid frontcourt play (13.0 offensive rebounds per game, second in the league) which can generate second-chance points.
Despite Charlotteâs recent surge at home, historical trends favor the Lakers in this matchup. L.A. has won seven straight night games against the Hornets following a road win and covered in 10 of their last 11 visits to Spectrum Center. Davis and James are showing strong synergy, making them a formidable challenge. While Charlotte can be dangerous, especially after blowing out New Orleans, the Lakersâ consistent form and star power should be enough to cover the modest -5 spread on Monday night.
Detroit Pistons vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
Pistons vs. Cavaliers Preview
Monday at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse
Our Pick: Cavaliers -11
The Detroit Pistons head to Cleveland on Monday night, hoping to bounce back from a 121-113 road loss to the Magic. Despite Cade Cunninghamâs impressive 35-point, 11-assist performance, the Pistons let a double-digit early lead slip away by allowing 42 points in the final quarter. Detroitâs recent form includes four wins in seven games, but inconsistent defense has plagued themâespecially when they face quality competition. Tobias Harris is questionable, which could further deplete their lineup.
On the other side, the Cavaliers look to snap a three-game skid. Clevelandâs latest setback was a tough 135-131 defeat to Houston, despite 39 points from Darius Garland and 33 from Donovan Mitchell. While the Cavs shot 51 percent and clawed back from a 19-point hole, a late 10-2 Rockets run sealed their fate. Injuries to Caris LeVert, Dean Wade, and Isaac Okoro have forced Cleveland to rely more heavily on its stars. However, the Cavs have historically dominated this matchup, winning 10 straight night games against the Pistons and covering in eight of their last nine home contests against them.
Additionally, the Pistons have lost 24 consecutive night games versus Central Division foes with winning records, and theyâve struggled to contain high-powered offenses when traveling. Meanwhile, Cleveland remains one of the leagueâs better teams in the first half (73.3% H1 win percentage) and often finishes strong (60.0% Q4 win percentage). Expect the Cavsâ depth, star power, and home-court advantage to fuel a confident performanceâcovering the -11 spread in front of their home fans.
Houston Rockets vs. Boston Celtics
Rockets vs. Celtics Preview
Monday at TD Garden
Our Pick: Celtics -6.5
The Houston Rockets visit the Boston Celtics on Monday, looking to extend a hot streak of eight wins in their last 10 outings. Houston is coming off a gritty 135-131 victory over Cleveland in which they nearly let a 19-point lead slip away. Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun each scored 26 points, while Amen Thompson delivered an eye-opening triple-double (23 points, 14 rebounds, 10 assists). This young Rockets squad has excelled in transition, leveraging stellar guard play and deep bench contributions.
Meanwhile, Boston aims to build on a 122-107 triumph over Dallas. The Celtics impressed with a balanced offenseâJayson Tatum led with 24 points, Derrick White notched 23, and Jaylen Brown added 22 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Shooting 42% from the field and draining 20 threes on 52 attempts, the Celtics utilized a dominant second and third quarter to maintain a sizeable cushion. Although Al Horford and Derrick White are questionable, Bostonâs deep roster and proven ability to execute under head coach Joe Mazzulla keep them formidable.
Historically, the Celtics hold a decisive edge in this matchup at TD Garden, having covered in seven of the last eight home contests against Houston. Additionally, the Rockets have lost 18 of their last 19 road games against East teams holding a winning recordâindicating they often struggle away from Toyota Center. Even though Houstonâs youthful lineup is confident, Bostonâs high-volume three-point shooting and strong home record should prove too much. Expect Tatum, Brown, and the Celtics to assert control early and cover the -6.5 spread.
Sacramento Kings vs. Brooklyn Nets
Kings vs. Nets Preview
Monday at Barclays Center
Our Pick: Kings -12
The Sacramento Kings visit the Brooklyn Nets on Monday night, aiming to rebound from a lopsided 143-120 defeat against the Knicks. In that loss, Malik Monk dropped 31 points and nine assists, Domantas Sabonis recorded a 25-13-12 triple-double, and DeMar DeRozan added 18 points. Despite shooting 48 percent from the field, the Kings were overwhelmed in the second half, outscored 72-53. Still, Sacramento remains a potent offensive force, boasting a league-low 13.0 turnovers per game (third fewest in the NBA) and a roster returning to full strength for this matchup.
Meanwhile, the Nets are mired in a slump, dropping 11 of their last 12 contests. They recently suffered a sixth straight loss, a 106-97 home setback to the Heat. DâAngelo Russell (22 points), Keon Johnson (22 points), and Nic Claxton (13 points) led the effort, but Brooklyn shot just 37 percent overall and 14-of-40 from beyond the arc. Injuries continue to plague the Nets, who have Cam Thomas out and Ben Simmons questionable. Thatâs concerning for a team already ranking last in field goal attempts per game (85.1) and field goal percentage defense (allowing 37.9% from three).
Historically, Brooklyn last beat Sacramento on November 24, but both teams look different now. The Kingsâwhen healthyâare explosive, while the Nets simply cannot find traction. The line may be sizable at -12, but the Kings should be primed for a bounce-back performance on the road. Expect Sacramentoâs superior depth, cleaner ball control, and healthy roster to dominate an undermanned Nets squad at home, covering the spread in decisive fashion.
Orlando Magic vs. Miami Heat
Magic vs. Heat Preview
Monday at Kaseya Center
Our Pick: Magic -1.5
The Orlando Magic visit the Miami Heat on Monday night, looking to build on the momentum of their 121-113 victory against Detroit. That win snapped a five-game skid, as Orlando unleashed a 42-point fourth quarter behind Paolo Banchero (32 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists) and Franz Wagner (32 points, 7 assists). The Magic shot 48 percent from the field, also connecting on 15 of 33 threes. Injuries remain a concern, with Gary Harris ruled out, and Jalen Suggs plus Goga Bitadze questionable. However, the Magic are regaining confidence and gradually returning to health.
Meanwhile, Miami has dropped five of its last seven but earned a 106-97 road victory over Brooklyn. Tyler Herro recorded 25 points and 8 assists, while Bam Adebayo and Nikola Jokic added 17 points apiece. The Heat shot 44 percent overall and 13 of 28 from deep, holding the Nets to just 17 first-quarter points to seize control early. Still, the Heatâs struggles have been glaring, especially at home. A key stat: They rank 29th for second-chance points (11.3 per game), limiting their opportunities to build leads.
Historically, Miami has dominated at Kaseya Center versus Southeast Division foes, but the Heat appear vulnerable with inconsistent offense and a shallow bench. The Magic, by contrast, have proven resilient and have won five of their last six against division rivals. Even with a battered roster, Orlandoâs combination of size, improving health, and a more balanced offense makes them the better bet. Look for the Magic to capitalize on Miamiâs home inconsistency and cover the -1.5 spread on Monday night.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. New York Knicks
Grizzlies vs. Knicks Preview
Monday Night at Madison Square Garden
Our Pick: Knicks -6.5
The Memphis Grizzlies pay a visit to the New York Knicks on Monday, both squads riding positive momentum. Memphis, after struggling with eight losses in 10 games, has reeled off six straight victories. In their latest outing, the Grizzlies hammered the Jazz, 125-103, with Jaren Jackson Jr. pouring in 28 points on 10-of-14 shooting, while Zach Edey contributed 19 points and four blocks. Memphis shot 51 percent from the field, exploding for 65 first-half points and holding Utah to a mere 17 in the third quarter.
Meanwhile, New York has won six of its last nine and looks to extend its own three-game streak. The Knicks turned in a dazzling performance Saturday, overwhelming the Kings, 143-120. OG Anunoby led with 33 points (12-of-18 shooting), followed by Mikal Bridges with 27 and Jalen Brunsonâs 25-point, 11-assist double-double. The Knicks fired 49 percent from the field and nailed 17 threes on 36 attempts, cruising behind a 38-point first quarter and never allowing Sacramento a way back.
Thereâs a question over Santi Aldama and Jake LaRavia for Memphis, while New York awaits an update on Josh Hartâs knee soreness. Although Memphis has rattled off six impressive wins, the Knicks are brimming with confidence after their recent blowouts. Historically, the Grizzlies have had trouble at Madison Square Garden when facing winning Knicks teams at night, and favorites generally excel in this matchup. Given New Yorkâs surging offense and depthâespecially if Hart is availableâthey should control the tempo and cover the modest -3 spread at home on Monday night.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Toronto Raptors
Pelicans vs. Raptors Preview
Monday at Scotiabank Arena
Our Pick: Pelicans -3
The New Orleans Pelicans head to Toronto on Monday, hoping to snap a two-game skid after defeats to Memphis and Charlotte. They are shooting 44.4% as a team and allowing 48.3% on defenseâan issue against any high-scoring offense. Zion Williamson (22.5 ppg, 8.5 rpg) leads the Pelicans, but Brandon Ingram and Herbert Jones remain out, while Dejounte Murray is questionable. Without key contributors, New Orleans has seen its consistency suffer.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Raptors are on an upswing, having defeated Orlando and Atlanta. They average 111.3 points on 47.1% shooting, anchored by RJ Barrett (22.1 ppg) and Scottie Barnes (20.1 ppg, 8.1 rpg). Gradey Dick provides perimeter spacing, and Jakob Poeltl (2.7 apg) offers frontcourt stabilityâthough heâs questionable for this contest alongside Ochai Agbaji and Kelly Olynyk. Even so, Toronto has demonstrated resilience, winning five of its last six and covering the spread in six of its last eight games.
While the Pelicans are physically imposing with Zion, they rank near the bottom in net rating (-8.7) and allow opponents to shoot at a high clip (48.3%). In contrast, the Raptorsâdespite subpar three-point numbersâhave improved their overall form and benefit from a formidable home-court advantage.
Yes, historically, the home team has prevailed in the Pelicansâ last five games, and Toronto remains healthier and in better rhythm. Expect the Raptors to face a determined opponent, but look for the Pelicansâ youthful energyâand Zionâs impactâto shine. The Pelicansâ interior play and advantage on the boards should help them edge out and cover the -3 spread on Monday.
Denver Nuggets vs. Chicago Bulls
Nuggets vs. Bulls Preview
Monday at United Center
Our Pick: Nuggets -9.5
The Denver Nuggets arrive in Chicago looking to extend their strong play after a recent win over Sacramento and a tough loss to Minnesota. Denver paces the league at 120.6 points per game on 50.3% shooting, propelled by Nikola Jokic (29.9 ppg, 13.1 rpg) and Jamal Murray (19.9 ppg). Shooting nearly 38.4% from three, theyâre one of the most efficient offenses. The Nuggets also boast a dominant 22-1 record when facing Eastern Conference opponents with losing records, indicating they typically capitalize on mismatches.
On the other side, the Bulls are in free fall, dropping eight of their last 10, including recent defeats to Golden State and Philadelphia. Zach LaVine leads with 24 points, and Nikola Vucevic adds 20.1 points and 3.4 assists. However, a defense allowing 120 points per game and shaky home performances (16 home losses already) have crippled Chicagoâs season. The Bulls have also lost six consecutive contests in which they followed up a home defeat.
Historically, Denver covers well on the road versus the Bulls, including six straight cover wins at the United Center after a loss. Despite some bright spotsâlike near-37% three-point shootingâChicago struggles in second quarters and allows a high number of field goal attempts. Meanwhile, the Nuggets continue to roll with an 8-2 SU and ATS mark in their last 10 games. Expect Jokic and Murray to orchestrate a potent attack against a stumbling Bulls squad. Look for Denverâs balanced offense and superior form to secure a double-digit win, covering the -9.5 spread on Monday.
Atlanta Hawks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
Hawks vs. Timberwolves Preview
Monday at Target Center
Our Pick: Timberwolves -10.5
The Atlanta Hawks (back on a slide after dropping their last four) visit a Minnesota Timberwolves squad looking to extend a win streak after victories over Dallas and Denver. Atlantaâs recent woes are exacerbated by injuries: Trae Young and Jalen Johnson join Cody Zeller and Kobe Bufkin on the sidelines, while others are questionable. Even healthy, the Hawks surrender 118.9 points on 47.8% shooting, and now with multiple starters missing, theyâll be hard-pressed to keep pace offensively.
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves (110.6 ppg on 46.2% shooting) hold opponents to just 108.1 pointsâfourth-best in the league. With Anthony Edwards surging (26.3 ppg) and Julius Randle (18.9 ppg, 4.6 apg) providing secondary scoring, the Wolves balance offense and a top-tier defense that allows only 34.6% shooting from deep. Even if Minnesota has players sidelined (Terrence Shannon Jr., Jesse Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo), this team consistently defends home court, especially against rosters missing star power.
Historically, Atlanta has struggled on the road against Northwest Division opponents, losing 10 of its last 11 in those matchups. The Hawks also have a tough time covering the spread as road underdogs versus Western Conference teams. In contrast, Minnesota typically takes care of business following a home win, covering in four of their last five night games under those conditions.
Expect the Timberwolves to exploit Atlantaâs patchwork lineup. The combination of Edwardsâs scoring, Randleâs interior presence, and Minnesotaâs stingy defense should produce a comfortable margin. Look for the T-Wolves to cover the -10.5 spread in a decisive home victory.
Washington Wizards vs. Dallas Mavericks
Wizards vs. Mavericks Preview
Monday at American Airlines Center
Our Pick: Mavericks -12.5
The Washington Wizards visit the Dallas Mavericks, riding a string of road woes against Western Conference opponents, especially those holding a big talent edge. Washington (107.8 ppg, 43.8% FG) is stuck at the bottom defensively, yielding 122.2 points on 47.5 percent shooting. Jordan Poole (21.4 ppg) and Kyle Kuzma (14.6 ppg) attempt to keep the offense afloat, but the Wizardsâ abysmal record on the roadâespecially vs. West teamsâlooms large.
On the flip side, Dallas (115.1 ppg, 47.7% FG) is a strong home favorite despite injuries to key players. Luka Doncic (28.1 ppg, 7.8 apg) and Kyrie Irving (24.4 ppg) form one of the leagueâs most dynamic backcourts. Even without several rotation pieces, the Mavericks still boast enough talent to overwhelm an overmatched Wizards squad. And while Dallas has stumbled in some home games, they thrive against heavy underdogs, covering each of their last five as favorites following a home loss.
History also favors Dallas: Washington has dropped 20 straight road games vs. Western Conference foes, and the favorites have prevailed in 13 consecutive Wizards contests. Meanwhile, the Wizards struggle mightily in night games against the Southwest Division. Though itâs a sizable spread, the Mavsâ potent offense and Lukaâs brilliance should exploit Washingtonâs lackluster defense.
Expect Dallasâs star power to dominate, especially in front of the home crowd, and see them run away with a decisive victoryâcovering the -12.5 spread against a depleted Wizards team.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Utah Jazz
Bucks vs. Jazz Preview
Monday at Delta Center
Our Pick: Bucks -9.5
The Milwaukee Bucks travel to Salt Lake City to face a Utah Jazz squad grappling with injuries and inefficiencies. Milwaukee is coming off a stretch in which they beat the Heat but lost to the Clippers, and now look to regain momentum. The Bucks are averaging 114.3 points on 48.2% shooting while allowing 111.1 points on a league-best 44.9% opponent field-goal percentage. Giannis Antetokounmpo (31.4 ppg, 12 rpg) leads the charge alongside Damian Lillard (25.2 ppg), forming one of the NBAâs most potent duos. Although Bobby Portis is out and Khris Middleton is questionable, Milwaukeeâs balanced depth has provided consistent scoring and stifling defense.
Meanwhile, the Jazz have struggled mightily, dropping recent contests to Oklahoma City and Memphis. Utah manages just 111.3 points on 45.6% shooting, while yielding 118.5 pointsâamong the leagueâs worst marks. Injuries to players like John Collins and Jordan Clarkson have hampered an already shaky roster, which ranks dead last in turnovers (17.9 per game). Lauri Markkanen (19.7 ppg) and Collin Sexton (18.3 ppg) can generate offense, but the Jazzâs porous defense and excessive mistakes doom them in many matchups.
Historically, Utah has been formidable at home, yet theyâve lost 17 of their last 18 at Delta Center to winning opponents. Meanwhile, Milwaukee has covered in seven straight road games on the first leg of a back-to-back versus the Western Conference. Despite some question marks, the Bucks boast a sturdy defense and unstoppable transition play that should force turnovers and create easy points. Expect Giannis, Lillard, and company to overwhelm the short-handed Jazz and cover the -9.5 spread in Mondayâs showdown.
Los Angeles Clippers vs. Phoenix Suns
Clippers vs. Suns Preview
Monday at Footprint Center
Our Pick: Clippers -1.5
The Los Angeles Clippers head to Phoenix on Monday, looking to build on back-to-back wins over the Wizards and Bucks. Their offense features Norman Powell (23.9 ppg) and James Harden (21.7 ppg, 5.9 rpg), supported by Ivica Zubac and Kawhi Leonard. The Clippers average 110 points on 46.8% shooting, but what makes them particularly formidable is their defense, allowing just 106.8 points per game. They also limit opponents to 33.9% shooting from three, showcasing a disciplined perimeter defense.
Meanwhile, Phoenix comes into this matchup after wins over Brooklyn and Washington. While Kevin Durant (27.2 ppg, 6.4 rpg) and Devin Booker (25.5 ppg) headline a lethal scoring duo, the Suns have struggled for consistent coverage this season, holding just a 34.8% cover rate. Adding to their challenges, Jusuf Nurkicâs absence leaves them short on reliable post play and interior defense, especially against bigger lineups.
Despite the Suns going 4-1 at home recently, theyâve largely feasted on weaker opponents. Their next test is a Clippers squad that has won six of its last eight and just got Kawhi Leonard back in the fold. The Suns have also struggled on Monday nights against teams with winning recordsâfurthering the doubt around their ability to match up with L.A. when it counts.
With Los Angeles finally healthy and boasting strong defense, expect the Clippersâ balanced attack to carry the day. The -1.5 spread sets up well for a proven road team that continues to show signs of improvement, so back the Clips to cover at Footprint Center.
