NBA Game Picks & Analysis
Portland Trail Blazers vs. New York Knicks
NBA Matchup Preview: Portland Trail Blazers vs. New York Knicks
Location: New York | Time: Sunday, 6 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Knicks -8
BOTTOM LINE:
Despite Portland coming in on a three-game losing streak, the New York Knicks are expected to cover the -8 spread. With a strong home-court advantage and efficient scoring, New York should build a comfortable lead over a struggling Trail Blazers squad.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Knicks (46-27, third in the Eastern Conference) have been excellent at home, posting a 24-12 record and averaging 116.5 points per game while outscoring opponents by 4.2 points. Their efficient play, especially from beyond the arc, has been key to their success. In contrast, the Trail Blazers (32-42, 12th in the Western Conference) are 12-24 on the road. Despite being third in the West in offensive rebounding (averaging 13.0 boards per game, led by Deandre Ayton at 3.1), Portland has struggled to keep pace offensively.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
New Yorkâs perimeter shooting is a significant advantage, as they make 12.6 three-pointers per gameâalmost identical to the 12.9 allowed by the Trail Blazers. Meanwhile, Portland averages 13.1 threes, just slightly below the 13.4 that the Knicks give up. These close numbers favor New Yorkâs consistency. With solid ball control and home-court energy, the Knicks are poised to maintain a lead and cover the -8 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For the Knicks, Karl-Anthony Towns is averaging 24.5 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists, while OG Anunoby has been effective from deep. On the Trail Blazersâ side, Deni Avdija is averaging 16 points, seven rebounds, and 3.8 assists, with Anfernee Simons contributing 18.8 points and 3.4 assists over the last 10 games.
INJURIES:
The Knicks are without Ariel Hukporti (out, knee) and Jalen Brunson (out, ankle), with Miles McBride and Cameron Payne listed as day-to-day. The Trail Blazers miss Bryce McGowens (out for season, rib), Deandre Ayton (out, calf), and Robert Williams III (out, knee), with Jerami Grant day-to-day (knee).
Atlanta Hawks vs. Milwaukee Bucks
NBA Matchup Preview: Atlanta Hawks vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Location: Milwaukee | Time: Sunday, 7 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Bucks -4
BOTTOM LINE:
Despite the Hawks’ recent hot streak, the Milwaukee Bucks are expected to cover the -4 spread. With strong defensive play and balanced scoring, the Bucks should control the game and overcome their recent losses.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Bucks (40-33, sixth in the Eastern Conference) are 27-20 against Eastern Conference teams and rank second in the East with 35.2 defensive rebounds per game, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo who averages 9.7 boards. In contrast, the Hawks (35-38, seventh in the Eastern Conference) are 26-20 in conference play and score 55.0 points per game in the paint, led by Jalen Johnsonâs 11.8 rebounds. However, the Hawks have been inconsistent overall, giving opponents more scoring opportunities.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Milwaukeeâs defense is a key advantage: opponents shoot only 45.5% from the field, compared to the Hawks’ 46.9%. On the perimeter, the Bucks make 14.1 three-pointers per gameâthe same average the Hawks allow. Additionally, the Bucksâ overall scoring (averaging 112.9 points per game) is lower than what the Hawks allow (116.9 points per game). These factors suggest that the Bucks can limit Atlantaâs offense and build a lead, making it likely theyâll cover the -4 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For Milwaukee, Brook Lopez is averaging 12.9 points, while Giannis Antetokounmpo has been posting 23.9 points over the last 10 games. For Atlanta, Dyson Daniels is contributing 13.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 3.1 steals, and Trae Young is averaging 24.8 points.
INJURIES:
The Bucks are without Jericho Sims (out, thumb) and Damian Lillard (out, groin). The Hawks miss Larry Nance Jr. (out for season, knee), Kobe Bufkin (out for season, shoulder), Clint Capela (out, hand), and Jalen Johnson (out for season, shoulder).
Detroit Pistons vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
NBA Matchup Preview: Detroit Pistons vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
Location: Minneapolis | Time: Sunday, 7 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Timberwolves -7
BOTTOM LINE:
The Minnesota Timberwolves are expected to cover the -7 spread and win this game by a comfortable margin. With their strong offensive performance at home and solid defensive numbers, the Wolves should outlast the Detroit Pistons.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Timberwolves (42-32, eighth in the Western Conference) are 22-16 at home, averaging 113.7 points per game and outscoring opponents by 4.4 points. Their efficient shooting from beyond the arc is a key strength; they make an average of 15.1 three-pointers per game, which is 1.4 more than the 13.7 the Pistons allow. Meanwhile, the Pistons (42-32, fifth in the Eastern Conference) are 21-16 on the road and rely heavily on scoring in the paint, led by Cade Cunningham who averages 12.5 rebounds per game. However, Detroitâs defensive numbers are not enough, as they allow 115.7 points per game compared to the Timberwolvesâ 109.3.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
The Wolvesâ overall balance on both ends of the floor is expected to create a significant gap. Their ability to knock down threes and control the tempo should give them the edge in what is likely to be a high-scoring contest. With recent success over their last 10 games, where they averaged 121.4 points per game while shooting 50.1%, Minnesota looks poised to cover the -7 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
Minnesota is led by Anthony Edwards, who averages 27.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.6 assists. On the Pistons, players like Julius Randle (17.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 5.3 assists) and Jalen Duren (11.7 points, 10.2 rebounds) will try to keep pace.
INJURIES:
Minnesota is without Terrence Shannon Jr. (day-to-day, groin), while Detroit misses Jaden Ivey (out, leg) and Cade Cunningham (day-to-day, calf).
Charlotte Hornets vs. New Orleans Pelicans
NBA Matchup Preview: Charlotte Hornets vs. New Orleans Pelicans
Location: New Orleans, Florida | Time: Sunday, 7 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Pelicans -3
BOTTOM LINE:
The New Orleans Pelicans are expected to cover the -3 spread against the struggling Charlotte Hornets. With efficient offense and a slightly better defensive effort, the Pelicans should build a small but significant lead.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Pelicans (20-54, 14th in the Western Conference) are 13-24 at home, and although they allow 119.1 points per game and have been outscored by 8.7 points on average, they still manage to score 110.4 points per game. Meanwhile, the Hornets (18-55, 14th in the Eastern Conference) are 7-29 on the road. They lead the Eastern Conference in offensive rebounding, averaging 12.5 per game, a statistic driven by Mark Williams averaging 3.1 boards. However, their overall shooting strugglesâ42.9% FGâleave them vulnerable.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
The Pelicans have a slight edge on defense as they allow opponents to shoot 48.3% from the field, compared to the Hornetsâ 42.9% shooting. Moreover, while the Pelicans score slightly lower (110.4 ppg) than what the Hornets concede (113.9 ppg), this margin indicates that the Hornetsâ defense has been porous. With better ball control and more consistent shooting, New Orleans is well-positioned to cover the -3 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For the Pelicans, CJ McCollum averages 21.1 points with 3.8 rebounds and 4.1 assists, while Karlo Matkovic has been efficient, averaging 10.5 points and 6.3 rebounds at 65.2% over the last 10 games. For the Hornets, Miles Bridges averages 20.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, and LaMelo Ball contributes 15.1 points with 6.7 assists over the past 10 games.
INJURIES:
The Pelicans are without Brandon Boston Jr. (ankle), Trey Murphy III and Herbert Jones (both out for season), with CJ McCollum day-to-day (foot) and Dejounte Murray out for season (leg), while Zion Williamson is day-to-day (back). The Hornets miss Grant Williams, Brandon Miller, and Tre Mann (all out for season), with Josh Okogie day-to-day and LaMelo Ball out for season.
Golden State Warriors vs. San Antonio Spurs
NBA Matchup Preview: Golden State Warriors vs. San Antonio Spurs
Location: San Antonio | Time: Sunday, 7 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Warriors -11.5
BOTTOM LINE:
The Golden State Warriors are expected to cover the -11.5 spread against the struggling San Antonio Spurs. With strong defensive efficiency and balanced offense, Golden State should build a large lead in this matchup.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Warriors (42-31, seventh in the Western Conference) are 23-20 in conference games and have been effective on the road. They allow only 110.7 points per game while holding opponents to 46.5% shooting. In contrast, the Spurs (31-42, 13th in the Western Conference) are 20-26 in conference play and have a poor record in games decided by 10 or more points (17-28), reflecting their inconsistency.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Golden Stateâs shooting efficiency is a key advantage. Their field goal percentage of 44.9% is 2.5 percentage points lower than what the Spursâ opponents have hit (47.4%), indicating that the Warriors force tough shots. Additionally, while the Spurs score an average of 114.3 points per game, the Warriorsâ stifling defense and disciplined play should limit San Antonioâs output. With a potent offense led by Stephen Curry and consistent defensive pressure, the Warriors are well-positioned to cover the -11.5 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For the Spurs, Chris Paul averages 8.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 7.6 assists, while Devin Vassell adds 19.4 points and 5.5 rebounds over the last 10 games. For the Warriors, Stephen Curry leads with 24.1 points and six assists, and Quinten Post has been reliable from beyond the arc with 2.4 made 3-pointers.
INJURIES:
The Spurs are missing DeâAaron Fox (out for season, hand), Victor Wembanyama (out for season, shoulder), and Charles Bassey (day-to-day, knee). The Warriors are dealing with Stephen Curry (day-to-day, pelvic) and Gary Payton II (out, thumb).
Toronto Raptors vs. Philadelphia 76ers
NBA Matchup Preview: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Toronto Raptors
Location: Philadelphia | Time: Sunday, 7:30 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Raptors -6.5
BOTTOM LINE:
Despite Philadelphiaâs seven-game losing streak, the Toronto Raptors are expected to cover the -6.5 spread. With superior rebounding and improved defensive execution, the Raptors should outlast the struggling 76ers.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The 76ers (23-51, 13th in the East) have struggled against division opponents (3-11) and are 9-29 against teams over .500. They have been outscored in recent matchups and rank low in rebounds, averaging only 39.3 per game. In contrast, the Raptors (27-47, 11th in the East) have managed a respectable 6-8 record against Atlantic Division opponents and rank ninth in the league with 32.7 defensive rebounds per game, led by Jakob Poeltlâs 6.4 boards. This defensive advantage is crucial in a matchup where the 76ers allow opponents to hit 14.3 made 3-pointers per game compared to the Raptorsâ 11.5.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Philadelphia is shooting 45.5% from the field, slightly below the 46.3% that opponents hit against Toronto. While the 76ers average 111.9 points per game, their inconsistency has led them to give up as many as 124.1 points in recent contests. The Raptorsâ ability to control the glass and limit second-chance opportunities should allow them to build a lead, making it likely they will cover the -6.5 spread.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For the 76ers, Kelly Oubre Jr. averages 15.1 points and Quentin Grimes 21.9 points over the last 10 games. The Raptors are led by Scottie Barnes, who averages 19.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.9 assists, while Jamison Battle provides solid three-point shooting.
INJURIES:
The 76ers are without Jared McCain, Eric Gordon, Paul George, Joel Embiid, and others, while the Raptors miss Ulrich Chomche, Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, Jakob Poeltl, and Immanuel Quickley.
Houston Rockets vs. Phoenix Suns
NBA Matchup Preview: Houston Rockets vs. Phoenix Suns
Location: Phoenix | Time: Sunday, 9 p.m. EDT
Our Pick: Rockets -2
BOTTOM LINE:
The Houston Rockets are expected to cover the -2 spread and extend their four-game road win streak against the Phoenix Suns. With balanced scoring and strong rebounding, Houston should control the pace and build a small but decisive lead.
TEAM OVERVIEW:
The Rockets (48-26, second in the Western Conference) are 27-17 in conference play. They average 113.7 points per game and shoot 45.1% from the field. Their ability to rebound and generate fast-break opportunities has been key to their success. On the other side, the Suns (35-39, 11th in the Western Conference) have struggled against conference opponents, holding a 21-26 record and a 12-19 mark in games decided by 10 points or more.
MATCHUP INSIGHTS:
Although the Suns average 14.5 made 3-pointers per gameâ2.4 more than the 12.1 that the Rockets allowâHoustonâs overall offensive consistency and rebounding will help them control the game. The Rocketsâ shooting percentage of 45.1% is slightly lower than the 46.7% that the Sunsâ opponents hit, but their ability to limit second-chance opportunities and force turnovers should keep the margin narrow. This combination of factors indicates that the Rockets can cover the -2 spread, even in a competitive matchup.
TOP PERFORMERS:
For Phoenix, Devin Booker averages 25.3 points and 7.1 assists, while Kevin Durant adds 27 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists over the last 10 games. For Houston, Jalen Green is averaging 21.5 points and 4.7 rebounds, with Fred VanVleet contributing 2.7 made 3-pointers per game.
INJURIES:
The Suns are without Bradley Beal (day-to-day, hamstring), while the Rockets miss Reed Sheppard (out, thumb) and have Steven Adams listed as day-to-day (wrist).
