The NBA returns after a one-day break for Thanksgiving, and we’re coming off a solid 9-5 performance in our last set of predictions. This brings our season record to 102-58 and improves our accuracy rate to 63.75%. Tonight, we’re greeted with a 10-game slate and are determined to raise that number even higher.
The action begins with two early afternoon games: the New York Knicks face the Charlotte Hornets in a battle of Eastern Conference foes, while the Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Atlanta Hawks in what should be a thrilling clash. Later, the New Orleans Pelicans meet the Memphis Grizzlies, with both teams eager to make strides in the Western Conference, and the Los Angeles Clippers face the surging Minnesota Timberwolves.
In other matchups, the Orlando Magic square off against the Brooklyn Nets, while the Boston Celtics host the Chicago Bulls in a classic rivalry game. The Detroit Pistons aim to break their slump against the Indiana Pacers, and the Toronto Raptors take on the Miami Heat in a high-stakes contest for positioning in the East.
As the evening winds down, the Oklahoma City Thunder face the Los Angeles Lakers in a showdown of star power and youth, while the Sacramento Kings close the night against the Portland Trail Blazers in a matchup filled with offensive firepower.
Let’s break down each of these games and aim to deliver another strong night of predictions.
New York Knicks At Charlotte Hornets - 12:00 PM EST
Knicks Current Record: 10-8
Hornets Current Record: 6-12
Knicks Injuries: Mitchell Robinson - Out (Ankle), Precious Achiuwa - Out (Hamstring), Kevin McCullar Jr. - Out (Knee)
Hornets Injuries: Grant Williams - Out (ACL)
Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 4-1
The New York Knicks face the Charlotte Hornets in a pivotal Black Friday matchup at the Spectrum Center. The Knicks are in excellent form, led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, both averaging over 24 points per game. Their balanced offense and defensive improvements have helped them maintain consistency, making them favorites in this game.
The Hornets, on the other hand, heavily rely on LaMelo Ball, who is having an extraordinary season with 31 points per game. However, injuries to key players like Miles Bridges and Mark Williams have left the Hornets undermanned, affecting their ability to compete against well-rounded teams. Despite Ball's brilliance and Brandon Miller’s scoring, Charlotte's defensive struggles and lack of depth have been glaring issues.
The Knicks’ superior roster depth, better defensive structure, and overall team cohesion give them a clear advantage. They should capitalize on Charlotte’s defensive lapses and limited scoring options outside of Ball.
Prediction: Knicks def. Hornets 118-108
Cleveland Cavaliers At Atlanta Hawks - 2:30 PM EST
Cavaliers Current Record: 17-2
Hawks Current Record: 8-11
Cavaliers Injuries: Dean Wade - Out (Ankle), Caris LeVert - Out (Knee), Max Strus - Out (Ankle), Emoni Bates - Out (Knee)
Hawks Injuries: Trae Young - Day To Day (Achilles), Cody Zeller - Out (Personal), Seth Lundy - Out (Ankle)
Last 5 Meetings: Cavs Lead 3-2
The Cleveland Cavaliers visit the Atlanta Hawks in an NBA Cup group-stage matchup, with both teams having distinct trajectories this season. The Cavaliers, boasting the league's best offense (123.4 points per game), are led by Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley, who combine for over 60 points per game. Cleveland’s defensive improvements and three-point efficiency make them a dominant force, especially against Atlanta’s struggling defense, which allows 120.5 points per game.
The Hawks, meanwhile, have battled inconsistency and a porous defense but rely on the brilliance of Trae Young and emerging talents like Jalen Johnson. Atlanta’s success hinges on exploiting Cleveland's occasional vulnerability from beyond the arc and controlling the boards. While they’ve shown flashes of potential, their defensive lapses and inability to close games against elite teams remain significant hurdles.
Prediction: Cavaliers def. Hawks 121-110
New Orleans Pelicans At Memphis Grizzlies - 5:00 PM EST
Pelicans Current Record: 4-15
Grizzlies Current Record: 12-7
Pelicans Injuries: Jamal Cain - Day To Day (Ankle), Jordan Hawkins - Day To Day (Back), Trey Murphy III - Day To Day (Knee), Brandon Ingram - Day To Day (Calf), Herbert Jones - Out (Shoulder), Zion Williamson - Out (Hamstring), Jose Alvarado - Out (Hamstring)
Grizzlies Injuries: Ja Morant - Day To Day (Knee), Vince Williams Jr. - Out (Ankle), Zach Edey - Out (Ankle), GG Jackson II - Out (Foot)
Last 5 Meetings: Pelicans Lead 3-2
The New Orleans Pelicans face off against the Memphis Grizzlies in a critical Emirates NBA Cup Group C matchup at the FedExForum. Both teams are seeking to boost their tournament standing, with Memphis aiming to secure its first win in the group stage and New Orleans looking to bounce back from an inconsistent start to the season.
The Pelicans have struggled offensively, averaging a league-worst 103.8 points per game. Despite these issues, Brandon Ingram has been a bright spot, leading the team with 22.9 points per game. However, his questionable status for this matchup with an ankle sprain could hamper New Orleans’ chances. The absence of key contributors and poor rebounding rank (19th in the league) have further limited their ability to contend against more balanced teams.
The Grizzlies come into this game with momentum and the advantage of home court. Jaren Jackson Jr. continues to lead Memphis with 22.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. The team’s depth and balanced scoring from contributors like Santi Aldama and Scotty Pippen Jr. complement their strong defensive presence. Memphis’ ability to control the boards and limit opponents’ three-point shooting will likely play a pivotal role in this matchup.
Prediction: Grizzlies def. Pelicans 119-110
Los Angeles Clippers At Minnesota Timberwolves - 7:30 PM EST
Clippers Current Record: 12-8
Wolves Current Record: 8-10
Clippers Injuries: Kobe Brown - Out (Back), Norman Powell - Out (Hamstring), Kawhi Leonard - Out (Knee), P.J. Tucker - Out (Away from team)
Wolves Injuries: Joe Ingles - Out (Calf)
Last 5 Meetings: Wolves Lead 4-1
The Los Angeles Clippers and Minnesota Timberwolves face off in a pivotal Emirates NBA Cup Group matchup at Target Center. Both teams are looking to bolster their standings in the tournament, with the Clippers riding a wave of confidence after a decisive victory over the Washington Wizards and the Timberwolves reeling from a home loss to the Sacramento Kings.
The Clippers have displayed resilience this season despite injuries to key players like Kawhi Leonard. James Harden, fresh off a 43-point explosion, leads the team offensively alongside Ivica Zubac, who has been a force in the paint with 15.7 points and 12.6 rebounds per game. The team’s ability to rebound and stretch the floor with sharpshooting from Derrick Jones Jr. and Norman Powell (if he returns) adds depth to their offensive arsenal.
The Timberwolves have struggled to find consistency, particularly at home, where they’ve been poor against the spread. Anthony Edwards remains their primary offensive weapon, averaging 28.1 points, but inefficiency from supporting players like Rudy Gobert and a lack of rebounding dominance have hurt Minnesota. Julius Randle provides secondary scoring, but the Wolves need a collective improvement to keep pace with a Clippers squad that’s been in rhythm.
The Clippers are in better form and have consistently performed well on the road, covering the spread in most of their away games. The Timberwolves’ inconsistency, especially at home, further tilts the advantage toward Los Angeles.
Prediction: Clippers def. Wolves 112-108
Orlando Magic At Brooklyn Nets - 7:30 PM EST
Magic Current Record: 13-7
Nets Current Record: 9-10
Magic Injuries: Gary Harris - Out (Hamstring), Paolo Banchero - Out (Oblique)
Nets Injuries: Dorian Finney-Smith - Day To Day (Ankle), Cameron Johnson - Out (Ankle), Nic Claxton - Out (Back), Jalen Wilson - Day To Day (Calf), Dennis Schroder - Out (Personal), Jaylen Martin - Out (Knee), Day'Ron Sharpe - Out (Hamstring), Noah Clowney - Out (Ankle), Cam Thomas - Out (Hamstring), Bojan Bogdanovic - Out (Foot)
Last 5 Meetings: Magic Lead 3-2
The Orlando Magic and Brooklyn Nets meet in an NBA Cup showdown, with both teams dealing with significant absences. The Magic, missing star Paolo Banchero, have relied heavily on Franz Wagner, who has proven his ability to lead the team offensively. Supporting players like Cole Anthony and Jonathan Isaac have stepped up, providing depth and balance to Orlando's lineup. Their defense has been a cornerstone, limiting opponents' opportunities and keeping them competitive even without their primary scorer. The Magic's ability to maintain intensity on both ends of the floor makes them a tough matchup for a Brooklyn squad missing its rhythm.
On the other hand, the Nets are facing uncertainty around Cam Thomas's availability, but Dennis Schroder has stepped into a leading role, showcasing his playmaking and scoring capabilities. Brooklyn's defense has shown flashes of improvement, particularly in their last game, where they shut down Golden State's offense late. However, their inconsistency in half-court sets and reliance on perimeter shooting could prove problematic against Orlando's disciplined defense.
This game will likely be decided by the battle of tempo and late-game execution. While the Nets have home-court advantage, the Magic's depth and defensive tenacity give them the edge.
Prediction: Magic def. Nets 113-107
Boston Celtics At Chicago Bulls - 8 PM EST
Celtics Current Record: 15-3
Bulls Current Record: 8-12
Celtics Injuries: Luke Kornet - Day To Day (Hamstring)
Bulls Injuries: Coby White - Day To Day (Wrist), Lonzo Ball - Day To Day (Wrist), Dalen Terry - Day To Day (Ankle), Jalen Smith - Day To Day (Ankle), Patrick Williams - Out (Foot)
Last 5 Meetings: Celtics Lead 4-1
The Boston Celtics visit the Chicago Bulls in an NBA Cup Group C matchup, with both teams looking to take control of the standings. The Celtics, riding a six-game winning streak, have been one of the most dominant teams in the league. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown lead the way offensively, while Kristaps Porziņģis continues to integrate into the lineup following his return from injury. Boston’s combination of perimeter shooting and defensive intensity makes them a difficult matchup for any opponent, especially given their ability to execute in transition and in the half-court.
The Bulls have had an up-and-down season but remain competitive thanks to Lonzo Ball’s playmaking and Nikola Vučević’s consistent scoring and rebounding. Chicago’s ability to limit turnovers and capitalize on opportunities will be critical against a disciplined Celtics team. However, their inconsistency, particularly at home, remains a concern against elite opponents.
Prediction: Celtics def. Bulls 124-110
Detroit Pistons At Indiana Pacers - 8 PM EST
Pistons Current Record: 8-12
Pacers Current Record: 9-10
Pistons Injuries: Tobias Harris - Day To Day (Hip), Cade Cunningham - Out (Hip), Bobi Klintman - Out (Calf)
Pacers Injuries: Ben Sheppard - Out (Oblique), Aaron Nesmith - Out (Ankle), Andrew Nembhard - Out (Knee), Isaiah Jackson - Out (Achilles), James Wiseman - Out (Achilles)
Last 5 Meetings: Pacers Lead 5-0
The Detroit Pistons face the Indiana Pacers in an exciting NBA Cup Group B matchup. The Pistons, currently 2-0 in NBA Cup play, aim to maintain their momentum despite recent struggles in regular-season play, including a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. With Cade Cunningham and Tobias Harris potentially sidelined due to injuries, the Pistons will rely heavily on Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren to lead the charge. Duren’s dominance on the boards and Ivey’s ability to spark offense will be crucial as Detroit looks to overcome adversity.
On the other side, the Pacers, winless in NBA Cup action, are riding a three-game winning streak in regular-season play. Tyrese Haliburton has been a standout performer, demonstrating his scoring and playmaking prowess, while Pascal Siakam has added depth to the offense. The Pacers' recent home success and their ability to capitalize on fast-paced play make them formidable opponents.
Prediction: Pacers def. Pistons 124-117
Toronto Raptors At Miami Heat - 8 PM EST
Raptors Current Record: 5-14
Heat Current Record: 8-8
Raptors Injuries: Bruce Brown - Out (Knee), Gradey Dick - Out (Calf), Immanuel Quickley - Out (Elbow), Kelly Olynyk - Out (Back)
Heat Injuries: Kevin Love - Day To Day (Back), Terry Rozier - Day To Day (Foot), Duncan Robinson - Day To Day (Glute), Jimmy Butler - Day To Day (Back)
Last 5 Meetings: Heat Lead 3-2
The Toronto Raptors face the Miami Heat in a critical NBA Cup matchup at Kaseya Center. The Raptors have struggled this season with a 5-14 record but are coming off an impressive 109-93 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. Led by Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett, Toronto's offense has shown potential despite inconsistency in shooting efficiency. Jakob Poeltl has been a steady force on the boards, but the Raptors need more consistency to contend against Miami's disciplined approach.
The Miami Heat recently edged the Charlotte Hornets 98-94 in a gritty performance. Tyler Herro has been the centerpiece of Miami’s offense, while Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo provide versatility on both ends. Despite some struggles with rebounding and turnovers, the Heat's three-point shooting remains a strength, and they’ve proven to be formidable at home in key moments.
Prediction: Heat def. Raptors 108-102
Oklahoma City Thunder At Los Angeles Lakers - 10 PM EST
Thunder Current Record: 14-4
Lakers Current Record: 11-7
Thunder Injuries: Adam Flagler - Day To Day (Hand), Alex Caruso - Out (Hip), Alex Ducas - Out (Hip), Ousmane Dieng - Out (Finger), Chet Holmgren - Out (Hip), Jaylin Williams - Out (Hamstring), Nikola Topic - Out (ACL)
Lakers Injuries: Anthony Davis - Day To Day (Foot), Dalton Knecht - Day To Day (Quad), Jaxson Hayes - Day To Day (Ankle), Bronny James - Out (Heel), Jarred Vanderbilt - Out (Foot), Christain Wood - Out (Knee)
Last 5 Meetings: Lakers Lead 4-1
The Oklahoma City Thunder will face off against the Los Angeles Lakers in an exciting NBA Cup matchup at Crypto.com Arena. The Thunder, boasting a strong record, are led by the dynamic Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been dominant this season, averaging 29.5 points per game on efficient shooting. Despite missing key players like Chet Holmgren and potentially Jalen Williams, the Thunder’s depth and Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership keep them competitive. Isaiah Hartenstein and Luguentz Dort will need to step up to compensate for their depleted roster.
The Lakers are coming off a strong win over the San Antonio Spurs. Anthony Davis, assuming he plays, and LeBron James continue to anchor the team, with Davis contributing 29.2 points and 11.5 rebounds per game. Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura provide additional scoring options, giving the Lakers a well-rounded offense. Los Angeles’ ability to capitalize on turnovers and hit timely shots will be critical against Oklahoma City’s high-octane attack.
Prediction: Lakers def. Thunder 123-118
Sacramento Kings At Portland Trail Blazers - 10 PM EST
Kings Current Record: 9-10
Blazers Current Record: 7-12
Kings Injuries: DeMar DeRozan - Out (Back), Isaiah Crawford - Out (Ankle), Trey Lyles - Out (Calf), Mason Jones - Out (Hamstring)
Blazers Injuries: Kris Murray - Day To Day (Chest), Robert Willaims IiI - Day To Day (Concussion), Jerami Grant - Day To Day (Knee), Matisse Thybulle - Out (Ankle), Donovan Clingan - Out (Knee)
Last 5 Meetings: Kings Lead 4-1
The Sacramento Kings will take on the Portland Trail Blazers in an NBA Cup showdown at the Moda Center. The Kings come into this game with a decent record but are riding high after a strong win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Sacramento's offense, led by De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, has been productive despite some inconsistencies, particularly from beyond the arc. Sabonis, in particular, continues to be a force inside, averaging a double-double this season.
On the other hand, the Trail Blazers have struggled to find rhythm this season. Injuries have played a major role in their struggles, but Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe have shown flashes of brilliance. The team’s offensive woes, particularly their low shooting percentages, have hindered their ability to compete consistently. The Blazers' defense, anchored by Deandre Ayton, will need to step up to contain Sacramento's dynamic duo.
