Free NBA Picks For Today, Monday 12/30/2024

The Charlotte Hornets find themselves in a dire situation, having lost 15 out of their last 16 games. They are looking to break a seven-game losing streak after a heavy defeat to the Thunder, with a final score of 106-94 last night. Miles Bridges led the team with an impressive performance, recording 19 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists. Vasilije Micic contributed 16 points, while Seth Curry and Mark Williams each scored 12 points.

The Pick:

The Bulls have not been at their best in recent performances; however, their impressive upset against the in-form Bucks last night revealed their potential. Conversely, the Hornets come into this game after suffering their 15th loss in 16 matches. With a short line in this contest, I am confident in the more stable Bulls to build on their recent victory and secure another win while covering the spread.

New York Knicks vs Washington Wizards Prediction NBA Picks 12/30/24

Knicks at Wizards at 7 PM ET

The New York Knicks are currently on an impressive winning streak, having claimed 12 victories in their last 14 games. They are set to pursue their eighth consecutive win after edging out the Wizards with a 136-132 overtime victory on Saturday. Jalen Brunson was instrumental in this success, scoring 55 points and dishing out nine assists with an impressive shooting performance of 18 out of 31. Furthermore, Karl-Anthony Towns contributed significantly with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and two blocks, while Mikal Bridges added 21 points to the scoreboard.

Currently, the Washington Wizards are struggling significantly, having recorded 24 losses in their first 29 games. They are hopeful for an improved performance after a close defeat to the Knicks on Saturday. Justin Champagnie excelled, leading the team with 31 points and 10 rebounds, achieving an outstanding shooting rate of 13 out of 15. Malcolm Brogdon supported the effort with 22 points and seven assists, while Bilal Coulibaly contributed 18 points and six assists. Carlton Carrington also made a valuable impact, scoring 17 points and delivering five assists.

The Pick:

It is essential to review the lineups prior to the tipoff, particularly due to the uncertainty surrounding the Knicks' Brunson's injury. If he is unable to play, I believe the Wizards have a reasonable opportunity to remain competitive in this matchup. While the Knicks typically dominate in their encounters with the Wizards, the latter demonstrated considerable resilience on Saturday, and I anticipate they can deliver a similar performance in this instance.

LA Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction NBA Picks 12/30/24

Clippers at Pelicans at 8 PM ET

The Los Angeles Clippers are gaining momentum, having won four out of their last five games. They are set to pursue a third straight victory after defeating the Warriors with a score of 102-92 on Friday. Norman Powell led the scoring with 26 points on 10 of 20 shooting, while James Harden added 18 points and seven assists. Ivica Zubac also made a notable contribution, recording 17 points, 11 rebounds, and five blocks.

The New Orleans Pelicans are currently experiencing a challenging season, having suffered defeats in 27 of their initial 32 games. They are eager to end a nine-game losing streak following a narrow 132-124 defeat to the Grizzlies on Friday. Trey Murphy was the standout performer for the team, scoring 35 points on 10 of 21 shooting, while CJ McCollum contributed 32 points on 12 of 22 shooting. Additionally, Dejounte Murray added 15 points, along with seven rebounds and nine assists.

The Pick:

Entering this encounter, the Clippers possess considerable momentum and a largely healthy lineup. Their defensive strength is expected to pose challenges for the Pelicans, who are significantly weakened due to the absence of several key players. Given that the point spread is not particularly steep, I am inclined to support the Clippers, as they have clearly outperformed their opponents and are currently exhibiting better overall play.

Denver Nuggets vs Utah Jazz Prediction NBA Picks 12/30/24

Nuggets at Jazz at 9 PM ET

The Denver Nuggets have demonstrated impressive form, winning six out of their last nine games. They are keen to continue this success after a commanding 134-121 home win against the Pistons on Saturday. Nikola Jokic was instrumental in the victory, scoring 37 points, along with nine rebounds and eight assists. Jamal Murray contributed 34 points with an efficient 12 of 21 shooting, and Michael Porter Jr. supported the effort with 26 points on nine of 14 shooting.

The Utah Jazz have been struggling lately, recording 11 losses in their last 14 games. They aim to avert a fourth consecutive defeat after a close 114-111 loss to the 76ers on Saturday. Lauri Markkanen was the top scorer for the team, netting 23 points, while Collin Sexton and Brice Sensabaugh each added 20 points. Jordan Clarkson also made a notable contribution with 17 points and four assists.

The Pick:

The Nuggets have not been performing at their peak, yet they are experiencing improved health and are entering this matchup following a commendable victory against the Pistons on Saturday. Conversely, the Jazz have endured a challenging season, suffering yet another defeat; however, they can draw some encouragement from their ability to compete closely with a strong 76ers team until the final moments. The betting line appears somewhat steep for this contest, but the Nuggets are beginning to regain their momentum, particularly with Jamal Murray displaying indications of a return to his previous form. Back Denver.

Dallas Mavericks vs Sacramento Kings Prediction NBA Picks 12/30/24

Mavericks at Kings at 10 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks triumphed over the Suns but faced a loss against the Trail Blazers. At present, the Mavericks are scoring an average of 117.7 points with a shooting accuracy of 48.4 percent, while they allow 111.5 points at a shooting rate of 45.3 percent. Luka Doncic is averaging 28.1 points along with 7.8 assists, and Kyrie Irving is contributing 24.6 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.

The Sacramento Kings faced defeats against the Lakers and the Pistons. They are currently averaging 115 points with a shooting percentage of 47.7, while their opponents score an average of 114.2 points on 46.6 percent shooting. De’Aaron Fox is leading the team with an average of 26.3 points and 5 rebounds, while Domantas Sabonis contributes 20.9 points and 13.5 rebounds.

The Pick:

The Kings are struggling significantly, having lost 7 out of their last 10 games, and they possess a season record of 10-21-1 against the spread. Furthermore, the organization has made the decision to terminate their head coach. Trade rumors are beginning to circulate regarding some players on the Kings roster, highlighting the chaotic state of affairs in Sacramento. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks continue to perform well, even without Luka, winning 6 of their last 9 matchups against the Kings. I suggest taking the points.

Philadelphia 76ers vs Portland Trail Blazers Prediction NBA Picks 12/30/24

76ers at Trail Blazers at 10 PM ET

The Philadelphia 76ers secured victories against both the Jazz and the Celtics. Currently, the team is averaging 106 points per game with a shooting percentage of 44.3, while conceding an average of 110.5 points on 47.7 percent shooting. Tyrese Maxey leads the team with an average of 26 points and 5.4 assists, whereas Joel Embiid contributes with 22.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

The Portland Trail Blazers achieved victories against the Jazz and Mavericks. They are currently averaging 108.3 points per game with a shooting percentage of 44.3, while their opponents are scoring an average of 117.1 points on 48 percent shooting. Shaedon Sharpe is averaging 18.1 points and 3.6 rebounds, and Anfernee Simons is contributing with averages of 17.2 points and 2.6 rebounds.

The Pick:

The Philadelphia 76ers are currently in good health and have achieved victories in 7 of their last 9 contests. This represents the highest level of performance the 76ers have demonstrated thus far. If they are intent on improving their standings, it is crucial for them to capitalize on these opportunities. While the Trail Blazers occasionally display a competent offense, I lack confidence in their ability to compete effectively against stronger teams. The betting line appears fair. I would favor the 76ers.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Golden State Warriors Prediction NBA Picks 12/30/24

Cavaliers at Warriors at 10 PM ET

The Cleveland Cavaliers triumphed over the Jazz and the Nuggets in recent matchups. They are presently averaging 121.5 points with a shooting accuracy of 50.4 percent, while their opponents score an average of 110.9 points at a shooting rate of 45.5 percent. Donovan Mitchell is averaging 23.6 points along with 4.7 assists, and Darius Garland is contributing 20.6 points and 6.4 assists per game.

The Golden State Warriors suffered a setback against the Clippers but managed to defeat the Suns. They are currently averaging 112 points with a shooting percentage of 44.7, while their opponents score an average of 110.5 points on 45.1 percent shooting. Stephen Curry's performance includes an average of 22.5 points and 6.5 assists, while Jonathan Kuminga averages 16.7 points and 2.1 assists.

The Pick:

The Cavaliers currently hold a record of 27 wins and 4 losses straight up, along with 22 wins and 9 losses against the spread this season. It is challenging to oppose the Cavaliers while they maintain their impressive winning and covering streak. Meanwhile, the Warriors have suffered defeats in 7 of their last 10 contests. The betting line appears to be fair. I predict a decisive road victory for the Cavaliers.