October 28, 2024 at 10:15 PM EDT
A new week in the NBA tips off with 11 games, and here you can check out the NBA Picks for Monday 10/28/2024.
Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Pacers at Magic at 7 PM ET
The Indiana Pacers seek to avoid a third straight loss after suffering a heartbreaking 118-114 overtime defeat against the 76ers last night. Tyrese Haliburton led the scoring for the team with 22 points on eight of 18 shooting. Additionally, Pascal Siakam provided 17 points and six assists, while Myles Turner contributed 14 points. Although Haliburton made a pivotal shot to tie the game and push it into overtime, the Pacers could not fend off the depleted 76ers, who managed to clinch the win in the final moments.
The Orlando Magic began their season successfully with two straight wins; however, they are now seeking to recover from a heavy defeat against the Grizzlies, who triumphed 124-111 in a road game on Saturday. Franz Wagner led the team with an impressive performance, recording 23 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Jalen Suggs contributed significantly with 21 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, while Paolo Banchero added 16 points. Conversely, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had a challenging game, scoring only three points on one of six shooting, and Jalen Suggs finished with a shooting percentage of just six out of 17.
The Pick:
The Pacers are likely to feel a sense of disappointment after failing to secure a victory against the undermanned 76ers last night. However, they will need to quickly shift their focus, as they are set to face the Magic next. At this point in the season, it is challenging to differentiate between the two teams, yet the Magic have demonstrated superior performance thus far, having played exceptionally well prior to their loss against the Grizzlies. Additionally, the Magic benefit from an extra day of rest and the advantage of playing at home, leading me to support their chances of winning in this matchup.
Washington Wizards vs Atlanta Hawks Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Wizards at Hawks at 7:30 PM ET
The Washington Wizards are looking to bounce back from a second consecutive defeat, having suffered a heavy loss to the Cavaliers with a score of 135-116 in their home arena on Saturday. Bilal Coulibaly led the scoring for the team, achieving 23 points on nine of 16 shooting. Jordan Poole supported with 14 points, six assists, and three steals, while Alex Sarr contributed 12 points, six rebounds, and two blocks. Kyle Kuzma faced challenges in his performance, scoring only 14 points on three of 16 shooting, and Keyonte George had a minimal impact, recording just two points on zero of seven shooting from the bench.
The Atlanta Hawks approach this game after experiencing their first loss of the season, having been decisively defeated by the Thunder with a final score of 128-104 last night. Trae Young led the team with 24 points and eight assists, achieving a shooting accuracy of 50%. Onyeka Okongwu and Garrison Matthews each contributed 14 points, while Zaccharie Risacher added 13 points to the tally. Jalen Johnson faced difficulties, scoring only seven points on three of 13 shooting, and Young’s performance was marred by 10 turnovers.
The Pick:
The Wizards are still without Malcolm Brogdon and Saddiq Bey, while the Hawks continue to miss De’Andre Hunter, Cody Zeller, and Bogdan Bogdanovic. The Wizards have struggled to gain momentum, particularly following their recent blowout loss to the Cavaliers on Saturday. In contrast, the Hawks were pursuing a third straight win but encountered a setback in last night’s disappointing defeat to the Thunder. Although the Hawks are playing on no days’ rest, it remains early in the season. Therefore, I cautiously anticipate that they will rebound and achieve a victory, with Young likely to have a significant impact as he seeks to rectify his performance from the previous game.
Milwaukee Bucks vs Boston Celtics Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Bucks at Celtics at 7:30 PM ET
The Milwaukee Bucks find themselves facing challenges as they seek to end a two-game losing streak following a disappointing 115-102 defeat to the Nets last night. Giannis Antetokounmpo was the standout performer for the team, recording 22 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists. Damian Lillard contributed 21 points along with four assists, while Brook Lopez added 15 points. Bobby Portis also made a notable impact off the bench, finishing with 16 points and 10 rebounds. In contrast, Gary Trent Jr. had a difficult outing, scoring only nine points on two of eight shooting, and Taurean Prince managed just three points in 34 minutes of play.
The Boston Celtics are aiming for their fourth consecutive win after edging past the tenacious Pistons with a score of 124-118 on Saturday. Jayson Tatum led the charge with an impressive 37 points on 12 of 26 shooting. Jaylen Brown contributed significantly with 24 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists. Payton Pritchard added 19 points to the tally, while both Al Horford and Derrick White scored 17 points each.
The Pick:
The Bucks have yet to establish any significant momentum, and their lackluster performance in last night’s loss to the struggling Nets—a team they previously swept 3-0 last season—was particularly alarming. Conversely, the Celtics have risen to prominence as the league’s most in-form team, despite facing some injury challenges. It is not surprising that they are considered heavy favorites in this contest. Although the Bucks might have the potential to achieve an upset on the road if they were at their best, they are currently far from that standard. The Celtics are clearly playing superior basketball, and their home advantage makes them a formidable opponent. Therefore, I am inclined to back the Celtics in this matchup.
Denver Nuggets vs Toronto Raptors Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Nuggets at Raptors at 7:30 PM ET
The Denver Nuggets are currently experiencing a downturn in performance, seeking to end a two-game losing streak following a 109-104 loss at home to a shorthanded Clippers team on Saturday. Nikola Jokic was the standout player, scoring 41 points, along with nine rebounds and four assists on 14 of 26 shooting. Jamal Murray contributed 22 points and five assists, while Christian Braun added 11 points. However, Michael Porter Jr. continued to face difficulties, managing only nine points on four of 13 shooting from the field and failing to make any of his six attempts from beyond the arc.
Currently, the Toronto Raptors are facing a tough start to their season, having lost two of their initial three games. They are eager to recover from a heavy defeat against the Timberwolves, which ended in a 112-101 scoreline on Saturday. Gradey Dick led the scoring for the Raptors with 25 points, achieving nine of 16 shooting. Scottie Barnes added a solid performance with 20 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, while Ochai Agabji contributed 19 points, shooting eight of 12.
The Pick:
Despite the tough beginning, the Nuggets may see a favorable opportunity against a struggling Raptors squad that is still without several key contributors. While the point spread is somewhat significant for a team playing on the road, the Nuggets are in desperate need of a decisive victory to regain momentum in their season, as the Raptors’ injury woes limit their ability to compete effectively.
Detroit Pistons vs Miami Heat Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Pistons at Heat at 7:30 PM ET
The Detroit Pistons continue their quest for their inaugural victory of the season, yet they demonstrated considerable competitiveness in their 124-118 defeat against the Celtics on Saturday. Jaden Ivey was the standout performer, contributing 26 points and six assists on 10 of 18 shooting. Cade Cunningham supported the effort with 21 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists, while Malik Beasley made a notable impact off the bench, scoring 17 points in only 20 minutes of play.
The Miami Heat will be keen to gain momentum following their 114-106 victory over the Hornets on Saturday. Jimmy Butler was the standout performer, contributing 26 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists. Tyler Herro supported the effort with 22 points and five assists, while Terry Rozier added 19 points to the scoreboard.
The Pick:
The Pistons would have likely drawn a great deal of confidence from their close encounter with the impressive Celtics in their last outing. However, it will be a significant challenge to replicate that performance against the Heat, who have just achieved a respectable win on the road. While the Heat are expected to triumph at home, the betting line appears a bit excessive, suggesting that the Pistons have proven they can remain competitive and create difficulties for their opponents.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs New York Knicks Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Cavaliers at Knicks at 7:30 PM ET
The Cleveland Cavaliers aim to achieve their fourth consecutive win following a comfortable 135-116 victory over the lowly Wizards on Saturday. Donovan Mitchell was the standout performer, scoring 30 points and providing five assists and four steals. Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen each added 23 points to the scoreboard, while Evan Mobley made a notable contribution with 13 points, 13 rebounds, and four assists.
Following a commanding 123-98 home victory against the Pacers on Friday, the New York Knicks are keen to maintain their momentum. Jalen Brunson led the charge with 26 points and five assists. Karl-Anthony Towns supported the effort with 21 points, 15 rebounds, and two blocks, while Mikal Bridges contributed 21 points on eight of 12 shooting. Furthermore, Josh Hart added to the team’s success with 20 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists.
The Pick:
The Cavaliers have had a promising beginning to their season, capitalizing on it with three consecutive victories by double digits. Nevertheless, the upcoming matches present a greater challenge, particularly with the Knicks showcasing impressive performance in their recent victory on Friday. Despite this, I remain inclined to support the Cavaliers, who offer considerable value as underdogs in this matchup. While I understand the rationale behind the Knicks being favored at home, the points offered for the Cavaliers are too appealing to overlook.
Houston Rockets vs San Antonio Spurs Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Rockets at Spurs at 8 PM ET
The Houston Rockets secured a victory against the Grizzlies but suffered a defeat to the Spurs. Currently, the team is averaging 113 points per game with a shooting percentage of 40.6, while they permit an average of 109 points on 45.1 percent shooting. Jalen Green leads the team with an average of 26.3 points and 4.7 rebounds, whereas Fred VanVleet contributes 16 points and 3 rebounds per game. The Rockets are making 33.9 percent of their three-point attempts and achieving a free-throw percentage of 75.3. Defensively, they allow opponents to shoot 37.9 percent from beyond the arc and secure an average of 47 rebounds each game.
The San Antonio Spurs suffered a loss to the Mavericks but managed to defeat the Rockets. They are currently averaging 109 points per game with a shooting percentage of 47.3 while allowing 113 points at a shooting percentage of 41.2. Victor Wembanyama is averaging 23 points and 8 rebounds, while Jeremy Sochan contributes an average of 17.5 points and 2.5 assists. The Spurs are shooting 35.7 percent from three-point territory and 80.8 percent from the free-throw line. Additionally, they are permitting 37.6 percent shooting from beyond the arc and securing an average of 50.5 rebounds per game.
The Pick:
The Rockets remain the superior and more well-rounded team, making them the likely victors in this matchup. The recent game on Saturday was closely contested. Additionally, the Rockets have triumphed in five of their last seven encounters with the Spurs. It is only a question of time before the Rockets improve their offensive performance. The stakes are not particularly high. I support the Rockets.
Chicago Bulls vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Bulls at Grizzlies at 8 PM ET
The Chicago Bulls triumphed over the Bucks but faced a loss against the Thunder. They are set to compete against the Nets and the Magic in their next games. The team is currently averaging 113 points with a shooting accuracy of 43.8 percent, while they allow 120 points at a shooting rate of 45.8 percent. Zach LaVine is the standout player, averaging 24.7 points and 6.3 rebounds, while Nikola Vucevic contributes 20.3 points and 2.3 assists. The Bulls have a three-point shooting percentage of 34.3 and a free-throw percentage of 75.7. On the defensive end, they permit 29.9 percent shooting from three-point range and average 51.3 rebounds per game.
The Memphis Grizzlies suffered a loss to the Rockets but managed to defeat the Magic. They are currently averaging 119.3 points per game with a shooting percentage of 47.4 while allowing 121 points at a rate of 44.4 percent. Ja Morant averages 20.7 points and 2.3 rebounds, and Desmond Bane contributes 18 points and 3.3 assists. The team has a three-point shooting percentage of 37.4 and a free-throw percentage of 69.6. Defensively, the Grizzlies allow opponents to shoot 37.6 percent from beyond the arc and average 42 rebounds per game.
The Pick:
The Grizzlies are facing significant challenges due to numerous injuries within their roster. Among those listed is Morant, who is experiencing soreness in his right thigh. It is advisable to review the injury report prior to making any commitments; however, as of the publication of this article and given the current circumstances, I am inclined to support the Bulls.
Utah Jazz vs Dallas Mavericks Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Jazz at Mavericks at 8:30 PM ET
The Utah Jazz faced losses against the Grizzlies and the Warriors. At present, the team averages 105 points per game with a shooting efficiency of 39 percent, while they permit an average of 126.5 points on 47.7 percent shooting. Lauri Markkanen is the standout player, averaging 24 points and 8.5 rebounds, while Jordan Clarkson contributes 14 points and 3 rebounds. The Jazz’s performance from three-point range is at 27.9 percent, and they achieve a free throw percentage of 74.6. On the defensive end, they allow 38.9 percent shooting from long distance and collect an average of 47 rebounds per game.
The Dallas Mavericks secured a victory against the Spurs but suffered a defeat to the Suns. Currently, the Mavericks are averaging 111 points per game with a shooting percentage of 40.5, while they are conceding an average of 111.5 points on 45.2 percent shooting. Luka Doncic leads the team with an average of 34 points and 6 assists, whereas Klay Thompson contributes with 20.5 points and 5 rebounds. The Mavericks are making 37.6 percent of their three-point attempts and achieving a free throw percentage of 78. Additionally, they are allowing opponents to shoot 34.7 percent from beyond the arc and are securing 48 rebounds per game.
The Pick:
The Dallas Mavericks will be keen to erase the unpleasant memory of their recent defeat to the Suns. They possess the offensive capabilities to overwhelm the Jazz in a manner akin to the Warriors’ performance. While the point spread may be significant, it is within the Mavericks’ reach if they can find their shooting rhythm. I predict a decisive victory for the Mavericks at home.
Portland Trail Blazers vs Sacramento Kings Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Trail Blazers at Kings at 10 PM ET
The Portland Trail Blazers suffered a loss to the Warriors and recorded a split in their two matchups against the Pelicans. The team is currently averaging 111 points per game with a shooting accuracy of 42.2 percent, while they allow 116 points at a rate of 45.7 percent shooting. Jerami Grant is the standout player, averaging 25 points and 4 rebounds, while Anfernee Simons contributes 19.5 points and 1.5 rebounds. The Blazers have a three-point shooting percentage of 33 percent and a free-throw percentage of 79.3. On the defensive end, they permit 36.7 percent shooting from three-point range and average 47 rebounds per game.
The Sacramento Kings faced losses against the Timberwolves and the Lakers. They are currently averaging 121 points per game with a shooting accuracy of 48.8 percent while allowing 124 points at a shooting rate of 50 percent. Domantas Sabonis is performing notably, averaging 26.5 points and 10 rebounds, while DeMar DeRozan averages 24.5 points and 4 rebounds. The team has a three-point shooting percentage of 35.6 percent and an impressive free-throw percentage of 83.3 percent. On the defensive end, the Kings permit 40.5 percent shooting from three-point range and average 35 rebounds per game.
The Pick:
The Trail Blazers participated in a game last night and are scheduled to play their third match within a span of four days. Given this context, it seems excessive to allocate such a significant number of points to a Trail Blazers team that has shown competitive spirit over the course of three games and could have potentially achieved a sweep against the Pelicans. Additionally, the Kings have not demonstrated strong defensive capabilities in their last two games. Therefore, I am taking a chance with the points and supporting the Blazers.
LA Lakers vs Phoenix Suns Prediction NBA Picks 10/28/24
Lakers at Suns at 10 PM ET
The Los Angeles Lakers triumphed over the Kings and the Suns in their recent matchups. The team is currently posting an average of 121.3 points per game, with a shooting efficiency of 49.6 percent, while permitting 115.4 points at a shooting rate of 47.8 percent. Anthony Davis is performing exceptionally, averaging 34 points and 11 rebounds, while LeBron James contributes with 23 points and 7.7 rebounds. The Lakers are shooting 36.3 percent from three-point range and 80.7 percent from the free-throw line. On the defensive end, they are allowing a 36.9 percent shooting rate from long distance and are averaging 42.7 rebounds per game.
The Phoenix Suns achieved a win against the Mavericks but were defeated by the Lakers. They are currently averaging 115.3 points per game with a shooting percentage of 48.3 while allowing 113 points on 45.8 percent shooting from their opponents. Kevin Durant is averaging 28.7 points and 6.7 rebounds, and Devin Booker contributes with 19.7 points and 2.7 rebounds. The team has a three-point shooting percentage of 40.4 and a free-throw shooting percentage of 77.3. Defensively, the Suns permit 36.1 percent shooting from beyond the arc and average 41 rebounds per game.
The Pick:
Both AD and LeBron have commenced the season with impressive performances, seemingly determined to secure as many victories as possible in the early stages. One notable victory was achieved against the Suns, marking the Lakers’ success in 6 of their last 8 encounters with Phoenix. Additionally, there is a possibility that the Suns may be without Beal. Having already supported the Lakers on several occasions this season, I am inclined to continue backing their momentum. I will take the opportunity for a free point.