Free NBA Picks For Today, Thursday 12/19/2024

The NBA action is back in full swing today with a 13-game slate, and here you can check out the NBA Picks for Thursday 12/19/2024.

Utah Jazz vs Detroit Pistons Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Jazz at Pistons at 7 PM ET

The Utah Jazz have experienced a challenging start to the season, suffering defeats in 20 of their initial 25 games. Their struggles continued with a significant 144-107 loss to the Clippers on Monday. Jordan Clarkson was the standout performer for the team, contributing 20 points from the bench, while Lauri Markkanen added 17 points. Collin Sexton also made a notable contribution with 15 points, shooting seven of ten. However, Keyonte George faced difficulties, managing only two of eleven shooting for nine points, and Brice Sensabaugh struggled as well, scoring six points on two of nine shooting from the bench.

The Detroit Pistons find themselves in a difficult stretch, having suffered defeats in four of their last six contests. Nonetheless, they experienced a morale boost after securing a narrow 125-124 overtime triumph over the in-form Miami Heat on Monday. Malik Beasley led the scoring with 28 points, including seven three-pointers from nine attempts. Cade Cunningham delivered an impressive triple-double, recording 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 18 assists, while Ausar Thompson contributed 19 points, nine rebounds, and four steals.

The Pick:

This season, it has been challenging to confidently support either team; however, there is a growing sense of optimism within the Pistons organization, particularly following their remarkable overtime victory against the Heat. The betting line is sufficiently close for this matchup, leading me to believe that the Pistons will build on their recent success with another strong performance.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Orlando Magic Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Thunder at Magic at 7 PM ET

The Oklahoma City Thunder are currently in impressive form, having won nine of their last eleven games. Nevertheless, they are keen to rebound after their recent loss to the Bucks in the NBA Cup Final, which ended in a 97-81 scoreline on Tuesday. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the scoring with 21 points from eight of 24 shooting, Jalen Williams supported with 18 points, and Isaiah Hartenstein made a notable contribution with 16 points and 12 rebounds.

The Orlando Magic have seen a downturn in their performance after a successful six-game winning streak, now losing four out of their last six games. Their latest setback occurred against the Knicks, who defeated them 100-91 on Sunday. Moritz Wagner was the leading scorer for the Magic, amassing 32 points on 10 of 15 shooting, while Tristan da Silva added 20 points. Unfortunately, no other teammates reached double digits in scoring. Jaylen Suggs had a difficult outing, shooting only four of 19 from the field for a total of nine points before fouling out, and Anthony Black managed to score just four points on one of seven shooting.

The Pick:

This contest would have been an exciting clash earlier in the season, given the impressive displays from both teams. Unfortunately, the Magic are now grappling with injuries to three of their key players, which poses a significant hurdle against the surging Thunder, who are eager to rebound from one of their least favorable defeats this season. I anticipate that the Thunder will return to form with a decisive win and adequately cover the spread in this matchup.

Charlotte Hornets vs Washington Wizards Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Hornets at Wizards at 7 PM ET

The Charlotte Hornets are enduring a difficult period, having recorded losses in 10 of their last 11 games. They are looking to halt a potential third consecutive defeat after a significant 121-108 loss to the 76ers on Monday. Miles Bridges led the scoring for the team with 24 points, alongside six rebounds and four assists. Nick Richards added 19 points from the bench, and LaMelo Ball contributed 15 points and 11 assists to the overall performance.

The Washington Wizards find themselves in a challenging position, having lost 21 out of their first 24 games. They are determined to bounce back from another setback, following a substantial defeat to the Celtics, who triumphed 112-98 in their recent home game on Sunday. Jordan Poole led the scoring for the team with 21 points and provided seven assists, while Bilal Coulibaly contributed 19 points and six assists. Additionally, Alexandre Sarr added 14 points to the team’s efforts.

The Pick:

The Hornets have been in a downward spiral since the season began, recording losses in 10 of their last 11 games, and their recent outing against the 76ers on Monday did not inspire confidence. On the other hand, the Wizards have been even less successful, with only three victories to their name and currently facing injury issues that complicate their situation further. Although backing either team is fraught with uncertainty, the short line encourages me to support the Hornets in their quest for a much-needed win, especially with LaMelo Ball poised to have a significant impact.

Chicago Bulls vs Boston Celtics Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Bulls at Celtics at 7:30 PM ET

Recently, the Chicago Bulls have shown solid form, winning four out of their last six contests. They are looking to achieve a third consecutive victory after narrowly defeating the Raptors 122-121 in an away game on Monday. Nikola Vucevic led the scoring with 24 points on 10 of 17 shooting, while Coby White contributed 19 points and five assists. Ayo Dosunmu also made a notable contribution with 12 points and five assists.

The Boston Celtics have been on an impressive winning streak, having claimed victory in 12 of their last 14 games. They are looking to achieve a third consecutive win after defeating the struggling Wizards 112-98 on the road this past Sunday. Jayson Tatum was the team’s leading scorer with 28 points, complemented by 12 rebounds and two assists. Derrick White and Payton Pritchard each contributed 15 points, while Jrue Holiday added 12 points to the overall score.

The Pick:

Although the Bulls have struggled to find their rhythm in recent games, their triumph over the Raptors on Monday should instill a sense of confidence. Given the large point spread for this matchup, they are an appealing choice. The Celtics were anticipated to be overwhelming favorites at home, yet this line seems overly generous, leading me to back the Bulls with a considerable advantage in this scenario.

Brooklyn Nets vs Toronto Raptors Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Nets at Raptors at 7:30 PM ET

The Brooklyn Nets are currently facing a significant slump, having lost six of their last seven games. They are eager to end a three-game losing streak after suffering a heavy defeat to the Cavaliers, who won 130-101 on Monday. Cameron Johnson was the leading scorer for the team, recording 22 points and five assists. Day’Ron Sharpe added 15 points off the bench, while Ben Simmons contributed with 10 points and eight assists. On the other hand, Keon Johnson had a quiet performance, scoring only five points on two of eight shooting, and Shake Milton struggled, hitting just two of nine shots from the field.

The Toronto Raptors are facing a tough stretch, having lost eight of their last eleven games. They are determined to end a five-game losing streak after narrowly falling to the Bulls, 122-121, on Monday. RJ Barrett was the leading scorer for the Raptors, amassing 32 points and nine assists on 11 of 24 shooting. Gradey Dick added 27 points to the tally, while Ochai Agbaji contributed 15 points, shooting six of ten from the field.

The Pick:

The Nets find themselves in a dire situation, coming off yet another heavy loss. They have decided to release Dennis Schroder, who had been a valuable contributor this season. Meanwhile, the Raptors have faced their own challenges with injuries, but the close betting line suggests a potential advantage for them. Consequently, I am leaning towards the Raptors to get a win at home.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Houston Rockets Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Pelicans at Rockets at 8 PM ET

This season has proven to be quite disappointing for the New Orleans Pelicans, who have recorded 22 losses in their first 27 games. They are striving to avoid a fifth straight loss after being decisively defeated by the Pacers, with a score of 119-104 in their latest road game on Sunday. Brandon Boston led the scoring for the team with 20 points off the bench, while both Herbert Jones and Dejounte Murray scored 19 points, and Trey Murphy added 16 points to the tally.

Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets have been in decent form as they’ve won five of their last eight games overall, but they will be eager to bounce back after having their two-game win streak halted by the Thunder in a 111-96 road defeat on Saturday. Amen Thompson led the team with 19 points on nine of 15 shooting off the bench, Jabari Smith Jr and Dillon Brooks each scored 14 points while Alperen Sengun chipped in with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals. As a team, the Rockets shot just 36 percent from the field and 11 of 46 from the 3-point line as they played great defense early on and held the Thunder to just 18 points in the first quarter to take the early lead, only to get blown out by 70-54 in the second half. Dillon Brooks was battling foul trouble all night and shot just five of 17 from the field, while Fred VanVleet shot just three of 15 from the field to finish with just eight points. 

The Pick:

While the Pelicans have the ability to secure an unexpected win on the road, the Rockets are favored to triumph at home. I anticipate that they will respond effectively with a significant home victory in this context.

Golden State Warriors vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Warriors at Grizzlies at 8 PM ET

The Golden State Warriors are currently facing difficulties, having lost eight of their last ten games. They seek to avert a third consecutive loss after being decisively beaten by the Mavericks, who won 143-133 on Sunday. Andrew Wiggins was the top scorer for the Warriors, netting 29 points on 11 of 20 shooting. Stephen Curry contributed 26 points along with 10 assists, Draymond Green scored 21 points from the bench, and Jonathan Kuminga added 20 points and six assists to the team’s total.

The Memphis Grizzlies have been on an impressive run, achieving victories in 10 of their last 12 games. However, they are eager to recover in this upcoming match after their four-game winning streak was broken by the Lakers, who defeated them 116-110 in a road game on Sunday. Jaren Jackson Jr. was the top scorer for the team, netting 25 points on nine of 13 shooting. Ja Morant also made a notable contribution with 20 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, while Zach Edey added 13 points and 10 rebounds from the bench.

The Pick:

The Warriors are in urgent need of a victory to regain momentum in their season; however, the Grizzlies were performing exceptionally well prior to their recent defeat. Therefore, I am inclined to favor the more reliable Grizzlies to secure the win and cover the modest spread at home.

Atlanta Hawks vs San Antonio Spurs Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Hawks at Spurs at 8 PM ET

The Atlanta Hawks triumphed over the Knicks but faced a loss against the Bucks. At present, the Hawks are scoring an average of 116.7 points with a shooting accuracy of 46.1 percent, while allowing 119.1 points with an opponent shooting percentage of 46.9. Trae Young is averaging 21 points along with 3.9 rebounds, and Jalen Johnson is contributing 19.8 points and 10.1 rebounds per game.

The San Antonio Spurs secured a victory against the Trail Blazers but suffered a defeat to the Timberwolves. Currently, the Spurs are averaging 111.6 points per game with a shooting percentage of 45.6, while they are permitting 113.2 points on 46.8 percent shooting. Victor Wembanyama is contributing an average of 23.8 points and 10.2 rebounds, whereas Devin Vassell is averaging 17.2 points along with 3 assists.

The Pick:

The Spurs continue to display a variable performance, making them challenging to depend on from game to game. Conversely, the Atlanta Hawks have been excelling in their play recently, winning 7 of their last 9 contests. Most of these victories have been against credible playoff teams. I am opting to back the Hawks.

LA Clippers vs Dallas Mavericks Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Clippers at Mavericks at 8:30 PM ET

The LA Clippers faced a loss to the Nuggets but triumphed over the Jazz. At present, the team averages 108.3 points with a shooting accuracy of 46.2 percent, while allowing 107.9 points at a shooting rate of 46.6 percent. Norman Powell is posting an average of 23.2 points and 3 rebounds, while James Harden contributes 21.4 points and 6.7 rebounds per game.

The Dallas Mavericks achieved a win against the Warriors but were defeated by the Thunder. They are currently averaging 118.5 points with a shooting percentage of 48.7, while their opponents are scoring an average of 111.7 points on 45 percent shooting. Luka Doncic is leading the team with an average of 28.1 points and 7.9 assists, while Kyrie Irving is contributing 24 points and 4.8 rebounds.

The Pick:

The rationale behind this line is questionable, as Luka has been officially ruled out and Kyrie’s availability is in doubt due to a shoulder issue. It is difficult to understand how this line is determined when the Mavericks could be without their two best players. It is essential to check the injury report before making any bets. I am backing the Clippers to cover.

Indiana Pacers vs Phoenix Suns Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Pacers at Suns at 9 PM ET

The Indiana Pacers secured victories against both the 76ers and the Pelicans. Currently, the Pacers are averaging 114.3 points per game with a shooting percentage of 48.8, while they are permitting an average of 117.8 points on 48.4 percent shooting. Pascal Siakam contributes an average of 19.8 points and 6.6 rebounds, whereas Tyrese Haliburton averages 18 points and 3.3 rebounds.

The Phoenix Suns achieved victories against the Jazz and the Trail Blazers. They are currently averaging 113.3 points with a shooting percentage of 46.9, while their opponents are scoring an average of 113.5 points on 46.5 percent shooting. Kevin Durant’s performance includes an average of 25.8 points and 6.7 rebounds, while Devin Booker averages 25.1 points and 3.8 rebounds.

The Pick:

The Indiana Pacers have been grappling with their own issues, especially regarding their defense, yet they have quietly triumphed in three of their last four games, reflecting some advancement. The Suns are anticipated to perform well offensively against the Pacers, but the reverse scenario is equally plausible. A high-scoring affair is on the horizon, and I suggest considering the points with the Pacers.

New York Knicks vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Knicks at Timberwolves at 9:30 PM ET

The New York Knicks secured a victory against the Orlando Magic but suffered a defeat to the Atlanta Hawks. Currently, the Knicks are averaging 117 points per game with a shooting percentage of 49.8, while they permit an average of 110.9 points on 46.4 percent shooting. Karl-Anthony Towns is contributing an average of 24.9 points and 13.6 rebounds, whereas Jalen Brunson is averaging 24.7 points along with 7.8 assists.

The Minnesota Timberwolves triumphed over the Lakers and the Spurs in recent matchups. At present, the Timberwolves are scoring an average of 110 points with a shooting accuracy of 46.2 percent, while they allow 106.2 points at a shooting rate of 45.6 percent. Anthony Edwards is leading the team with an average of 26.3 points and 5.4 rebounds, while Julius Randle contributes 20.5 points and 4 assists per game.

The Pick:

The New York Knicks possess superior talent throughout their roster, making it advantageous to receive points with the more skilled team. Additionally, this matchup is expected to be intense due to the trade that occurred a few months prior. We have already witnessed these teams compete vigorously during the preseason. This promises to be an exciting game, and I am inclined to take the Knicks with the points.

Denver Nuggets vs Portland Trail Blazers Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Nuggets at Trail Blazers at 10 PM ET

The Denver Nuggets have emerged victorious against the Clippers and the Kings. They are currently averaging 117.9 points with a shooting efficiency of 48.6 percent, while their opponents are scoring an average of 116.8 points on 47 percent shooting. Nikola Jokic is performing exceptionally, averaging 29.9 points and 13.4 rebounds, alongside Michael Porter Jr., who averages 19 points and 7.2 rebounds.

The Portland Trail Blazers suffered defeats against both the Spurs and the Suns. Currently, the team is averaging 106.8 points per game with a shooting percentage of 43.8, while they are conceding an average of 116.1 points on 47.5 percent shooting. Anfernee Simons contributes an average of 17.1 points and 2.6 rebounds, whereas Shaedon Sharpe averages 17 points and 3.4 rebounds.

The Pick:

The Portland Trail Blazers are struggling significantly on both offense and defense, having suffered seven consecutive defeats against the Denver Nuggets. In contrast, the Nuggets have not only won their last three games but have also successfully covered the spread in each instance. Their recent victory over the Kings served as a significant morale booster, characterized by a series of critical shots during a comeback. This type of performance may represent a pivotal moment in their season. Go with the Nuggets.

LA Lakers vs Sacramento Kings Prediction NBA Picks 12/19/24

Lakers at Kings at 10 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers faced a loss to the Timberwolves but managed to triumph over the Grizzlies. At present, the team averages 111.1 points with a shooting accuracy of 47.1 percent, while allowing 115 points at a shooting percentage of 48.1. Anthony Davis is leading the team with an average of 27.3 points and 11.2 rebounds, while LeBron James contributes with an average of 23 points and 8 rebounds.

The Sacramento Kings secured a victory against the Pelicans but suffered a defeat to the Nuggets. Currently, the Kings are averaging 116.2 points per game with a shooting percentage of 48.3, while they are permitting 113.1 points on 46 percent shooting. De’Aaron Fox is contributing an average of 26.1 points and 5.1 rebounds, whereas DeMar DeRozan is averaging 22.8 points and 3.9 rebounds.

The Pick:

The Lakers have recently achieved a decisive victory over the Grizzlies and are nearing their full strength. One could contend that they are a superior team compared to the Kings. The Kings, on the other hand, seem to be facing difficulties in their performance and are struggling defensively. I would recommend placing a bet on the Lakers along with the points in a game where they are likely to secure an outright win.