Darren's Takes: NBA Week 1/13

Published: Monday, January 13, 2025

by Darren Worrell

Welcome back to Darren’s Takes! Week 12 was a treat, highlighted by the thrilling battle between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder—a game that might go down as one of the best this season.

And guess what? Week 13 is shaping up to be just as exciting. I’ve decided to switch things up. Instead of focusing only on Mondays and Tuesdays, I’ll now highlight key games throughout the week because, let’s face it, the action doesn’t stop midweek!

With that, let’s dive into Week 13. It’s time for Darren’s Takes!

Monday’s Key Game: San Antonio Spurs vs. Los Angeles Lakers

The San Antonio Spurs (18-19, 12th in the Western Conference) visit the Los Angeles Lakers (20-16, 6th in the Western Conference) on Monday.

The Spurs are coming off a 121-105 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks but remain competitive, led by star center Victor Wembanyama. The French standout has been sensational, averaging 25 points and a league-best 4 blocks per game. In addition to Wembanyama, six Spurs players average double figures, showcasing a balanced scoring attack.

The Lakers rely heavily on their dynamic duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. James, at 40 years old, continues to excel as the team’s leader in scoring and playmaking. Davis provides elite defense and interior scoring, while Austin Reaves has emerged as a key contributor, averaging 18 points per game and delivering in clutch moments. Los Angeles looks to rebound after a 118-97 loss to the Dallas Mavericks, who were without Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving.

Key Matchup: LeBron James vs. Victor Wembanyama

This generational battle pits LeBron James' all-time greatness against Victor Wembanyama's rising stardom. LeBron’s unmatched basketball IQ and versatility will test the Frenchman's defensive awareness, while Wembanyama’s shot-blocking ability and inside presence will force LeBron to adapt. This clash could symbolize the passing of the torch from one superstar to the next.

Darren’s Prediction:

The Lakers' star power and experience should give them the edge in this matchup, but Wembanyama will continue to showcase his immense potential. Final score: Lakers 118, Spurs 105.

Thursday’s Key Game: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

The Cavaliers boast an impressive 33-5 record, leading the Eastern Conference. Their offense averages 122.9 points per game, ranking second in the league, while their defense allows 111.4 points per game, 12th-best in the NBA. Donovan Mitchell leads Cleveland with 22.8 points per game, while Darius Garland adds 20.9 points and 6.7 assists. The frontcourt duo of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen combine for more than 19 rebounds per game, anchoring a strong interior presence.

The Thunder, sitting atop the Western Conference with a 32-6 record, are just as dominant. Their elite defense allows only 103.6 points per game, the second-best mark in the NBA. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the team with 31 points per game, while Jalen Williams contributes 20.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.2 assists. Oklahoma City enters the game fresh off a 136-95 win over the Wizards and will look to avenge a Jan. 8 loss to the Cavaliers.

Key Matchup: Donovan Mitchell vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Two of the league’s most dynamic guards face off in this high-stakes rematch. Mitchell’s explosive scoring and clutch play will test Oklahoma City’s defense, while Gilgeous-Alexander’s smooth drives, midrange precision, and knack for getting to the free-throw line make him nearly unguardable. Both players lead their teams and can dictate the outcome.

Darren’s Prediction:

This is a matchup of two powerhouse teams, but the Thunder’s home-court advantage gives them a slight edge. Expect a tight game, with Oklahoma City pulling away late to win 118-115.

Friday’s Key Game: Minnesota Timberwolves vs. New York Knicks

The Minnesota Timberwolves (20-18) sit eighth in the Western Conference. They average 109.3 points per game and rank fourth in the league defensively, allowing 107.7 points per game. Anthony Edwards continues to shine in his fourth season, leading the team with 25.4 points per game. Julius Randle, now with the Timberwolves, contributes 19.6 points per game and bolsters the frontcourt.

The New York Knicks (26-14) are third in the Eastern Conference. They are coming off a dominant 140-106 win over the Milwaukee Bucks, with Jalen Brunson scoring 44 points in a statement performance. The Knicks average 116.6 points per game with a balanced attack led by Brunson (25.5 PPG) and Karl-Anthony Towns (25.4 PPG). Towns has fit in seamlessly since joining the Knicks, providing scoring and rebounding.

Key Matchup: Anthony Edwards vs. Jalen Brunson

This battle features two players at the peak of their game. Edwards' explosive athleticism and three-level scoring make him a threat on every possession, while Brunson’s poise, playmaking and clutch ability fuel the Knicks. Both players can take over the game, making this matchup critical to the outcome.

Darren’s Prediction:

The Knicks’ depth and home-court advantage will be too much for the Timberwolves to overcome. Final score: Knicks 120, Timberwolves 110.

That’s it for this week’s Darren’s Takes! Check back next week for more matchups, predictions, and hot takes. Have a great week and enjoy the games!

Darren Worrell can be reached at darren.worrell@student.shu.edu.

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