Darren's Takes: NBA Week 1/27

Published: Wednesday, January 29, 2025

by Darren Worrell

Week 14 brought the highly anticipated matchup between the defending champion Boston Celtics and their rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers. While many, including me, expected the Celtics to come out on top, the Lakers had other plans, cruising to a dominant 117-96 win. LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves each scored more than 20 points in an impressive team performance. 

Now, with Week 14 behind us, it's time to dive into Week 15 with new matchups, predictions, and plenty of fresh takes. Let's get into it!

Wednesday's Key Games

Denver Nuggets vs. New York Knicks (A Battle in the Big Apple)

The Denver Nuggets (28-18) enter this matchup fourth in the Western Conference, looking to bounce back after a 129-121 loss to the Chicago Bulls. Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic continues to be the team's centerpiece, leading in points, assists, rebounds, and steals. Jokic is putting up remarkable numbers, averaging a triple-double with 30 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists per game. The Nuggets also benefit from five other players scoring in double figures, providing the depth necessary to compete against a tough Knicks squad.

The Knicks (31-16) hold the third spot in the Eastern Conference and are aiming to extend their winning streak to five games after a 143-106 blowout victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. Jalen Brunson continues to lead the team with 25.8 points and 7.4 assists per game. Karl-Anthony Towns has also been a standout, contributing 24.9 points and leading the team in rebounds with 13.8 per game. The Knicks' balanced defense could present significant challenges for Denver in this highly anticipated matchup.

Key Matchup: Nikola Jokic vs. Karl-Anthony Towns

This matchup features two of the league's best big men, each unique in their own way. Jokic's ability to score, facilitate, and control the game makes him a nightmare for any opponent. On the other hand, Towns' versatility is unmatched. He can stretch the floor with his shooting, dominate inside, and make an impact on the boards. While Jokic may have the edge in playmaking, Towns’ scoring versatility and perimeter defense could pose a challenge.

Darren’s Prediction

The Nuggets are a solid team with the reigning MVP leading the charge. However, the Knicks’ strong defense, depth, and the energy of the New York crowd give them an edge. Denver will put up a fight, but I see the Knicks pulling away late.

Final Score: Knicks 115, Nuggets 110.

Friday’s Key Games

Milwaukee Bucks vs. San Antonio Spurs (The Vets vs. the Rising Stars)

The Milwaukee Bucks (26-18) enter the game as one of the top teams in the league, holding the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference. Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to lead the team, averaging 31.5 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. His dominance in the paint and ability to run the floor make him nearly unstoppable.

The San Antonio Spurs (20-23) are in the midst of a rebuilding year and have dropped eight of their last nine games, including a 136-98 loss to the Indiana Pacers. French sensation Victor Wembanyama has been a bright spot, averaging 24.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.9 blocks per game. Despite their struggles, Wembanyama’s potential and two-way impact make the Spurs a team worth watching.

Key Matchup: Giannis Antetokounmpo vs. Victor Wembanyama 

This game gives us a fascinating matchup between one of the league’s most dominant stars and its most exciting young prospect. Giannis’ power, athleticism, and ability to attack the rim will test Wembanyama’s length and defensive abilities. On the other side, Wemby’s versatility and outside shooting could force Giannis to defend on the perimeter, an area where he is not as comfortable. This battle of the big men could set the tone for the game and give us a glimpse into the league’s present vs future. 

Darren’s Prediction

The Spurs have a promising young core, but the Bucks are simply on another level. Giannis will be too much to handle for San Antonio’s defense, and Milwaukee’s supporting cast, led by Damian Lillard and Khris Middleton, provides the kind of depth the Spurs just do not have. The Bucks will control this game from start to finish. Final Score: Bucks 123, Spurs 104. 

That is, it for this week’s edition of Darren’s Takes! Be sure to check back next week for more matchups, predictions, and hot takes. Have an amazing week and enjoy the games! 

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

Posted in: sports,