Darren's Takes: NBA Week 12/16

Published: Monday, December 16, 2024

by Darren Worrell

Welcome back to Darren’s Takes, your weekly breakdown of key NBA games and player matchups. Week 8 brought thrilling Emirates Cup action, highlighted by the Bucks-Magic quarterfinal, where Orlando fought hard despite missing Franz Wagner. On Saturday, the Bucks and Thunder secured spots in the Cup final, setting up an exciting showdown.

Now, with Week 8 behind us, it’s time to dive into the fresh matchups and player showdowns of Week 9. Let’s get started!

Monday’s Key Games

Denver Nuggets vs. Sacramento Kings: The Contenders and The Underdogs

The Denver Nuggets, led by two-time MVP Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray, visit the Sacramento Kings in a key matchup. Denver, rebounding from a slow start, looks like the powerhouse many expected, with Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon adding depth to a dynamic offense.

Meanwhile, the Kings, sitting at 12th in the West, aim to prove they belong among the elite. De’Aaron Fox’s explosive play and Domantas Sabonis’ dominance fuel their fast-paced style, which could challenge Denver’s transition defense. Sacramento’s ability to capitalize on open-court opportunities will be crucial against the Nuggets’ well-rounded roster.

Key Matchup: Domantas Sabonis vs. Nikola Jokic 

This matchup is undoubtedly the highlight of the game, featuring two of the NBA’s most skilled big men: Domantas Sabonis and Nikola Jokić.

Sabonis, the versatile center for the Kings, is known for his elite passing, rebounding, and presence in the paint. He faces the tough task of containing Jokić, the two-time MVP for the Nuggets. Jokić has been having another MVP-caliber season, averaging 31.4 points per game while shooting an impressive 51.4% from beyond the arc as a center. He is also averaging 13.2 rebounds and 9.8 assists per game, further showcasing his dominance.

This matchup is key because it will reveal whether Sabonis can slow Jokić down or if it will simply be business as usual for the reigning MVP.

Darren’s Prediction:

While this game will be competitive, I believe Jokić and the Nuggets will come out on top, 115-107.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Brooklyn Nets: An Eastern Conference Clash 

The Cleveland Cavaliers continue to dominate the East, holding the No. 1 spot after nine weeks. Led by Donovan Mitchell’s dynamic scoring and leadership, the Cavs have solidified their position as a powerhouse. Mitchell’s ability to take over games, combined with a defense anchored by Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, gives Cleveland a clear edge in any matchup. Darius Garland’s versatility adds to the team’s offensive balance, while Mobley’s defensive presence further strengthens their overall game.

Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets are in the midst of a season marked by change. Cam Johnson and Ben Simmons provide stability, but the recent trade of Dennis Schröder to the Warriors significantly impacts Brooklyn’s depth. Schröder’s leadership and playmaking were critical in the backcourt, and his absence places extra pressure on Simmons and Johnson to perform, particularly with Cam Thomas sidelined due to injury.

Key Matchup: Cam Johnson vs. Donovan Mitchell

Cam Johnson’s role becomes even more critical in the wake of Schröder’s departure. He will need to find a way to slow down Mitchell, Cleveland’s primary offensive weapon. While Johnson’s scoring will be crucial for Brooklyn, the loss of Schröder’s leadership and offensive facilitation makes this an uphill battle. If Johnson can limit Mitchell’s impact, the Nets might have a chance, but keeping pace with Cleveland’s depth will be difficult.

Darren’s Prediction:

Cleveland’s balanced roster and Mitchell’s offensive firepower will propel the Cavaliers to a dominant victory, 130-100.

Tuesday’s Key Games 

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Milwaukee Bucks: The Last Men Standing 

The Bucks enter this game with high expectations, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Lillard’s scoring and playmaking, combined with Antetokounmpo's dominance, make their offense a major threat. The Bucks not only have veteran leadership and a strong defense but also know what it takes to win, having captured the NBA championship in 2021. With a healthy Khris Middleton and the interior presence of Brook Lopez, this experienced team looks to control the game’s pace and use their depth to secure the NBA Cup.

The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, have exceeded expectations this season. Their youthful roster thrives on speed, fluid ball movement, and creating fast-break opportunities. This championship game will be a major test for Oklahoma City, requiring them to stay energized and execute flawlessly under pressure while matching the Bucks' experience and intensity.

Key Matchup: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Damian Lillard

This clash between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Damian Lillard will be one of the most exciting aspects of the game. Gilgeous-Alexander’s smooth scoring, playmaking and defensive abilities have made him a standout this season, while Lillard’s lethal shooting and clutch performances make him a significant game-changer. Both players can take control and dictate the pace, and this matchup will be key to swinging momentum in this high-stakes championship game.

Darren’s Prediction:

This one is tough to call. Oklahoma City has shown it is a serious contender, but the Bucks’ experience and star power give them the edge. With Lillard and Antetokounmpo dominating on both sides of the court, along with Milwaukee’s depth, it is hard to imagine the Thunder overcoming that kind of firepower. While Oklahoma City will put up a fight, the Bucks should pull out a 114-111 win in what promises to be a hard-fought championship game.

That’s it for this week’s Darren’s Takes! Check back next week for more key matchups, predictions, and insights. Have a great week!

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