Darren's Takes, NBA Games 12/31 and 1/1

Published: Tuesday, December 31, 2024

by Darren Worrell

Welcome back to Darren’s Takes, your weekly breakdown of key NBA games and player matchups. Week 10 was highlighted by the NBA’s Christmas Day games, and all of them were entertaining, especially the Knicks vs. Spurs; Victor Wembanyama dropped 42 and Mikal Bridges added 41 in a nail-biting victory for the Knicks. The league did an excellent job of creating these matchups, and I would say they were even more exciting than the NFL games. Now, as we head into Week 11, it is time for fresh takes and new insights. Let us dive into this week’s Darren’s Takes!

Tuesday’s Key Games (New Year’s Eve)

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Los Angeles Lakers (The Battle of the Top Frontcourts)

Cleveland has been on fire this season, coming into this game on a six-game winning streak, most recently defeating the Denver Nuggets 149-135. The Cavaliers have been playing an up-tempo style, ranking second in the league in points per game (122.7). Their offense is led by Donovan Mitchell, who is averaging 27.4 points per game, and Darius Garland, who has been excellent as a playmaker.

The Cavaliers’ offensive depth, combined with emerging superstar Evan Mobley, has made them tough to beat. Mobley is a force on both ends, contributing 8.9 rebounds per game and providing a strong presence in the paint. Cleveland’s defense has also been a big part of their success, allowing just 111 points per game and excelling at limiting fast breaks and three-point shooting. They will need their defense to step up against a high-powered team like the Lakers. 

The Lakers come into this game following a 132-122 win over Sacramento, led by LeBron James, who is still playing at a high level at 40 years old (happy belated birthday to the greatest of all time). James is averaging 23.5 points, 9.0 assists, and 7.9 rebounds per game. Anthony Davis, with his 2.3 blocks per game, has been the defensive anchor for Los Angeles.

However, the Lakers have been inconsistent this season, ranking just 17th in points per game (112) and 18th in points allowed (114.1). Injuries have been another setback, with key players like Christian Wood and Jarred Vanderbilt out. Despite these challenges, the Lakers will look to LeBron and Davis to carry them against Cleveland's tough frontcourt, which features Mobley and Jarrett Allen. 

Key Matchup: Anthony Davis vs. Jarrett Allen 

This matchup is a clash between two of the NBA’s most dominant big men. Davis, known for his shot-blocking and rim protection, will have his hands full with Allen, who has been a key force for Cleveland on defense and the boards. Both players will be crucial in controlling the paint and preventing easy baskets inside, making this battle pivotal for the outcome of the game. 

Darren’s Prediction: While LeBron is my favorite player, even with him and Anthony Davis on the floor, it will not be enough to overcome the top-seeded Cavaliers. The Lakers lost to Cleveland by 24 points the last time they met, and I expect a similar result here. It will not be a blowout, but I see Cleveland coming out on top: Cavs 132, Lakers 125.

Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (The Battle of Rising Stars) 
The Timberwolves come into this game with a 17-14 record and a three-game winning streak. After a slow start to the season, they have found their rhythm, with Anthony Edwards leading the way. Edwards has been dominant, averaging 24.9 points per game, and he will need help from his teammates, including Julius Randle, who has also provided scoring and rebounding.

While Minnesota has been solid defensively, ranking fourth in points allowed per game, their offense still struggles with shooting efficiency, ranking near the bottom in field goal percentage. However, they will need to be at their best to take on a high-flying Oklahoma City team. 

At 26-5, the Thunder are leading the Western Conference and have been one of the most balanced teams in the league. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been fantastic, leading the way with scoring, playmaking, and defense. The Thunder’s suffocating defense is their biggest strength, allowing the fewest points per game in the league. Jalen Williams has also emerged as a key contributor. With their overall depth and solid defense, Oklahoma City is a tough matchup for anyone.

Key Matchup: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Anthony Edwards

This matchup features two of the NBA’s brightest young stars. Edwards has been spectacular for the Timberwolves, and he will need to be at his best to outduel Gilgeous-Alexander, who’s been playing at an elite level for Oklahoma City. Both players can take over games with their scoring and athleticism, so this will be one to watch.

Darren’s Prediction: The Timberwolves are a good team, but Oklahoma City is the best in the West for a reason. The Thunder will win this game in a tightly contested battle: Thunder 120, Timberwolves 114. 
Wednesday’s Key Games (New Year’s Day) 

Atlanta Hawks vs. Denver Nuggets (The A-Town vs. The Mile-High City)

The Denver Nuggets, led by reigning MVP Nikola Jokic, have been playing at a prominent level. Jokic’s playmaking and scoring are central to Denver’s offense, with Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon always contributing. Their overall depth, including young talents like Christian Braun and Julian Strawther, has made them one of the toughest teams in the league.

At 18-15, the Atlanta Hawks are coming off a dominant win over the Toronto Raptors, and are on a four-game winning streak. Trae Young has been leading the way, carrying a heavier load since Dejounte Murray’s departure. The Hawks’ depth, including the emergence of Zaccharie Risacher and contributions from De’Andre Hunter and Onyeka Okongwu, has been key to their success.

Key Matchup: Trae Young vs. Jamal Murray

This is a battle between two key players who run their respective teams’ offenses. Young is the focal point of the Hawks’ attack, while Murray plays a vital role for Denver alongside Jokic. Both players can score and create for their teammates, and this matchup will play a key role in determining the game's outcome.

Darren’s Prediction: The Nuggets are a more complete team than the Hawks, and their experience will be the difference. After a blowout win last time, I expect the Nuggets to repeat the performance: Nuggets 133, Hawks 113. 

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Sacramento Kings (The City of Brotherly Love vs. The City of Trees)

The 76ers, led by Joel Embiid, have had an up-and-down season but are slowly finding their rhythm. Embiid’s dominant play inside, along with Tyrese Maxey’s scoring, gives Philly a strong duo. Maxey has emerged as one of the most dynamic young players in the league, and his growth as a playmaker has made him even more dangerous.

The Sacramento Kings have had an inconsistent season but have flashes of brilliance, especially with De’Aaron Fox leading the offense. Sabonis has been solid as both a rebounder and playmaker, but the Kings have struggled defensively, ranking near the bottom of the league in points allowed.

Key Matchup: Tyrese Maxey vs. De’Aaron Fox

This matchup is between two of the NBA’s fastest guards. Maxey’s explosive speed and scoring ability will go up against Fox’s transition game and clutch playmaking. Both players will be crucial for their team’s success, and their ability to push the tempo will make for an exciting game. 

Darren’s Prediction: This is a tough one, but with the 2023 MVP Joel Embiid, the 76ers have the edge. I expect Philadelphia to pull this one out: 76ers 113, Kings 110. 

That’s it for this week’s Darren’s Takes! Be sure to check back next week for more key matchups, predictions, and insights. Have a wonderful week, and Happy New Year! 

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

 

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