Credit: Deadspin
Darren's Takes, NBA Week 11/25
Published: Monday, November 25, 2024
by Darren Worrell
Welcome back to Darren’s Takes! The weekly column where I break down a couple of key NBA games that will be taking place on Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as highlight crucial player matchups and share my predictions. Week five of the NBA displayed a lot of surprising upsets, but we are now in week six, and this week’s new games and new challenges are in store. Without further ado, let’s get into these takes.
Monday’s Key Games
Orlando Magic Vs Charlotte Hornets “The Battle of the Young Teams”
The Orlando Magic is on the road, heading into Charlotte for a matchup against the Hornets. Orlando has been steadily building momentum, currently third in the Eastern Conference, driven by the growth of their young players. In last week’s edition, I mentioned Franz Wagner, who through 18 games has been nothing short of amazing. He is currently averaging 23.6 PPG, 5.8 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and shooting a staggering 47.4 percent.
With these ridiculous stat lines he puts up every time he steps on the floor, he is on track to win Most Improved Player. The Magic’s blend of youth and defense has given them solid performances so far, making them the favorites in this contest. Anthony Black and Jalen Suggs are also showing promise, bringing added depth to the Magic's rotation.
Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets are led by their star, LaMelo Ball, who has been playing at a high level. Ball is a dynamic playmaker and his vision on the court creates plenty of opportunities for his teammates. Charlotte’s offense tends to flow through him, and his ability to score or distribute makes him a constant threat. The Hornets also have other talented offensive pieces like Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges, but their defense has often been a weak point, especially against teams with versatile scorers.
Key Matchup: Franz Wagner Vs Lamelo Ball- Wagner has been a consistent scorer for the Magic, averaging 23.6 points and 5.6 rebounds per game this season. His versatility allows him to contribute effectively on both ends of the floor, making him a pivotal player in Orlando's lineup. Ball recently achieved a career milestone by scoring 50 points in a game, becoming the third-youngest player in NBA history to do so. He is averaging 30.2 points per game this season, displaying his offensive prowess and playmaking abilities.
Darren’s Prediction: This will no doubt be a tough battle between these two tough and extremely talented teams. However, the Magic will get it done winning 112-106.
L.A. Clippers Vs Boston Celtics “The Battle of the Stars”
For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum has been performing at an MVP-caliber level this season, averaging 28.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. His versatility and ability to score in isolation or within the Celtics’ system make him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses. Jaylen Brown, last year’s finals MVP, compliments Tatum with his aggressive scoring, sharp shooting, and defensive prowess, contributing 25.6 points per game. Together, they form one of the league's most formidable offensive teams.
The Clippers are excelling under the leadership of James Harden, currently sitting fifth in the Western Conference with an 11-7 record. Harden's ability to orchestrate the offense and his knack for clutch plays have fueled the Clippers' success, even with Kawhi Leonard sidelined due to injury. Without Leonard and former player Paul George, now on the 76ers, Harden has stepped up as the offensive leader, supported by a solid supporting cast doing their part for the team which is great.
Key Matchup: Jayson Tatum Vs James Harden- Tatum, known for his scoring versatility and defensive prowess, will go head-to-head with Harden, a master at controlling the tempo and finding scoring opportunities. Both players are pivotal to their teams' success, and their performances could determine the game's outcome. This is the key matchup for fans to keep their eyes on
Darren’s Prediction: The Boston Celtics, with their strong form and balanced roster, are likely to have the upper hand against the LA Clippers. Playing at home in TD Garden gives Boston an added boost, and the duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown is expected to lead the charge with their dynamic scoring and defensive intensity. The Clippers have been performing well under James Harden's leadership, but the reliance on Harden as the primary playmaker might limit their offensive diversity against Boston's top-tier defense.
The Celtics' depth, including key contributions from Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, and the surprise this season Payton Pritchard should be enough to neutralize the Clippers' supporting cast. The final score will be 125-110 in favor of the Celtics.
Tuesday’s Key Games
L.A. Lakers Vs Phoenix Suns “The Battle of Experience”
The Lakers, led by the legendary LeBron James, come into this game as one of the stronger teams in the West and in this Emirates Cup. They are currently 2-0 in their division and 4-0 in the Western Conference, bolstered by a solid supporting cast of Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, and plenty more. Their depth and versatility make them a tough opponent, with multiple scoring threats and strong defensive options, especially with Davis in the paint. James continues to be a dominant force, capable of taking over games in any aspect, from scoring to facilitating for teammates.
On the other hand, the Phoenix Suns, with star power like Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal, though Beal's and Durant’s status for this game may be uncertain due to injury, are a formidable offensive team. Booker and Durant have proven they can carry the Suns, with both players able to score efficiently and create plays under pressure.
However, the Suns have struggled with consistency and depth, as their bench is thinner compared to the Lakers’ more balanced roster. Phoenix will rely heavily on their superstars to keep the game close, but their lack of a deep bench could hurt them in the later stages.
Key Matchup: Lebron James Vs Devin Booker- This matchup is one of those matchups that you just have to get excited about. LeBron’s physicality and basketball IQ allow him to exploit mismatches, whether driving to the rim, setting up teammates, or pulling up for a mid-range jumper. Against the Suns, LeBron’s leadership, and ability to dictate pace will be crucial, especially in transition.
Booker, one of the most skilled scorers in the league, will look to outshine LeBron with his elite shot creation and sharpshooting. Booker’s quick release, ability to navigate through screens, and range make him a constant scoring threat. He has also developed as a playmaker, capable of running the Suns’ offense effectively when needed.
Darren’s Prediction: The Lakers will win this game and move to 3-0 in this Emirates Cup group stage. While the Suns will put up a strong fight, especially with Booker and hopefully Durant scoring efficiently, the Lakers’ depth and defense, especially with Davis patrolling the paint, will be the deciding factor. James’s leadership and the Lakers experience in tight games should give them the edge in this West Group B clash. The final score will be close 118-114.
Milwaukee Bucks Vs Miami Heat “The Battle of the East”
The Bucks have had an inconsistent start to the season, leaving them still searching for their rhythm. While their defense has been a work in progress, Milwaukee remains a team with one of the league’s most potent offenses, thanks to the presence of Giannis Antetokounmpo. Widely regarded as one of the NBA's best players, Giannis's ability to dominate in the paint, create for his teammates, and control the boards is unparalleled.
Although their early struggles may have stemmed from integrating Damian Lillard into the system, Milwaukee’s ceiling remains sky-high. Lillard’s scoring ability and clutch performances are critical additions to the Bucks’ roster, Role players like Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis contribute defensively and, on the perimeter, add depth to their lineup. Despite the slower start, Milwaukee’s talent and potential make them dangerous in any matchup.
The Heat, under the leadership of Jimmy Butler, have also faced early challenges this season but continue to rely on their signature resilience and disciplined play. Miami thrives on its ability to stay competitive, thanks to a mix of star power and contributions from role players like Tyler Herro, and Bam Adebayo.
Butler remains the engine for the Heat, with his two-way play and knack for delivering in big moments. Adebayo’s defensive versatility and ability to score in the paint also make him a critical piece for Miami’s success. The Heat’s outside shooting from Duncan Robinson and the steady development of younger contributors keep them competitive, especially at home.
Key Matchup: Giannis Antetokounmpo Vs Jimmy Butler- Giannis, with his unmatched blend of size and athleticism, will look to dominate the paint, forcing the Heat to commit multiple defenders to slow him down. Butler, known for his relentless energy and defensive prowess, will be tasked with keeping the Heat afloat on both ends of the floor. Their battle will not only dictate the tone of the game but could also decide which team gets crucial momentum heading into the final stretch.
Darren’s Prediction: While both teams are still finding their footing, the Bucks’ star power and offensive weapons give them the edge. Giannis’s dominance, combined with Lillard’s ability to step up in critical moments, should carry Milwaukee past Miami, even if the Heat’s home-court advantage keeps it competitive. The final score will be 120-118, Bucks in a nailbiter.
That is all 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!
Darren Worrell can be reached at darren.worrell@student.shu.edu.Posted in: sports,