NBA Week 13 Preview and Free Picks

A new week in the NBA starts with a classic matchup: Warriors vs. Celtics. These two teams faced off in the 2022 Finals and consistently delivered tight, intense battles.

Another highlight is the clash between two young franchises, the Rockets and Pistons, showcasing emerging talent. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies will face the Timberwolves, who are desperate for a win to stay competitive.

Lastly, watch the Cavaliers hosting the Suns in a pivotal game. Phoenix needs a victory to hold onto their Play-In spot and maintain momentum in a challenging season.

NBA Week 13: Houston Rockets vs. Detroit Pistons

The Houston Rockets have taken a significant step forward this season and are the most formidable teams in the highly competitive Western Conference. Despite lacking a dominant superstar like some of their rivals, they boast a strong defensive structure fueled by youthful energy. Jalen Green leads the team in scoring with 21.5 points per game, while Alperen Şengün has emerged as their best all-around player, averaging 19.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists.

Similarly, the Detroit Pistons are a young team on the rise, aiming to return to the Playoffs. Unlike Houston, however, they feature a standout player who could become one of the NBA’s next big stars: Cade Cunningham. The dynamic guard is averaging 24.4 points, 9.4 assists, and 6.5 rebounds per game. Jaden Ivey will be unavailable for this matchup.

Rockets vs. Pistons Betting Pick: Rockets

NBA Week 13: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

Despite having several injuries, the Memphis Grizzlies are showcasing their impressive quality this season under the leadership of Ja Morant, one of the league’s top point guards. Morant has an average of 21.4 points and 7.5 assists per game, although he’s been dealing with some physical discomfort. Other standout players include Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Santi Aldama, who are making significant contributions to the team’s success.

After a terrible start to the season, the Minnesota Timberwolves have turned things around and are now at least in the Play-In picture. However, Anthony Edwards needs more support if the team hopes to make a deep Playoff run. Edwards has an average of 26.1 points per game, followed by Julius Randle with 19.2. Additionally, the defensive presence of center Rudy Gobert remains a key factor for Minnesota.

Grizzlies vs. Timberwolves Betting Pick: Grizzlies

NBA Week 13: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Phoenix Suns

The Cleveland Cavaliers are the best team in the league, thanks to their pieces that have come together seamlessly. Donovan Mitchell has stepped up as a true leader, while Evan Mobley has emerged as a star, averaging 18.6 points and 8.8 rebounds per game, although he’s currently dealing with physical issues. Darius Garland contributes significantly with his 21.0 points per game, and Jarrett Allen is the perfect complement, pulling down 10.1 rebounds per game.

The Phoenix Suns, on the other hand, have been a disappointment due to an unbalanced roster and injuries to key players. Nearly all the pressure has fallen on veteran Kevin Durant, who has an average of 27.1 points and 6.4 rebounds. The Suns recently acquired Nick Richards to provide the paint presence that Jusuf Nurkic has struggled to deliver.

Cavaliers vs. Suns Betting Pick: Cavaliers

NBA Week 13: Golden State Warriors vs. Boston Celtics

The Golden State Warriors had a promising start to the season, but reality has hit hard, and they now face the possibility of missing out on a Play-In spot. Stephen Curry (22.9 points) has struggled to carry the team on his own, even with Andrew Wiggins and Jonathan Kuminga both averaging over 16 points per game. The addition of Dennis Schröder has not had the desired impact. Notably, Curry has scored over 30 points against this opponent in five of their last seven matchups.

The Boston Celtics, being the reigning NBA champions, have not displayed the dominance expected of them. However, they still hold one of the best records in the league. The team’s lack of intensity has been noticeable, but they boast an MVP candidate in Jayson Tatum, who has an average of 27.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game.

Warriors vs. Celtics Betting Pick: Warriors