NBA Wednesday picks - November 27

For NBA Wednesday, we’re focusing on matchups that expose two struggling teams – the Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz – both are playing on the second night of a back-to-back. Additionally, we’re backing the Oklahoma City Thunder in a revenge spot against the Golden State Warriors, buoyed by Isiah Hartenstein’s impact in the frontcourt.

NBA Wednesday Predictions

Los Angeles Clippers -7.5 (-110) vs. Washington Wizards 

Denver Nuggets -7.5 (-110) vs. Utah Jazz

Oklahoma City Thunder -1.5 (-110) vs. Golden State Warriors

PICK #1: Los Angeles Clippers -7.5 (-110) vs. Washington Wizards

The Clippers head to Washington to face a Wizards team that ranks among the league's worst on both ends of the court. Washington is 29th in offensive rating and dead last (30th) in defensive rating. Playing on the second leg of a back-to-back makes their uphill battle even steeper.

The Clippers' 5th-ranked defense should smother a Wizards offense that struggles to find consistency, ranking 26th in true shooting percentage. Additionally, the Clippers are the league's best defensive rebounding team, which will limit second-chance opportunities for the Wizards, who rank 24th in offensive rebounding.

The Clippers excel at crashing the offensive glass, ranking 12th in offensive rebounding. They’ll take advantage of a Wizards squad that sits 25th in defensive rebounding, further exposing Washington's fatigued legs. Ivica Zubac has been dominant for the Clippers this season, averaging 15.6 points and 12.4 rebounds per game while shooting 60% from the field. He’ll have a favorable matchup against rookie Alexander Sarr, who lacks the physicality to handle Zubac in the paint.

LA's offensive discipline is another factor to watch – they don’t settle for poor shots and will capitalize on easy looks inside. Expect them to dominate the paint and pull away from the Wizards in this one.

PICK #2: Denver Nuggets -7.5 (-110) vs. Utah Jazz

The Jazz are the second team on this slate playing a back-to-back, and their situation is arguably even worse. Coming off a road game, they now have to deal with the Denver Nuggets, who are looking to rebound after an embarrassing 145-118 home loss to the Knicks on Monday night.

While the Nuggets are missing Aaron Gordon, this is still a potent offensive team led by Nikola Jokic, who rarely loses games like this. The Jazz rank 26th in offensive and defensive rating, making them a prime target for a bounce-back game.

Denver's offense remains elite, and their strong offensive rebounding will put further pressure on a Jazz team struggling on the defensive boards. In their last meeting, Denver blew out Utah 129-103, with Jokic posting a near-triple-double of 27 points, 16 rebounds and 9 assists. Michael Porter Jr. and Christian Braun also delivered standout performances in that game.

Utah's perimeter defense leaves much to be desired, and Jokic’s ability to play inside-out will open up clean looks for Denver's shooters. With the Nuggets looking to make a statement after Monday’s blowout loss, expect them to take care of business and cover the spread.

PICK #3: Oklahoma City Thunder -1.5 (-110) vs. Golden State Warriors

This matchup pits two of the top teams in the West against each other, with the Thunder looking to avenge their 127-116 loss to the Warriors earlier this season. In that game, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander struggled, shooting just 6-for-17, and the Thunder were missing both Chet Holmgren and Isiah Hartenstein in the frontcourt. The Warriors took full advantage, dominating the glass and wearing down OKC.

The Thunder now have Hartenstein back in the lineup, and his presence has been game-changing. Since his team debut, OKC is 2-0, and his interior defense, rim protection and rebounding have stabilized the team’s frontcourt. His ability to control the paint will help neutralize the Warriors' rebounding advantage, allowing the Thunder to play more balanced on both ends.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should also bounce back with a much better performance this time. The Thunder’s depth and Hartenstein’s contributions will give them the edge in this revenge game. As slight favorites, we like OKC to prove they own the top of the Western Conference standings with a statement win over Golden State.