Now that the weekend is here, it’s time to simplify the grind. Instead of splitting sides/totals and player props into separate pieces, my weekend columns will bring everything under one roof — a streamlined look at my favorite bets for the day’s slate. Fewer words, hopefully the same results. Keep reading for my NBA picks and predictions for Saturday, December 27.
RELATED: Check out the Pro Picks page for more selections from our talented VSiN hosts and analysts!
NBA Best Bets Today (Sides/Totals)
PARLAY: Knicks ML vs. Hawks & Timberwolves ML vs. Nets (-119)
Knicks at Hawks – 8:00 pm ET
Nets at Timberwolves – 8:00 pm ET
The Hawks are coming off a loss to the Heat last night, marking the team’s fifth consecutive defeat. Over the last 10 games, Atlanta has been one of the worst teams in the league defensively, making this a game New York should win. The Knicks are one of the best offensive teams in the league, so they should be able to carve this Hawks defense up. New York is also coming off a day of rest — and the team’s game on Thursday was very early — while Atlanta is playing the second leg of a back-to-back. So, the Knicks are probably the best moneyline parlay anchor on the card this evening.
To get New York down to a better number, I’m pairing Jalen Brunson’s squad with Minnesota to beat Brooklyn. The Nets have been a feisty team this season, and the Timberwolves can play with their food a little. With that in mind, this isn’t a sure thing. However, Minnesota is hosting one of the worst teams in basketball, and the Wolves are doing so after a loss. They really should be able to lock in and get back in the win column. There’s nothing Brooklyn does at a higher level than Minnesota.
NBA Player Props Today
Cooper Flagg Over 23.5 Points (+100) vs. Kings
Mavericks at Kings – 5:00 pm ET
The Mavericks will be without Anthony Davis for a little, as he is dealing with more groin issues. That’ll make it harder on Dallas to win games, but it could mean big things for Flagg’s point totals. The rookie averaged 38.5 points per game in the last two games he played without Davis, scoring 35 against the Clippers and then 42 against the Jazz. He’s the unquestioned No. 1 option when Davis is off the floor, and that should mean a decent performance against this Kings team. Sacramento is the worst team in the NBA defending inside 10 feet, where Flagg scores 63% of his points.
Wendell Carter Jr. Over 11.5 Points (-130) vs. Nuggets
Nuggets at Magic – 7:00 pm ET
When these teams met on December 18, Carter really enjoyed the matchup. While the Nuggets won that game, Carter had 26 points in 29 minutes. He finished that game 11 for 15 from the floor and 4 for 7 from 3. Well, Carter could be in for another solid performance here. His spot-up opportunities will be there, and he has been knocking them down this season. He should also do a little bit of work at the basket — either as a play-finisher or put-back threat.
2025-26 NBA Record: 214-192 (+19.45 units)
