After a dominant 10-2 performance on Wednesday, Ethical Sports Takes is back with another round of NBA predictions!
Thursday brings a smaller three-game slate, but there is plenty to look forward to. Cleveland looks to extend its winning streak against Atlanta, two winless teams battle for their first victory, and a pair of undefeated Western Conference teams face off in Portland.
Can EST build on yesterday’s success? Let’s get into tonight’s picks.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Atlanta Hawks
EST Pick: Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers enter Thursday riding a three-game winning streak, while the Atlanta Hawks are heading in the opposite direction with three consecutive losses.
Both teams played Wednesday night. Cleveland defeated Washington 121-111, while Atlanta fell 129-117 to Miami. The Hawks have struggled defensively, particularly against teams that can attack the paint and use their size effectively.
That could be a serious problem against Cleveland. With Donovan Mitchell and James Harden providing offensive firepower and Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen controlling the interior, the Cavaliers have several ways to exploit Atlanta’s defense.
Atlanta certainly has enough offensive talent to make this competitive, especially at home, but Cleveland looks like the more complete team right now.
Prediction: Cleveland Cavaliers win.
2. Sacramento Kings vs. New Orleans Pelicans
EST Pick: New Orleans Pelicans
Somebody has to win!
Both Sacramento and New Orleans enter Thursday with identical 0-4 records, desperately searching for their first victory of the season.
The Kings have struggled on both ends of the floor, and injuries have only made matters worse. Keegan Murray and Maxime Raynaud are among the players unavailable, leaving Sacramento particularly vulnerable defensively.
For New Orleans, Zion Williamson will be the player to watch. He’s scored at least 20 points in three of the Pelicans’ first four games, and Sacramento’s depleted frontcourt could have a difficult time keeping him away from the basket.
The Pelicans aren’t exactly playing inspiring basketball themselves. Their outside shooting has been inconsistent, and they’re coming off Wednesday’s 104-91 defeat against Denver.
However, with home-court advantage and Williamson’s ability to attack Sacramento’s defense, I’m giving New Orleans the edge.
Prediction: New Orleans Pelicans win.
3. Memphis Grizzlies vs. Portland Trail Blazers
EST Pick: Portland Trail Blazers
We’ve saved the best matchup for last!
The Memphis Grizzlies enter Thursday undefeated at 4-0, while the Portland Trail Blazers are also unbeaten at 3-0.
Making this matchup even more interesting is Ja Morant facing his former team for the first time since joining Portland.
The Trail Blazers have been impressive offensively to begin the season, and their backcourt featuring Morant and Damian Lillard gives opposing defenses plenty to worry about. Portland also enters with confidence after defeating the Lakers 136-129 on Tuesday.
Memphis deserves credit for its undefeated start. The Grizzlies have exceeded early expectations, and their strong play means Portland cannot afford to take this matchup lightly.
However, the Trail Blazers have home-court advantage, plenty of offensive weapons, and additional motivation with Morant facing his former team.
This should be the most entertaining game of the night, but I’m sticking with Portland to remain undefeated.
Prediction: Portland Trail Blazers win.
EST NBA Picks — October 29, 2026
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- New Orleans Pelicans
- Portland Trail Blazers
Previous Day’s Record: 10-2
Season Record: 40-26-2
Three games, three selections. Let’s see whether EST can carry Wednesday’s momentum into Thursday night.
No bias, just sports.
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