Dallas Mavericks vs Portland Trail Blazers Prediction & Picks - NBA

Prediction published on 12/29/25, 7:03 PM  by Erik Gibbs in NBA Picks

The Portland Trail Blazers enter this matchup against the Dallas Mavericks coming off a stretch that reflects a developing but still inconsistent team. Recent results have shown flashes of competitiveness, particularly at home, where Portland has played with higher energy and better tempo. Over their last several games, the Trail Blazers have managed to stay close against stronger opponents, even when losses occurred.

Defensive discipline remains an issue, especially in transition and interior coverage, but there have been signs of improvement in ball movement and rebounding. Portland has also shown a greater willingness to push pace, which has helped generate scoring opportunities early in games.

Dallas arrives with less momentum. The Mavericks have struggled to establish rhythm, particularly on the road, where recent losses have followed a similar pattern. Slow starts have been a recurring problem, often forcing Dallas to chase games from the second quarter onward.

While offensive stretches have been productive at times, defensive lapses and turnovers have undermined those efforts. Dallas has also had difficulty closing games, allowing opponents to regain control during critical late-game stretches. Overall, recent form suggests a team still searching for consistency and identity.