As we dive into another thrilling night of NBA action on January 9, 2026, all eyes will be on a trio of marquee matchups that promise to bring fireworks on the court. With intriguing narratives and tight predicted outcomes, these games are set to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

NBA Game Preview

Los Angeles Clippers at Brooklyn Nets

First up, the Los Angeles Clippers travel to Brooklyn to face the Nets in what could be a nail-biting finish. The GameSim predictions give the Nets a slight edge with a 52% win probability, projecting a close 114.5-112.7 victory. But in a matchup this tight, anything can happen.

The Clippers will lean heavily on their dynamic duo of James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. Harden is expected to light up the scoreboard with 28.2 points and dish out 8.3 assists, while Leonard's all-around game should contribute 25.6 points and 7.5 rebounds. Meanwhile, the Nets will counter with Michael Porter Jr., who is projected to score 22.9 points and grab 7.9 rebounds, and Cam Thomas, expected to add 15.1 points. With both teams boasting powerful offenses, this game is not to be missed.

Toronto Raptors at Boston Celtics

In Boston, the Celtics host the Toronto Raptors in a matchup that has the Celtics favored by a significant 8.5 points. Our GameSim model sees Boston prevailing 119.0 to 112.1, with a 59% chance of victory.

Jaylen Brown is the man to watch, predicted to lead the Celtics with 29.9 points and 8.0 rebounds. Derrick White, stepping up as a key playmaker, is expected to chip in with 20.5 points and 5.8 assists. Toronto’s hopes will rest on Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes, with Ingram projected to score 20.8 points and Barnes aiming for a double-double with 16.9 points and 10.7 rebounds. The Raptors will need to bring their A-game to challenge the Celtics on their home turf.

Philadelphia 76ers at Orlando Magic

Finally, the Philadelphia 76ers head to Orlando to face the Magic in a matchup that promises to be fiercely competitive. The GameSim forecast favors the 76ers with a 116.8 to 112.5 win, offering a 55% win probability.

Tyrese Maxey is set to be a standout for Philadelphia, with projections of 22.2 points and 4.0 assists. Joel Embiid, though not in his usual top-scoring form, still promises a strong presence with 18.7 points and 7.2 rebounds. The Magic will look to Paolo Banchero, projected to deliver 21.9 points, and Desmond Bane, who is expected to contribute 20.8 points and 6.2 rebounds. With both teams hungry for a win, this game is set to be a thrilling display of talent and strategy.

For fans and bettors eager to dive deeper into these matchups, detailed projected player stats for all games are available exclusively to our GameSim+ subscribers. To learn more about the benefits of GameSim+ and subscribe, visit here.