Miami Heat (19-14) vs. Phoenix Suns (18-15)
Miami Heat vs. Phoenix Suns January 5, 2024 – The upcoming NBA face-off on Friday, features the Miami Heat, holding a solid 19-14 record, against the Phoenix Suns, who are close behind with an 18-15 standing. As basketball fans and bettors alike turn their attention to this matchup, the game promises to be a highlight for those seeking NBA free tips and picks. Scheduled for 9:00 PM ET at the Footprint Center and broadcast on AZFamily, this contest is poised to be a compelling demonstration of tactical basketball.
Miami Heat vs. Phoenix Suns January 5, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Friday, January 5, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | AZFamily |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Tyler Herro (PG) vs. Devin Booker (SG)
Tyler Herro has taken on an increased role for the Heat this season, starting in all 15 games he’s played while averaging 23.4 points and 5.5 rebounds per contest. The young guard is lethal from downtown, shooting 38.8% from three this year. However, he has struggled with turnovers at times. Herro’s usage rate has skyrocketed to nearly 30% as he guides Miami’s offense. Though undersized, he uses craftiness and a quick first step to create space. His scoring prowess forces defenders to play him tight on the perimeter, opening driving lanes to the basket.
Devin Booker has picked up right where he left off last season during the Suns’ NBA Finals run, averaging 26.4 points and 7.9 assists through 24 starts. His versatile scoring ability and playmaking for others makes him a difficult cover. Booker employs a balanced offensive arsenal, capable of pulling up from midrange, attacking the basket or shooting the long ball. While prone to defensive lapses, this guard utilizes his length well on that end, coming away with a steal per game. Booker will look to efficiently distribute and put pressure on Miami’s defense all night with his patient pick-and-roll play and off-ball movement.
The matchup between Herro and Booker will be a fascinating aspect of this game. Herro’s playmaking and scoring abilities against Booker’s scoring prowess and assisting skills could be pivotal in shaping the game’s outcome.
Analyzing the Heat’s Strengths and Weaknesses
The Miami Heat have been consistent scorers, averaging an impressive 113 points per game with a 47% field goal percentage and 38.8% three-point shooting success rate. Free throw shooting of 82.4% stands out. Unfortunately for them though, their high turnover and foul rate could present obstacles against Phoenix Suns.
Evaluating the Suns’ Tactical Approach
The Phoenix Suns edge ahead in scoring, averaging 115.2 points per game on average. Their shooting accuracy slightly outshines that of Miami with 47.8% field goal percentage and 37.3% rate from beyond three-point line. Their rebounding average is 43.8 per game while their lower turnover rate of 14.2 suggests they play with greater control and could prove an asset over time.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
Betting odds have not yet been finalized for this game; however, given both teams’ performances so far, it could be a close contest. Bettors should keep both teams’ overall efficiency in mind when placing bets; additionally consider three-point shooting prowess for optimal outcomes when making betting decisions.
Miami Heat Betting Trends
Heat are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Miami Heat are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Heat are 10-7 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Heat’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 9 of Heat’ 15 last games at home.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
Suns are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Phoenix Suns are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Suns are 7-7 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Suns’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 12 of Suns’ 19 last games at home.
Miami Heat vs. Phoenix Suns Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this game appears to be a closely contested matchup. The Heat’s strong three-point shooting could be key, but the Suns’ overall scoring efficiency and better ball control might give them an edge.
In terms of betting picks, the Suns, with their balanced approach and home-court advantage, could be the safer bet. However, the Heat’s recent form against the spread makes them a competitive choice. For prop bets, focusing on individual performances, especially of Herro and Booker, could be intriguing. Keep an eye on Americas Legal Betting Sites for the latest odds and insights.
Receiving Yards Prop: Suns 112, Heat 109.
