Phoenix Suns (20-18) vs. Portland Trail Blazers (10-27)
Phoenix Suns vs. Portland Trail Blazers January 14, 2024 – As the Phoenix Suns and the Portland Trail Blazers gear up for their showdown on Sunday, the stakes are high in this intriguing NBA matchup. The Suns, standing at 20-18, face off against the struggling Trail Blazers, who have a record of 10-27. This game, set to be a captivating clash, will be held at the Moda Center at the Rose Quarter, promising an electric atmosphere. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly searching for a free NBA prediction today, as this game could go either way.
Phoenix Suns vs. Portland Trail Blazers January 14, 2024 Game Info
When: | Sunday, January 14, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET |
Where: | Moda Center at the Rose Quarter |
TV: | ROOT Sports NW |
Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Kevin Durant (PF) vs. Anfernee Simons (SG)
Kevin Durant has been nothing short of outstanding this season as the Phoenix Suns power forward. Over 30 games played, all as a starter, Durant averaged 37 minutes per game while contributing 29.6 points on average while also boasting 6 rebounds per game and 1.1 blocks defensively for his defense team – making him an effective dual threat on both ends of the court. Unfortunately though, his 3.3 turnovers per game could present opportunities for his opponent – the Trail Blazers.
On the Trail Blazers’ side of things, Anfernee Simons has proven himself as an outstanding shooting guard after only 15 games played. Averaging 24.6 points in 33.2 minutes per game and boasting an assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.3, Simons brings dynamic scoring punch. Unfortunately, however, his lower rebound and block numbers may limit his impact defensively.
When these two key players meet on the court, it’s a battle of Durant’s all-around dominance against Simons’ offensive agility. Durant may give his Suns team an edge, while Simons could keep their opponent within striking distance thanks to his sharpshooting and playmaking.
Suns’ Shooting Brilliance
The Suns have been an offensive powerhouse this season, averaging 115.2 points per game with a 48% field goal percentage and making an average of 11.7 three-pointers at 37.2% success rate per game – while their free-throw shooting reliability stands at an 81.9% success rate. Unfortunately, however, their 14 turnovers per game could present additional scoring opportunities to the Trail Blazers.
Trail Blazers’ Balancing Act
The Trail Blazers average 108.3 points per game and possess an effective, balanced offensive approach. Their 43.6% field goal percentage and 35.5% three-point shooting is respectable but not as impressive as that of Phoenix Suns; their strength lies in rebounding on both ends of the court; 12.4 offensive rebounds per game could prove pivotal against Phoenix Suns; however, their slightly higher turnover rate (14.5 per game) and lower free throw percentage (78.9%) could present potential vulnerabilities against them.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this matchup are yet to be determined, but considering the Suns’ superior record and offensive stats, they might be the favorites. The over/under will be a critical factor, especially with both teams showing tendencies to score high.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
Suns are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
Phoenix Suns are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Suns are 8-8 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Suns’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 14 of Suns’ 22 last games at home.
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Trends
Trail Blazers are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
Portland Trail Blazers are 1-4 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Trail Blazers are 10-11 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Trail Blazers’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 7 of Trail Blazers’ 16 last games at home.
Phoenix Suns vs. Portland Trail Blazers Betting Picks
Given the Suns’ stronger overall performance and the Trail Blazers’ recent struggles, the Suns seem to be the safer pick. However, the Trail Blazers’ ability to rebound aggressively and capitalize on turnovers could make them a risky but potentially rewarding underdog choice. For prop bets, considering Durant’s scoring prowess, betting on him to exceed his points per game average might be a wise choice.
For the over/under, given both teams’ recent trends, leaning towards the OVER could be a smart move. The Suns’ efficient offense combined with the Trail Blazers’ ability to keep up the score makes a high-scoring game likely.
In terms of Americas sportsbook online, the Suns might be the more reliable pick, but the Trail Blazers could surprise, especially with their home-court advantage.