Trail Blazers (8-22) vs. Suns (15-15)
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Phoenix Suns January 1, 2024 – As NBA season winds down, one of the most anticipated matchups of 2024 will take place between Portland Trail Blazers, who have experienced struggles this season, and Phoenix Suns who strive for consistency with differing records – a game sure to pique fans and bettors alike – especially on platforms renowned for being among the best online sportsbook platforms.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Phoenix Suns January 1, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 1, at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | TBD |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Jerami Grant SF vs. Kevin Durant PF
Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers stands out as an indispensable Small Forward player this season, averaging 22.2 points and 3.9 rebounds per game in 26 games played so far. However, his turnover rate and fouls per game may impede Portland’s offensive flow and disrupt his success as an offensive presence.
Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns has been nothing short of spectacular in his role as Power Forward. Averaging 30.2 points and 6.4 rebounds across 26 games, Durant’s experience and scoring ability have proven pivotal for their Suns victory. Although he does commit more turnovers than usual, his assist-to-turnover ratio and defensive contributions stand out significantly.
Grant and Durant face off on the court as offensive masterminds, with Grant using her agility and scoring prowess to test Durant while Durant might use his all-around play and experience to his advantage. Their meeting could have a decisive effect on game results with each possessing the capacity to sway momentum in either direction.
Trail Blazers’ Struggle for Consistency: A Statistical Insight
Portland Trail Blazers’ season has been marked by inconsistency, with statistical shortcomings and signs of potential emerging over the course of each game. While their average of 108.6 points per game may seem respectable, this does not quite convey their story. An analysis reveals a 43.7% field goal efficiency rate, indicative of challenges converting plays to points, an essential aspect in tight games. At 35.2% for three-point shooting, they offer some hope but this is overshadowed by their turnover rate of 14.2 per game, which frequently impedes offensive efforts.
Defensewise, they average an impressive 41.7 rebounds and 8.6 steals per game – which shows some competence – however their tendency to commit 20.6 fouls per game often negates this success, leading opponents to score easily off their fouls. The team’s inconsistent performance is further highlighted on the road where they boast a better record against the spread. Their inconsistency, with flashes of brilliance and frustrating slip-ups alike, presents bettors with an immense challenge when trying to assess their performance.
Suns’ Balanced Attack: Key to Success
Phoenix Suns demonstrate a more cohesive and effective gameplay, evidenced by their balanced offensive and defensive statistics. Their impressive average points per game of 115 is supported by an excellent 47.3% field goal percentage that shows efficient shot selection and execution. These offensive abilities are further demonstrated by their 36.8% 3-point shooting rate and an 82.5% free-throw percentage; both figures attesting to their team’s prowess in scoring from various distances.
The Suns excel not only in scoring but also playmaking as evidenced by their average of 26.1 assists per game – an indicator of their team-oriented approach to basketball. On defense, they maintain an impressive presence with 44.2 rebounds and 6.5 blocks per game – providing an ideal balance between their high-scoring offense and stout defense. At home, their performance stands out, often exceeding the total points line and demonstrating an ability to quicken the game’s pace and score more easily than expected. Their well-rounded team dynamics make the Suns formidable opponents who bettors often favor because of their consistency and overall game strength.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
Current betting odds favor the Phoenix Suns, and understandably so given their balanced team performance and superior record. While an over/under has yet to be set, bettors should keep in mind both teams’ offensive efficiency and defensive struggles while making their betting decision.
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Trends
The Trail Blazers have gone 3-3 over their last five games and share an identical record against the spread. Their road record against the spread, though, stands out at 9-6; yet with such unpredictable performances making betting on them risky proposition.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
The Suns have posted three wins out of their last five outings but only managed a 1-4 record against the spread. Their home performance, however, has been stronger; 11-5 for overs in 16 games suggests an intriguing trend which may shape betting strategies around their scoring capabilities.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Phoenix Suns Betting Picks
Based on data and trends, the Phoenix Suns appear to be the safer bet. Their offensive depth and better overall record make them a favorite; prop bets could include Durant’s scoring/assist numbers given his current form; while their high-scoring nature may result in an over/under bet veering towards over.
As for NBA picks and predictions, this match appears to favor the Suns with home court advantage and more consistent records; however, due to Grant’s potential for big moments on either team, an element of uncertainty exists which cannot be discounted out.
Receiving Yards Prop: Phoenix Suns 112, Portland Trail Blazers 105.
