Washington Wizards (4-22) vs. Golden State Warriors (12-14)
Wizards vs. Warriors December 22, 2023 – As NBA season heats up, fans and bettors alike are excitedly anticipating Friday’s showdown between the Washington Wizards and Golden State Warriors on ESPN, drawing their interest. With both teams struggling and holding slightly better records respectively, this matchup should provide excitement at Chase Center and offers bettors looking for NBA free picks today an excellent opportunity.
Wizards vs. Warriors December 22, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Friday, December 22, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Chase Center |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Kyle Kuzma SF vs. Stephen Curry PG
Kyle Kuzma has been a bright spot for the struggling Wizards this year. He’s averaging 23.2 points, 6 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game while starting all 26 contests. His versatility at both ends makes him Washington’s most reliable option. However, Kuzma’s efficiency could be better, shooting just 43% from the field. He will need to convert easier looks against Golden State.
Stephen Curry continues to prove he’s one of the NBA’s most lethal scorers. He’s posting 28 points per game on nearly 50/40/90 shooting splits. Curry excels at moving without the ball and can score from anywhere inside the arc or beyond it. His quick trigger and limitless range stress every defense he faces. Curry is the heart of the Warriors offense and the main focus of Washington’s game plan. Slowing him down won’t be easy, but it’s necessary to have a chance at an upset.
This matchup will be decided by which star player can maximize their strengths. If Kuzma is aggressive attacking and facilitates ball movement, Washington’s supporting cast could step up. But if Curry catches fire early, he can single-handedly carry Golden State’s offense while the Wizards scramble to keep up.
Digging Deeper into the Wizards’ Stats
Despite Kuzma’s strong individual play, the Wizards have struggled mightily this season. They rank 26th in both offensive and defensive rating. Washington is scoring just 117 points per game while allowing the sixth-most points in the NBA. Their rebounding and turnover numbers also land in the bottom third league-wide. The Wizards will need major improvements on both ends to compete with playoff-caliber teams like the Warriors. Their poor stats reflect a starting unit still searching for chemistry and consistency.
Analyzing the Warriors’ Statistical Profile
In contrast, Golden State remains formidable despite injuries to key players like Andrew Wiggins. The Warriors rank 13th offensively thanks to Curry and Klay Thompson’s elite shooting. They also allow the ninth-fewest points per game with an improved defensive scheme. Golden State limits opponents to 33% from three while forcing over 15 turnovers a night. If the Warriors shut down driving lanes and contest Washington’s outside shots, they should have the upper hand at home. The stats clearly favor Golden State’s balance and execution on both ends of the court.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this matchup are yet to be determined, but given the trends and team performances, they are likely to favor the Golden State Warriors. Bettors should keep an eye on the Moneyline and Over/Under as they get announced closer to the game day.
Washington Wizards Betting Trends
Washington Wizards are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
The Washington Wizards are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Washington Wizards are 8-5 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Wizards’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 5 of Wizards’ 8 last games at home
Golden State Warriors Betting Trends
Golden State Warriors are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
The Golden State Warriors are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Golden State Warriors are 8-3 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Warriors’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 6 of Warriors’ 11 last games at home
Washington Wizards vs. Golden State Warriors Betting Picks
The upcoming Wizards vs Warriors game presents a classic case of an underdog versus a slightly more favored team. Considering the statistical analysis and betting trends, the Warriors seem to be the safer pick, especially with their strong performance against the spread and Curry’s leadership. However, the Wizards, led by Kuzma, cannot be underestimated, especially with their ability to cover spreads in road games.
In terms of prop bets and over/under, the trend towards high-scoring games for both teams suggests that betting on the OVER might be a wise choice. As for the Moneyline, leaning towards the Warriors seems prudent, but the Wizards’ potential for an upset should not be ignored, especially by those looking for more risky bets on legal betting sites.
Receiving Yards Prop: Warriors 118, Wizards 110.
