Phoenix Suns vs. Portland Trail Blazers 12/19/23 – As the NBA season progresses, the upcoming clash between the Phoenix Suns and the Portland Trail Blazers is grabbing attention among fans and those interested in basketball betting picks. Set to take place on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, this game pits the moderately successful Suns against the struggling Trail Blazers. With contrasting records and performances, this matchup at the Moda Center at the Rose Quarter offers intriguing elements for NBA enthusiasts and bettors alike.
| When: | Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Moda Center at the Rose Quarter |
| TV: | ROOT Sports NW |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) December 19, 2023
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suns | -6.5 -108 | o232.5 -110 | -333 |  |
| Blazers | +6.5 -112 | u232.5 -110 | +275 | |
| ||||
Kevin Durant (PF) vs. Anfernee Simons (SG)
Kevin Durant has been putting up MVP-caliber numbers in his first season with the Suns, averaging 30.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game while shooting 55% from the field. However, the Suns have struggled to build chemistry and are currently under .500. Durant will look to exploit his matchup against the smaller Anfernee Simons, though he has also been turnover-prone this season.
Anfernee Simons has taken over the reins as Portland’s primary scorer in just his fifth NBA season, averaging 24.6 points per game. Though undersized, Simons is crafty off the dribble and capable of getting hot from three. He will have his work cut out against Durant’s length and defensive ability. This matchup could determine which team’s offense prevails.
With both teams struggling to find defensive consistency, this matchup between All-Star scorers could turn into a shootout. Durant and Simons both have the ability to erupt offensively. Whichever player is able to dominate this head-to-head battle could carry their team to victory.
Suns’ Statistical Strides: A Closer Look
The Suns have demonstrated commendable team performance metrics this season. Averaging 115.4 points per game while posting an impressive 47.4% field goal percentage and 38.2% 3-point shooting are hallmarks of their effectiveness, but their 14.1 turnovers per game is cause for concern; their impressive defensive rebounding strength of an average 32.9 per game gives them ample second-chance opportunities in playback situations.
Trail Blazers’ Tactical Tendencies: Analyzing the Numbers
Portland’s statistics paint a picture of a team with potential but difficulty finding consistency. Averaging just 106.8 points per game, their offense is less potent than that of Phoenix (43.2% field goal percentage and 34.6% 3-point shooting percentage), yet 8.8 steals per game suggest strong defensive effort that could disrupt Suns offensive flow; additionally their higher turnover rate (14.9) requires further attention.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game have yet to be determined, but considering the Suns’ better record and the Trail Blazers’ struggles, the odds might favor Phoenix. However, bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they become available.
Trends
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
Suns are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
Phoenix Suns are 0-5 in their last 5 games against the spread
Suns are 6-5 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 9 of Suns’ 11 last games at home
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Trends
Trail Blazers are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
Portland Trail Blazers are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Trail Blazers are 8-5 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 3 of Trail Blazers’ 8 last games at home
Injuries
Phoenix Suns
Bradley Beal SG Is out indefinitely, Ankle
Damion Lee SG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Grayson Allen SG Is probable Tuesday vs Portland, Hamstring
Josh Okogie SG Is downgraded to OUT Tuesday vs Portland, Hip
Portland Trail Blazers
Robert Williams PF Is out for season, Knee
Shaedon Sharpe PF Is “?” Tuesday vs Phoenix, Groin
Phoenix Suns vs. Portland Trail Blazers Betting Picks
Given the Suns’ overall better performance and Portland’s struggles, Phoenix seems like the safer bet. However, the Trail Blazers have shown resilience against the spread, especially in road games, which could make them a tempting underdog pick. The key matchup between Durant and Simons will be critical, with Durant likely having the edge.
In terms of prop bets, considering the Suns’ scoring ability and the Trail Blazers’ defensive play, betting on individual player performances, especially Durant’s point total, could be interesting. The over/under will depend on the total points line set by sportsbooks, but with both teams showing tendencies towards high-scoring games, the OVER might be a good bet.
For bettors looking to engage in this game, it’s advisable to check out the best betting sites for updated odds and potential prop bets. These sites often offer insights and additional data that can inform betting decisions. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Suns 112, Trail Blazers 104.
