Sacramento Kings (11-8) vs. Phoenix Suns (12-9)
Sacramento Kings vs. Phoenix Suns 12/8/23 – The Sacramento Kings take on the Phoenix Suns on Friday night in an exciting Western Conference matchup between two teams hovering right around .500. According to this multi-handicapper website, the Kings have surprised some doubters this year by getting out to a solid 11-8 start, while the Suns are still trying to find their groove after the Kevin Durant trade, sitting at 12-9. This battle at the Footprint Center should help provide more clarity on which squad is destined to finish higher in the standings.
The Kings come into this game scoring at a prolific rate, averaging 116.5 points per contest. De’Aaron Fox is putting up MVP-caliber numbers, posting over 30 points and 6 assists per night. He fuels a balanced Sacramento attack that features six players averaging double figures. The Kings can light it up from deep, knocking down 14.7 threes a game. However, their defense remains suspect, allowing opponents to shoot a high percentage most nights.
Meanwhile, the Suns are still adjusting to life with Durant, but their offense hasn’t missed a beat. They score 115.5 points per game behind Durant and his 31 points per contest. While the offense is clicking, Phoenix has taken a step back defensively compared to last year’s squad that finished top-3 in defensive rating. They allow opponents almost 111 points a game and will need to improve on that end to make real noise out West.
Sacramento Kings vs. Phoenix Suns 12/8/23 Game Info
| When: | Friday, December 8, 2023 at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
De’Aaron Fox (PG) vs. Kevin Durant (PF)
De’Aaron Fox has taken his game to new heights this season, elevating from All-Star to MVP candidate seemingly overnight. He averages over 30 points and 6 assists while shooting efficiently from all over the floor. His first step is lightning quick and he has developed a reliable outside shot to balance his driving and playmaking ability. However, his defense is still a work in progress. The Kings will need Fox to dominate offensively and try to hide him on the other end.
Kevin Durant remains one of the most unstoppable scorers the league has ever seen despite being 34 years old. He is netting over 31 points per game on insane shooting splits this season since coming over to Phoenix. His versatility, length, and shot-making ability make him impossible to slow down. Durant is also posting career-highs in rebounding and defense as he tries to lead the Suns to a championship. His only weakness is health – can he stay on the court for a full season and playoff run at this stage of his career?
This matchup will be a clash of offensive styles and generational talents. Fox wants to push tempo and attack off the dribble while Durant prefers a more methodical approach with his scoring prowess. Whichever player can exploit the most favorable mismatches and get hot at the right moments could carry their team to victory.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are currently TBD, but given the teams’ performance, the game is expected to be closely contested. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they get released.
Sacramento Kings Betting Trends
The Kings have been strong against the spread lately, covering in 3 of their last 5 contests. They also seem to be developing an offensive identity under new coach Mike Brown, scoring at least 110 points in 14 of 19 games while going over the total in 5 straight. Sacramento has defended better at home but still allows almost 115 a game on the road. Back the over in Phoenix.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
The Suns have hit some bumps in the road since acquiring Durant, failing to cover in 4 of their last 5. While their offense remains elite, the defense has regressed. Phoenix allows opponents to shoot over 48% from the field and score almost 110 a night over the last 10 games. Until they fix their defensive issues, keep backing the over when the Suns take the court.
Sacramento Kings vs. Phoenix Suns 12/8/23 Betting Picks
Considering the stats and trends, this game looks set to be a high-scoring affair. Both teams have strong offensive capabilities, but their defensive stats also suggest they can hold their own. It might come down to key players’ performances and how well each team can execute their game plan.
In terms of picks, the safer bet might be on the total points going over, given both teams’ tendencies. As for the winner, it’s a tight call, but the Kings’ slightly better overall performance might give them the edge. However, the Suns’ home advantage and Kevin Durant’s experience cannot be discounted. Remember to check out free daily basketball tips for more insights and predictions.
Free Pick & Prediction: Sacramento Kings 118, Phoenix Suns 115