Utah Jazz (8-16) vs. Sacramento Kings (13-9)
Jazz vs. Kings 12/16/23 – The upcoming NBA game on Saturday showcases a compelling matchup between the Utah Jazz, holding an 8-16 record, and the Sacramento Kings, with a stronger 13-9 standing. This encounter, eagerly awaited by fans seeking free daily NBA advice, is set to take place at the Golden 1 Center, promising an exhilarating basketball spectacle.
Utah Jazz have shown some promising signs in their gameplay despite their less-than-stellar record, averaging 111.3 points per game with 44.7% field goal percentage being their primary offensive output and 44.3% free throw percentage being among their major defensive shortcomings. Their three point line efficiency and free-throw percentage suggest potential areas of advantage for them.
Sacramento Kings have shown greater consistency this season, evidenced by their 13-9 record. Averaging 116.3 points per game with an improved field goal percentage (46.4% vs 43%) they have shown themselves to be an effective offensive threat and their performance in three-point shooting and assists per game shows an effective offensive strategy.
Jazz vs. Kings 12/16/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Golden 1 Center |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Lauri Markkanen (PF) vs. De’Aaron Fox (PG)
Lauri Markkanen has emerged as the number one option for the Jazz this season after the offseason trade of Donovan Mitchell. The Finland native is averaging career-highs in points (23.7), rebounds (8.7), and minutes per game (34.1). His versatility on offense has been crucial for Utah, with the ability to score inside and out while shooting 35% from three. Markkanen has been carrying the load during the team’s recent struggles. However, his defense leaves much to be desired, ranking near the bottom among power forwards in defensive win shares and defensive rating.
De’Aaron Fox seems poised to make his first All-Star team, averaging personal bests in points (29.5), assists (6.4), and field goal percentage (49%). His lightning-quick first step allows him to penetrate the lane at will, either finishing strong at the rim or kicking out to open shooters. After years of criticism, Fox has also improved his outside shot, knocking down 37% of his threes. On the defensive side, Fox has quick hands and feet to disrupt passing lanes and stay in front of opponents. If Utah struggles to slow down the electric Fox, it doesn’t stand much chance on the road against the high-powered Kings.
The Jazz will likely throw multiple looks at Fox defensively. But if Markkanen draws the assignment for stretches, that could spell trouble. Fox should be able to exploit Markkanen’s shortcomings on that end of the floor. And when Utah has the ball, Markkanen may find life difficult with Fox hounding him full court at times. This positional matchup seems to favor the surging Kings.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting odds are yet to be determined, the game presents an intriguing scenario for bettors. Based on the teams’ performances and standings, the Kings might be the favorites, but the Jazz’s potential cannot be underestimated.
Utah Jazz Betting Trends
The Jazz are 2-3 against the spread (ATS) over their last 5 contests and have failed to cover in 3 straight. Utah is just 3-8 ATS away from home this season. The totals have gone OVER in 2 of the Jazz’s previous 5 overall.
Sacramento Kings Betting Trends
Sacramento has covered the spread in 2 of its last 5 games. The Kings are 7-4 ATS at Golden 1 Center and have seen the OVER hit in 4 of their past 5 matchups. The over is also 7-4 in Sacramento’s home games this year.
Utah Jazz vs. Sacramento Kings 12/16/23 Betting Picks
The matchup between the Jazz and Kings presents various factors for consideration. The Kings, with their stronger record and offensive statistics, seem to have the upper hand. However, the Jazz’s ability to surprise should not be discounted, especially in a closely contested game.
In terms of betting, the Kings might be the safer choice for a straight win, but the Jazz could offer value, particularly in spread betting. The over/under bet seems inclined towards the over, given the Kings’ scoring trends. Remember, these paid predictions are based on current data, and the unpredictable nature of the NBA always carries a possibility of surprises.
Free Pick and Prediction: Sacramento Kings 115, Utah Jazz 108