Washington Wizards (3-20) vs. Phoenix Suns (13-11)
Wizards vs. Suns 12/17/23 – As the NBA season advances, an intriguing matchup will take place this Sunday between the struggling Washington Wizards and moderately successful Phoenix Suns. While Washington seeks a turnaround with their poor record, Phoenix hopes to strengthen theirs. Fans and bettors alike eagerly anticipate this game and seek NBA free predictions as a gauge of its outcome.
The Washington Wizards have had an underwhelming season, evidenced by their poor win-loss record. Although their offense averages 115.9 points per game with 48.2% field goal shooting, their defense has struggled to prevent opponents’ scoring. Furthermore, 38 rebounds and 27.6 assists per game demonstrate competency with ball movement as well as presence within the paint; their 3-point shooting averaged 35.1% which suggests room for improvement beyond the 3-point arc.
Phoenix Suns have fared much better. Averaging 115.1 points per game with a slightly lower field goal percentage of 47.2%, they are on par with the Wizards offensively and excelling in free throw shooting at an 83.5% success rate which far surpasses their opponent. Their rebounding total stands at 44 per game while defensive stats such as 6.8 blocks and 7 steals indicate they possess more robust defensive presence compared to Wizards.
Wizards vs. Suns 12/17/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | AZFamily |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Kyle Kuzma (SF) vs. Kevin Durant (PF)
Kyle Kuzma has been one of the bright spots for the Wizards this season, averaging 23 points, 6 rebounds and 4.4 assists while shooting 46% from the field – leading the team in scoring and playmaking on many nights despite struggled with turnover issues (2.4 times per contest). Kuzma must limit mistakes against Phoenix Suns’ lengthy, athletic defenders.
Kevin Durant has put together another impressive statistical season for Phoenix, averaging 30.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 1.3 blocks per game. However, his efficiency has dipped to career-low levels as he’s shooting just 42.5% from the field and 33.6% from three. Durant will need to rediscover his shooting stroke if the Suns hope to get back on track. His matchup with Kuzma could help spark his offense.
When these talented forwards match up, rebounding and foul trouble could play key factors. Kuzma has a slight size edge at 6’9″ vs the 6’10” Durant, but Durant’s length often overcomes any size deficiencies. Keep an eye on the glass as these two go at it. Quick fouls could also force an early exit.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined. However, considering the Suns’ better record and the Wizards’ struggles, it is likely that the Suns will be the favorites. Bettors should watch for updates on the odds, as they will provide insights into the expected performance of both teams.
Washington Wizards Betting Trends
The Wizards are just 1-4 straight up and 3-2 against the spread over their last five contests. And while the totals have gone over in three of their past five games, Washington’s scoring has dropped off during this losing streak. Backing the under as they face a still-stingy Suns defense could pay off. Also consider taking the points as Washington has covered spreads in eight of 13 away matchups.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
It’s been an ugly stretch for Phoenix from a betting perspective as they’ve failed to cover the spread in five straight games. The Suns are also just 2-3 against the number in their last five at home. With an inconsistent offense and a defense that has declined from last year’s elite levels, this squad continues to confound prognosticators. There isn’t much confidence in Phoenix’s recent trends, so betting against the spread could make sense until they prove trustworthy again.
Washington Wizards vs. Phoenix Suns 12/17/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis, the Suns seem to be the safer bet, especially considering their overall performance and the star power of Durant. The Wizards, while capable of surprising, have not shown enough consistency to be considered a solid pick. Prop bets could focus on individual performances, particularly Durant’s scoring and Kuzma’s contributions in points and assists. The over/under will be crucial, given both teams’ tendency for high-scoring games.
For prediction, a close game is expected, but the Suns’ superior stats and home advantage might edge them to a victory. A predicted score could be Suns 118 – Wizards 110, making the Suns a preferred pick, especially for the over bet.
Fore premium tips today, look for prop bets on Durant’s total points and consider the Suns for the win, with the total likely going OVER.
Free Pick and Prediction: Phoenix Suns 118, Washington Wizards 110