Utah Jazz (10-18) vs. Toronto Raptors (11-16)
Utah Jazz vs. Toronto Raptors 12/23/23 – As the NBA season picks up speed, on Saturday the Utah Jazz will battle the Toronto Raptors in an intense contest that has fans searching for top NBA free predictions. Both teams have struggled so far this season; thus making this game at Scotiabank Arena an opportunity for both squads to turn their fortunes around and prove a point.
Utah Jazz’s season has been one of ups and downs. Averaging 112.2 points per game with a field goal percentage of 45.1%, their offense can be both potent and inconsistent; their three-point shooting at 35.1% shows some promise; defensive rebounding averaged 32.9 per game shows room for improvement while 16.2 turnovers per game indicate lack of control at key moments – all indicators that this team still struggles to find their rhythm.
The Toronto Raptors boast an even stronger record, averaging 112.5 points per game with an impressive 47.2% field goal percentage proving their more efficient scoring ability than Utah Jazz. Furthermore, their assists per game average 29 which showcases team play and passing accuracy; their lower free throw percentage at 72.9% could prove problematic in close games; overall however they appear to have more well-rounded team performance but lack that special something needed to consistently dominate games.
Utah Jazz vs. Toronto Raptors Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Scotiabank Arena |
| TV: | SportsNet |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Lauri Markkanen (PF) vs. Pascal Siakam (PF)
Lauri Markkanen has been putting up All-Star numbers in his first season with the Jazz, averaging 23.2 points, 8.5 rebounds while shooting 45.8% from the field and 36.9% from three. The versatile power forward uses his size and shooting ability to exploit mismatches. He will look to take advantage of the Raptors 22nd ranked defense. However, Markkanen has struggled with foul trouble at times and his efforts on the defensive end leave something to be desired.
Pascal Siakam continues to expand his game, increasing his assists to 5.1 per contest this year. But his scoring numbers have dipped slightly to 21.2 points per game as teams key in on him more. Still, his combination of size, skill and athleticism makes him a tough cover. Siakam excels at getting to the rim but he lacks a reliable three-point shot. He will need to convert high percentage looks and get to the free throw line. The Raptors star also must avoid passive play and show more aggression on offense.
When these key players clash, it’s going to be a battle of Markkanen’s scoring and rebounding against Siakam’s all-around play. Both have the ability to turn the game in their team’s favor, making their matchup one of the most intriguing aspects of this game.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but they will undoubtedly reflect the close nature of this matchup. Bettors will need to consider both teams’ recent performances and key player matchups when making their decisions.
Utah Jazz Betting Trends
The Jazz have been consistently mediocre ATS this season, posting a 13-14 record. They’ve been particularly bad on the road, going just 3-8 against the number away from Salt Lake City. The over has hit recently for Utah games, going 7-4 in their last 11 contests. Scoring points hasn’t been the issue, but their 22nd ranked defense has let them down.
Toronto Raptors Betting Trends
It’s been a down year betting wise for the Raptors, who have posted a 10-15-1 ATS record. They’ve been slightly better at home at 6-5 against the spread at Scotiabank Arena. After trending over for the first quarter of the season, four of their last five games have gone under the total. Their defense has improved of late, but scoring droughts have hindered their offense.
Utah Jazz vs. Toronto Raptors 12/23/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this game seems poised for a tight contest. Both teams have had their struggles but also possess the talent to turn things around. My recommendation leans slightly towards the Raptors, given their slightly better overall performance and home-court advantage.
In terms of betting, the safer pick might be the Raptors, but the Jazz could surprise, especially if Markkanen has a standout game. For prop bets and over/under, it would be wise to consider the individual performances of key players like Markkanen and Siakam. Premium picks and parlays should be made considering these factors.
Free Pick and Prediction: Toronto Raptors 110, Utah Jazz 105