Sacramento Kings (17-10) vs. Portland Trail Blazers (7-20)
Sacramento Kings vs. Portland Trail Blazers 12/26/23 – As the Sacramento Kings prepare to battle Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on Tuesday, fans and bettors alike are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an engaging matchup. While the Kings look to continue their unbeaten record while Portland hopes for a turnaround season. Moreover, this game presents not only thrilling basketball action, but also presents opportunities for paid picks analysis to gain greater insights into betting dynamics.
The Kings have shown extraordinary performance this season, particularly their offensive play. Averaging an astounding 118.3 points per game thanks to an efficient field goal percentage of 47.3% and their strategy centered around 3-point shots; an average of 15.5 made per game is used as their foundational strength along with 28.7 assists per game on average and 12.7 turnovers averaged per game must remain under control to remain ahead in future matches.
Conversely, Portland Trail Blazers have struggled this season. Averaging 108 points per game and posting an inflated 43.8% field goal percentage indicates they need to improve in terms of shooting accuracy. On a positive note however, their free throw attempts have had greater success at 80.4% success rate which could prove crucial during close game situations. Their defensive game also shows promise, with averages of 8.7 steals and 4.4 blocks per game which must be utilized properly to improve their standings.
Sacramento Kings vs. Portland Trail Blazers 12/26/23 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Moda Center at the Rose Quarter |
| TV: | ROOT Sports NW |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
De’Aaron Fox (PG) vs. Anfernee Simons (SG)
De’Aaron Fox has taken his game to new levels this season, inserting himself into the MVP discussion. He’s averaging career-highs across the board – 29.7 points, 6.2 assists, 1.6 steals while shooting 52% from the field and 37% from three. His quick first step allows him to knife through defenses for layups or draw fouls. Fox has also improved his playmaking, upping his assists while cutting down turnovers. He remains the engine that drives Sacramento’s elite offense. With the ball in his hands late in games, Fox has shown the ability to score or create for teammates.
Anfernee Simons has been handed the keys to Portland’s offense. He’s responded by averaging 27.1 points and 5.9 assists per game. Simons is scoring in a variety of ways – off the dribble, catch-and-shoot, and getting to the line. While not an elite playmaker yet, he’s cut down on turnovers in an increased role. However, his defense remains a major weakness. Opponents actively target him, forcing switches onto bigger offensive players that Simons struggles to stop. Against an athletic scorer like Fox, Simons could be in for a long night.
The Fox vs. Simons matchup pits two dynamic young guards against each other. While Simons has proven himself capable of big scoring nights, expect Fox to clearly get the better of this battle. His two-way impact gives him the edge to dominate. Fox should be able to score almost at will, while hounding Simons into tough shots on defense.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting odds are yet to be determined, bettors should keep an eye on the evolving market. The Kings, with their stronger record, are likely to be favored, but the unpredictability of the NBA means that anything can happen on game day.
Sacramento Kings Betting Trends
The Kings excel against the spread recently, covering in 3 of their last 5 contests. They also trend over the total, hitting in 3 of their previous 5. On the road, Sacramento covers over 52% of the time. Backing their strong offense seems to be the smartest wager, as they score over 118 ppg against weaker defenses like Portland’s.
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Trends
It’s been an ugly stretch for Portland, just 1-4 straight up and 2-3 ATS over the last 5 games. They are also under the total in 3 of those last 5. At home, the Blazers cover around 48% this year. The one positive trend is their three point shooting, converting over 14 made threes a game in 4 of their last 5 at Moda Center
Sacramento Kings vs. Portland Trail Blazers 12/26/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and trends, the Kings seem to be the safer bet for this matchup. Their offensive strength and consistent performance make them the likely victors. However, the Blazers could surprise, especially if Simons delivers an exceptional performance. For prop bets, focusing on individual player performances, especially on points scored, could be lucrative.
For the over/under, considering both teams’ recent trends towards high-scoring games, betting on the over might be a wise choice. In terms of NBA tips and picks, keeping an eye on player fitness and any late changes in the lineup will be crucial for making informed decisions.
Free Pick and Prediction: Sacramento Kings 115, Portland Trail Blazers 108