Portland Trail Blazers (8-22) vs. Phoenix Suns (15-15)
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Phoenix Suns 1/1/24 – As the New Year begins, Portland Trail Blazers and Phoenix Suns will meet up for an engaging NBA matchup at 9:00 PM ET at Footprint Center in Portland on January 1. While Trail Blazers’ 8-22 record may present challenges to Suns’ 15-15 balance, this encounter promises to be thrilling – particularly for multi-expert top picks! Given these teams’ varied records, this matchup promises an unpredictable yet entertaining contest!
The Trail Blazers, despite their poor win-loss record, have shown some resilience in certain aspects of their game. Averaging 108.6 points per game on 43.7% field goal percentage allows them to show offensive prowess; their 35.2% success rate from beyond the arc speaks volumes of their offensive prowess while 12.7 offensive rebound per game and 41.7 total rebounds/game and 8.6 steals indicate where defensive play could use some improvement going forward.
Phoenix Suns have demonstrated their superior performance by scoring an average of 115 points per game and shooting 47.3% from field goal attempts with 36.8% 3-point shot success; their defensive play excels as they average 44.2 rebounds per game along with numerous blocks and steals; this combination could prove key in defeating Trail Blazers.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Phoenix Suns 1/1/24 Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 1, 2024 at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | TBD |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Jerami Grant (SF) vs. Kevin Durant (PF)
Jerami Grant has made himself a crucial component of Portland Trail Blazers this season as an offensive powerhouse, averaging 22.2 points per game on average and providing much-needed scoring support to his team. His agility and shooting from the perimeter make him a threat in isolation plays while his defensive abilities against elite forwards will be tested during forthcoming matches.
Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns is not only a prolific scorer but an all-around performer as well. Averaging 30.2 points per game and boasting one of the league’s highest midrange and 3-point shooting efficiencies (midrange shooting proficiency and 3-point proficiency), Durant also contributes 6.4 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game besides his scoring efforts alone. In addition, his defensive abilities (blocking shots and altering shots) make him an intimidating opponent both offensively and defensively on the court.
Kevin Durant and Jerami Grant will face off in an epic duel that promises to leave an imprintful impression about who will win this game. Grant must use his speed and shooting skills to outwit Durant’s defense while Durant puts Grant’s defensive abilities through rigorous tests of experience and speed. Not only will this battle test scoring abilities but also strategic wit – thus potentially deciding its outcome!
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds have yet to be decided, but considering the Suns’ balanced performance and home advantage they may be considered favorites. However, their unpredictable nature might present unique betting opportunities during head-to-head matchups.
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Trends
The Trail Blazers have been inconsistent over their last five games, posting only a 2-3 record against the spread (9-6 against in road games). Their overall inconsistency makes betting on them risky; betting enthusiasts should factor in how well they tend to perform away when calculating odds for them.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
The Suns have had a mixed run, going 3-3 in their last five games and going over in 11 out of 16 home matches since, making an over-total bet an attractive option.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Phoenix Suns 1/1/24 Betting Picks
Looking at stats and trends, the Suns appear to be the safer bet, given their strong home record and balanced team performance. Prop bets on Durant’s scoring or assists could prove profitable given his consistent output.
As both teams tend towards high-scoring games, keep an eye out for any injury reports and lineup changes as game time nears for free NBA insights.
The Suns appear poised to claim this game with their home court advantage and consistent performance. Although the Trail Blazers may give it their all, their superior offense and defense may prove too much for them to overcome.
Free Pick and Prediction: Phoenix Suns 120, Portland Trail Blazers 108.