Phoenix Suns vs New Orleans Pelicans, NBA 2024-25 Season, Today Match Prediction

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Phoenix Suns Preview

With a record of 27-31, the Phoenix Suns are currently 5th in the Pacific division and 11th in the Western Conference. The Suns are coming off a 148-151 loss against the Memphis Grizzlies in the last game of their recent road trip. Phoenix had lost the previous two games against Memphis and appeared ready to turn the tide before Morant took over the fourth. The Suns have lost six of seven. For their upcoming game, with a balanced attack and a solid home-court advantage, they will be aiming to control the game’s tempo and create open looks for their shooters.

Offensively, they are led by players like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, who remains a key offensive contributor. The Phoenix Suns have been averaging 113.2 points per game and averages 47.4% from the field and 37.3% from the three-point range, reflecting a balanced scoring strategy. Additionally, they average 27.4 assists per game, which showcases their ball movement and their ability to create chances. They convert 80.5% from the free throw line. Defensively, the Sun's average 7.5 steals and 5.1 blocks per game, showcasing a focus on forcing turnovers (13.2) and protecting the rim. However, their rebounding could use improvement, as they average 42.4 rebounds per game, which can give opponents second chance opportunities.

Key players to watch are Kevin Durant, who leads the charge offensively and provides elite scoring and defensive presence, and Devin Booker, who provides scoring and playmaking skills. Mason Plumlee and Bradley Beal for their defensive abilities.

Injury- Monte Morris, Cody Martin.

New Orleans Pelicans Preview

With a 15-43 record, the New Orleans Pelicans are currently 5th in the Southwest division and 14th in the Western Conference. They are coming off a 109-103 victory as the Pelicans completed a two-game home sweep of the San Antonio Spurs. Trey Murphy III scored 24 points and Zion Williamson added 18 as the Pelicans overcame a 19-point hole in the first half despite shooting 7 of 31 from 3-point range for the game. This was their third win in the past five games for the Pelicans. The Pelicans currently sit at the bottom half in the West as they have struggled with defensive lapses and consistency.

Offensively, the Pelicans average 110.5 points per game and have efficiency from the three-point range at around 34.9%, which falls amongst the lowest in the league. They show some ball movement with 25.3 assists per game. Their field goal percentage is at 44.7%. They have been shooting 76.6% from the free throw line. Defensively, the Pelicans average 43.4 rebounds per game, demonstrating control over the boards, and forcing 13.6 turnovers at a competitive rate but allowing 118.6 points on average. They also average 5.5 blocks and 9.1 steals per game, showcasing their ability to create extra possessions through defensive stops.

Key Players include players like CJ McCollum and Trey Murphy III who help the teams with their scoring abilities. Dejounte Murray has also been stepping up his performance and has contributed with his playmaking skills. Additionally, role players like Jordan Hawkins, Yves Missi and Brandon Boston have been contributing with notable performances.

Injury- Herbert Jones, Dejounte Murray, Brandon Boston.

Phoenix Suns vs New Orleans Pelicans Starting Lineups