Phoenix Suns vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 17/12/2022, 09:54  by Joseph King | Modified on 17/12/2022 at 09:54 in NBA Predictions

A Western Conference clash in the NBA sees two emerging rivals facing off when the Phoenix Suns host the New Orleans Pelicans at the Footprint Center. The Suns haven’t had the same success so far this season compared to the 2021/22 campaign where they racked up 64 wins and lost just 18. Phoenix sits fourth in the West, putting them 2.5 games behind the top-seeded Grizzlies and 1.5 games behind their opponent today. The Suns were finally able to put an end to an ugly five game losing streak thanks to a 111-95 victory over the Clippers on Thursday. The win was just Phoenix’s fourth in their last 10 games. They’ll now have to face off against one of the league’s surprise teams this season in the Pelicans who are sitting second in the West after an excellent 18-10 start. The Pels will look to bounce back after losing their last two consecutive games, the most recent coming in a 132-129 overtime loss to the Jazz on Thursday. 

Despite being without all-star Brandon Ingram for a large part of the current season, New Orleans has still managed to be one of the best teams in the league. This is in large part due to the high-level play of Zion Williamson, who could be an outside MVP shout if he can stay healthy and his team keeps winning. The Suns are without a number of players for this encounter, including a key starter and various depth and role players. Center Deandre Ayton will miss out here and the Suns will desperately miss his seven foot presence inside, especially when trying to deal with Zion Williamson who is shooting a ridiculous 60% from the field. In addition, Cam Payne, Jae Crowder and Cam Johnson are set to miss out here, three players who chip in with important minutes.