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

Prediction published on 07/04/2024, 06:30  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 07/04/2024 at 07:34 in NBA Predictions

The New Orleans Pelicans will head to the Footprint Center to take on the Phoenix Suns on Sunday evening. The hosts are 46-31 and sixth in the Western Conference, while the visitors are 45.32 and seventh in the Conference standings. 

The New Orleans Pelicans have slipped to seventh place in the Western Conference after enduring four consecutive losses. They trail the Phoenix Suns by one game for sixth place and the Dallas Mavericks by two games for fifth place. In their recent game against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday, they suffered a narrow 111-109 defeat despite CJ McCollum's impressive performance; who led the team with 31 points, six rebounds, and four assists, while Jonas Valanciunas contributed 26 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Offensively, the Pelicans have been solid, ranking 13th in the NBA with an average of 115.0 points per game. They have maintained a shooting efficiency of 48.7 percent from the field as a team. Defensively, they are currently eighth in the NBA, allowing 110.6 points per game. There are doubts surrounding the availability of Zion Williamson, Jose Alvarado, and Naji Marshall while Brandon Ingram is sidelined.

The Phoenix Suns are determined to secure a spot in the playoffs and avoid the Play-In Tournament. With victories in four of their last five games, their only setback during this stretch was a road loss to the Thunder. They aim to extend their winning streak to four games following a 97-87 home triumph against the Timberwolves on Friday. Grayson Allen led the team with 23 points on six of 14 shooting, while Kevin Durant contributed 22 points along with six rebounds and six assists. Offensively, the Suns have performed well, ranking 10th in the NBA with an average of 116.6 points per game and maintaining a solid shooting percentage of 49.5 percent from the field. Defensively, they have been average, currently sitting at 15th in the league by allowing 113.5 points per game. Interestingly, they concede slightly fewer points per game at home compared to on the road (113.0 at home, 114.1 on the road). Unfortunately, Damion Lee will be sidelined for this match.