Upcoming Matchup: Pelicans vs. Suns
In a notable matchup within the Western Conference, the New Orleans Pelicans (20-44) are set to collide with the Phoenix Suns (35-27) this Friday evening at 9 p.m. EST. The game will occur at the Suns’ home venue, and betting odds currently favor Phoenix by 5.5 points, with an over/under total of 225.5 points.
Season Encounters
This will be the fourth encounter between these teams this season, with the Suns emerging victorious in their last meeting on December 28, winning 123-114, largely thanks to a 20-point performance from Devin Booker.
Team Performance Overview
The Pelicans have struggled this season, particularly in the competitive Western Conference, where they hold a 13-28 record. Their overall performance reflects their challenges in tightly contested games, evidenced by their record of 10-20 in matches decided by 10 or more points.
On the other hand, the Suns have achieved a 24-18 record against conference rivals, although they have faced their own difficulties, particularly in scoring within the paint where they rank last in the Western Conference with merely 43.5 points per game.
Statistical Insights
From a statistical perspective, the Suns have a field goal percentage of 45.2%, slightly below the 47.7%% allowed by the Pelicans’ defense. Meanwhile, the Pelicans are managing an average of 11.2 three-pointers per game, just marginally below the Suns’ defensive allowance.
Key Player Performances
Analyzing key player performances, Collin Gillespie has been a solid contributor for the Suns, boasting averages of 13.5 points and 4.8 assists. In contrast, the Pelicans’ Trey Murphy III has made a significant impact with an average of 21.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, showcasing his all-around game.
Recent Trends
Recent performance trends reveal the Suns have been underperforming, going 4-6 over their last ten games while scoring an average of 102.7 points per game on 40.9% shooting. Conversely, the Pelicans have seen a brighter moment recently, holding a 6-4 record over the same span, and averaging 118.3 points on an impressive 48.0% shooting efficiency.
Player Availability
In terms of player availability, the Suns will be without Jordan Goodwin, Dillon Brooks, and Mark Williams due to various injuries, while the Pelicans have Dejounte Murray listed as day-to-day as he undergoes reconditioning.
