The Phoenix Suns return to Arizona for their first home game since February 11. Phoenix Suns fans can expect to witness offensive glory this evening because Kevin Durant and Devin Booker along with Bradley Beal have all healed up from injuries.
Phoenix lost in overtime against Memphis but achieved 137 points in regular playing time while defending against a tough defense. The players from the Phoenix Suns combined to exceed 100 points for the first time in franchise history against Memphis when all their Big Three reached 20 points as well as Bol Bol and Grayson Allen.
Throughout the season the Suns maintained a Bottom-10 ranking for their scoring pace yet they now finish fourth among NBA teams based on game speed during their last six matches. The New Orleans Pelicans continue to operate with the third-fastest offensive rate in the league but their poor defensive approach sets the stage for tonight's harmful outcome.
The Pelicans occupy the 28th spot for defensive rating while showing up as the 26th best scoring defense team by surrendering 118.6 points per game. The Pelicans have the worst eFG% defense on the road allowing 120.2 ppg and currently possess the bottom spot in the league standings for defensive eFG% at 56.5.
Herbert Jones joined Dejounte Murray on the injury list for the Pelicans which caused them to rest their top perimeter defender Bruce Brown from the lineup.
The Pels reached the third match without allowing numerous points to their opponents. The Spurs and Post-Luka Doncic Mavericks played against the Pelicans even though the Spurs deactivated Victor Wembanyama and both teams faced a recent injury to Dejounte Murray and Herbert Jones. Durant alongside his colleagues will achieve much greater success than what Pels achieved against them.
The Phoenix Suns and the New Orleans Pelicans are set to face off at Footprint Center in Thursday's NBA clash. The Suns, currently 11th in the Western Conference, are looking to break out of a rough patch, while the Pelicans, sitting at 14th, aim to continue their recent resurgence. Here's a closer look at the matchup and our prediction.
The Phoenix Suns have struggled during the NBA regular season, enduring a challenging stretch that has seen them lose six of their last seven games. They enter this contest on a two-game losing streak, further compounding their difficulties. Their most recent outing was a heartbreaking 151-148 overtime defeat to the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, marking the end of a five-game road trip. The trip concluded on a disappointing note, with the Suns securing just one win and suffering four losses. Returning to Footprint Center offers a chance to regroup, but their confidence is low after losing their last two home games. Despite their recent struggles, there are signs of hope—the Suns have won six of their last nine outings, suggesting they have the potential to turn things around.
On the other hand, the New Orleans Pelicans have shown resilience, bouncing back with two consecutive wins after a 111-103 loss to the Dallas Mavericks following the All-Star Weekend. This recent uptick in form has provided a much-needed boost to their campaign. The Pelicans will look to capitalize on their momentum as they face a Suns team that appears vulnerable at the moment. With both teams fighting to improve their standings in the Western Conference, this matchup promises to be an intriguing battle.
In conclusion, while the Suns are desperate to end their slump, the Pelicans' recent form makes them a formidable opponent. The outcome could hinge on which team can execute their game plan more effectively under pressure. Expect a competitive game, but the Pelicans might have the edge given their current momentum.
