Phoenix Suns @ Golden State Warriors - December 28, 2024

As the Golden State Warriors prepare to host the Phoenix Suns at Chase Center, fans can expect an intriguing matchup that may defy recent trends. The oddsmakers have set the Warriors as -6.5-point favorites, but with both teams struggling lately, this game could be more competitive than anticipated.

Looking at their recent performances, both teams are currently sitting at a .500 record of 15-15. However, the Warriors come into this game on a three-game losing streak and have failed to cover in five of their last six contests. Similarly, the Suns haven’t fared much better either; they’ve lost four out of their last five games and are 1-5 against the spread during that stretch. With both teams displaying lackluster form recently, it’s difficult to pinpoint which side will emerge victorious.

Offensively, these two teams are closely matched. The Warriors average 112.8 points per game on a shooting percentage of 45% while hitting around 36% from beyond the arc. In contrast, the Suns boast slightly higher scoring numbers with an average of 113.3 points per game and a superior shooting percentage of nearly 47%. Both teams also share similar assist numbers—28.9 for Golden State versus 27.2 for Phoenix—which indicates that ball movement should remain key in this contest.

Defensively is where we start to see some separation between these squads. The Warriors rank ahead in total rebounds (47) and steals (8.8), but they also commit more turnovers (14.3) and fouls (19.8) compared to the Suns’ stats (14 turnovers and just over 18 fouls). This suggests that while Golden State has been more effective at creating turnovers defensively, they also put themselves in foul trouble often which could lead to free throw opportunities for Phoenix.

Speaking of free throws—this is where we can find an interesting edge for Phoenix as they convert nearly 80% from the line compared to Golden State’s subpar rate just above 70%. Given how tightly contested games can become late in close matchups like this one, those extra points from free throws could prove crucial.

Now let’s talk about our predictions: I believe that while Golden State will ultimately win this game due to their home-court advantage and offensive firepower, I expect Phoenix to cover the spread given their ability to shoot efficiently from all areas on offense combined with strong free throw shooting capabilities.

Furthermore, considering both teams’ offensive output paired with defensive inconsistencies—especially when it comes down to fouling—I anticipate that we’ll see more points scored than what’s indicated by the opening total of 219.5.

In conclusion: Expect a hard-fought battle where Golden State edges out Phoenix for a victory; however, don’t be surprised if those betting on Phoenix against the spread walk away happy tonight—and keep your eyes peeled for an OVER outcome!