Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers 10/26/23 – At just one game in, NBA action has already ignited, as two top Western Conference contenders lock horns on opening night of the new campaign – Phoenix Suns (1-0) take on Los Angeles Lakers (0-1). Kevin Durant leads his Suns against LeBron James and LeBron is leading their Lakers rivalry; for those making free picks there will be no shortage of star power! To help make informed NBA free picks here is a breakdown.
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Date & Time: Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 10:00 PM ET
Location: crypto.com Arena
TV: TNT
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers 10/26/23 Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Suns | +100 | +1.5 (-110) | 229 over -110 |
| Lakers | -120 | -1.5 (-110) | 229 under -110 |
Phoenix Suns Analysis
Offensively, the Suns have displayed an excellent approach to scoring, averaging an impressive 108 points per game on average. They boast an admirable field goal percentage of 44.2% while making good on their 33.3% 3-point shooting percentage. Their dominance in the paint can be evidenced by 17 offensive rebounds per game that reveal second-chance opportunities for points.
Defense has become one of the Suns’ key strengths this season, particularly around the basket. Averaging seven blocks per game has kept opponents at bay from driving into their paint area. But they need to improve their ball-handling and reduce turnovers from 19 per game which currently serve as a weak link in their armor.
Kevin Durant is in top form for the Suns. His all-around play, with 18 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists per game averages, showcases how one man has the power to alter game outcomes with just their play alone. Kevin will use his finesse and court vision against Lakers in search of scoring opportunities that may present themselves during this matchup.
Los Angeles Lakers Analysis
On offense, the Lakers are only slightly behind Suns in terms of points per game scored with an average of 107 per game. Their shooting efficiency has been impressive with a field goal percentage of 45.6%; however their three-point percentage stands at 34.5% which indicates room for growth. Furthermore, rebounding can also be improved to create more scoring opportunities.
Defensively, the Lakers have earned mixed marks. Although they’ve demonstrated discipline by only committing 11 turnovers per game and blocking four shots per contest at rim protection level (4 blocks per game), their recent performance trend suggests they need tighten up against top-tier Western Conference opponents.
LeBron James remains an impressive pillar for the Lakers and continues to defy age with his outstanding contributions on the court. Averaging 21 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, his leadership and playmaking abilities will be essential in this encounter. LeBron’s matchup against Durant should provide ample entertainment value while his experience will prove pivotal as they navigate challenging stages of this game.
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers Against the Spread
The Suns enter this game boasting an impressive track record against LA, having gone 8-3 against them with both against-the-spread (ATS) and straight up wins (9-2 SU) over their last 11 meetings – not including playing on the road against them (they went 4-2) this indicates their confidence when facing this particular opponent.
The Lakers, on the other hand, have had an uphill climb against Phoenix Suns this season and currently stand 0-5 against them overall (and 2-4 against Arizona in their home games).
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Phoenix Suns (+100) – Given the recent trends and performances, the Suns appear to have the edge over the Lakers.
Spread: Phoenix Suns +1.5 (-110) – The Suns have consistently outperformed the Lakers ATS in recent matchups.
Total: Under 229 (-110) – Considering the recent trend where the total has gone UNDER in 4 of Phoenix’s last 6 games, the under seems a safer bet.
Predicted Score: Phoenix Suns 106, Los Angeles Lakers 103
As is evident by Kevin Durant and LeBron James being featured, this showdown promises to be more than a regular NBA game. Instead, this meeting of titans features world-class talents on both teams: Phoenix Suns featuring recent matchups, statistics and momentum seem likely to have the edge; however, counting out Los Angeles Lakers would be foolish – especially at home! For Canadian sports betting enthusiasts interested in this matchup there are numerous opportunities that exist within it, making each team’s strengths, weaknesses and form important considerations before picking a side (Suns covering the spread would appear likely; nonetheless it’s essential that smart wagering decisions be taken with careful thought for informed judgment!).
