Portland Trail Blazers (3-4) vs. Sacramento Kings (2-4)
As we edge closer to another thrilling NBA game, the Portland Trail Blazers and the Sacramento Kings are set to lock horns on Wednesday, November 8, 2023. Both teams are looking to find their rhythm early in the season, with Portland sitting at a 3-4 record and Sacramento close behind at 2-4. Fans and bettors alike are scouring the NBA free picks today, hoping to predict which team will come out on top at the Golden 1 Center.
Portland Blazers are currently averaging 104.3 points per game and require improvement on offense in terms of field goal conversion (42.2 percent), three-point shooting (29.5%) and free throw shooting (81.1%) if they want to turn their season around. Their defensive work has been impressive as they pull down 45.9 rebounds per game with 9.3 steals recorded for every turnover at 15.3 per game; but this needs immediate attention if Portland wants their season back on track.
On the other side of things, Sacramento is outscoring Portland by an overwhelming margin averaging 110.5 points per game, more than double their field goal percentage at 43.6% and producing 14 three-point baskets every game. They also share the ball well averaging 24.8 assists per game for an effective offensive effort; their free-throw accuracy however stands significantly lower at only 71% indicating possible points left on the board in close encounters. Their defensive statistics mirror that of Portland with one significant difference; Sacramento commits more fouls per game which could prove decisive if an important contest goes down to wire.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Sacramento Kings Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Golden 1 Center |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Jerami Grant (SF) vs. De’Aaron Fox (PG)
Jerami Grant has emerged as a key component for Portland, averaging 20.6 points and pulling down 4.3 rebounds per game while also contributing 2 2.7 turnovers per game – showing an ability that could be exploited by Sacramento Kings’ defense. Grant’s length and versatility on both ends make him an essential piece in Portland’s game plan.
De’Aaron Fox has been one of the Kings’ bright spots, scoring an impressive 31.3 points per game and contributing 6 assists per contest. Fox’s ability to control game pace could pose an important threat against Portland; his two-way stats indicate his versatility but as with Grant he must monitor turnovers and personal fouls more closely.
When these two key players clash on the court, it’s a battle of Grant’s versatility against Fox’s speed and scoring ability. Their performances have the potential to sway the game, with each possessing the ability to take over and change the momentum in their team’s favor.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Sacramento Kings -330, Total Odds: 221
The Kings enter as favorites with a -7.5 point spread, indicating that odds makers expect a comfortable win for the home team. The total set at 221 points is something bettors will be watching closely, given the offensive trends of both teams.
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Trends
The Blazers have seen the total go UNDER in 4 of their last 6 games, which could be telling of their offensive struggles. Their record of 4-13 SU in their last 17 games is a concern, but their trend of 7-2 ATS in their last 9 road games suggests they perform better against the spread when away from home. Bettors might find value in backing Portland to cover, especially with a generous 7.5 point cushion.
Sacramento Kings Betting Trends
The Kings have had their own struggles, going 1-4 SU in their last 5 games. However, they have a favorable history against Portland, with the total going OVER in 10 of their last 15 encounters. At home, Sacramento’s record is less convincing at 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games, but their strong performance against Northwest Division opponents, with a 12-5 SU record, cannot be discounted.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Sacramento Kings 11/8/23 Betting Picks
Considering the statistical analysis and betting trends, this game presents as a potential tight contest, despite what the spread suggests. The Blazers might be underdogs, but their ATS trend on the road and the Kings’ ATS struggles at home could point towards Portland covering the spread.
The Kings are likely the better pick straight up, considering their higher-scoring offense and historical edge over the Blazers. For prop bets, looking at individual player performances, such as points scored by key players, could offer value. In terms of the over/under, bettors will need to consider whether Portland’s defense can slow down the Kings enough to keep the total under, or if Sacramento’s offense will dictate a higher-scoring affair. Given both teams’ dynamics, the top online betting move might be to take Portland with the points and lean towards the OVER, anticipating a high-scoring battle.
Free Pick and Prediction: Portland Trail Blazers 108, Sacramento Kings 114
