Phoenix Suns vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction

Phoenix is 2-1 over its last three with tight results: a 103-105 loss to Chicago, then wins of 114-103 over Sacramento and 113-110 over the Lakers — games decided by small margins. New Orleans is 1-2 in its last three, beating Sacramento 133-123 but dropping games 101-110 to the Lakers and 117-137 to the Clippers, the latter exposing some defensive lapses. Recent scorelines suggest Phoenix is grinding out close wins while New Orleans can score in bunches but has given up big totals. Looking at the projected starting units, Phoenix’s five average an offensive rating of 111.66, defensive rating of 113.62, and combined average points made of 13.46 per starter; New Orleans’ projected five average an offensive rating of 115.56, defensive rating of 118.08, and 17.04 average points made per starter. The Pelicans offer more scoring from their starters, but Phoenix’s slightly better team defense and more balanced scoring distribution help explain the edge.