Phoenix Suns vs New Orleans Pelicans Player Prop Picks 12/5/24

This matchup between the Phoenix Suns and New Orleans Pelicans sets the stage for a clash of teams facing different trajectories. The Suns, with a solid 12-8 record, will be led by Devin Booker, averaging 25 points per game. Despite missing Kevin Durant due to injury, the Suns boast strong team dynamics and scoring depth. Meanwhile, the Pelicans are 4-18 are grappling with a nine-game losing streak, and may face additional challenges if Brandon Ingram (calf) is unavailable. This game could test New Orleans’ resilience and Phoenix’s ability to dominate on the road.

Devin Booker Over 28.5 Points

Devin Booker is having another strong scoring season averaging 25.0 points per game for the Phoenix Suns. He is shooting 44.5% from the field and 34.8% from three-point range on 7.8 attempts per game. Booker is also excelling at the free-throw line, hitting 89.6% of his 6.8 attempts per game. His true shooting percentage stands at an efficient 58.9%, reflecting his ability to score effectively from various spots on the court.

Devin Booker is coming off a game where he scored 29 points against the San Antonio Spurs and I expect him to have another big game scoring the ball on Thursday. Unfortunately for the Suns Kevin Durant will miss some time again with an injury which means Devin Booker will need to step up and be this team’s main scorer. Earlier in the season when Kevin Durant missed time on the court we saw Booker have multiple 30-point games and I like him to score 30 plus in this one.

Royce O’Neale Over 5.5 Rebounds

Royce O’Neale is averaging 5.9 rebounds per game during the 2024-25 NBA season. This includes 1.2 offensive rebounds and 4.7 defensive rebounds per game, showing his value in both securing defensive stops and creating second-chance opportunities. His rebounding efforts are complemented by his versatility as a forward, contributing to the Phoenix Suns’ overall performance. O’Neale’s presence on the boards has been steady, aligning with his established role as a dependable two-way player.

We’ve seen Royce O’Neale have some solid games on the boards this season and I think this is another good spot for him. It looks like Nurkic will be out again for the Suns which is this team’s main rebounder. The Pelicans are giving up 54.2 rebounds per game to opposing teams which is the sixth most in the NBA. With Nurkic being out and this being a favorable matchup I expect Royce O’Neale to have a nice night on the glass.

Dejounte Murray Under 20.5 Points

Since returning back from injury Dejounte Murray is only averaging 13.2 points per game. He has a field goal percentage of 46.3%, including 36.4% from three-point range, and a free throw percentage of 82.5%. Murray has demonstrated consistent offensive production in his career but has yet to put it together consistently for this New Orleans Pelicans team. 

I don’t like how Dejounte Murray has looked since returning back from injury. He’s coming off a game where he only scored seven points against a bad Atlanta Hawks defense. Odds makers continue to set his line near the 20-point mark which in my opinion is just too many with the way he’s looked. This son’s defense is solid and I don’t think this is the game Murray bounces back.