Wake Forest vs LSU Prediction Basketball Picks 11-19-23
Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2-2) vs LSU Tigers (2-2)
2023-11-19 15:00:00 EDT
The Line: Betting Odds: Wake Forest Demon Deacons +1.5 -- Over/Under: 150
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The Charleston Classic Tournament brings us a thrilling matchup between the LSU Tigers and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. Both teams have shown their mettle in the early stages of the 2023-2024 college basketball season. The Tigers, hailing from the SEC, and the Demon Deacons, representing the ACC, are set to clash in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. LSU is 2-2 and are coming off a 66-62 home win over the North Texas Mean Green while Wake Forest is 2-2 as well and are coming off a 71-61 home win over the Towson Tigers. With a spotlight on their recent performances and key statistics, let’s delve into the analysis of these two formidable teams.
The Tigers’ Roar
The LSU Tigers, competing in the SEC, have shown promise in the early stages of the 2023-2024 college basketball season. With a current record of 2-2, they find themselves competing for first place in the conference. Their offensive firepower is evident, as they average an impressive 76.3 points per game. However, their defense has been doing well as they are giving up 65.0 points per game so far.
Leading the charge for the Tigers is forward Will Baker, who not only leads the team in scoring with an average of 14.2 points but also contributes significantly on the boards with 5.8 rebounds per game. In the playmaking department, guard Trae Hannibal stands out as the leader with 2.2 assists per game. Forward Jalen Reed is the second-leading scorer, providing valuable support with 10.3 points per game.
From a statistical standpoint, LSU excels in field goal percentage, boasting a 50.0 success rate. Their three-point shooting is equally impressive, standing at 37.8%. However, there is room for improvement in their free-throw percentage, currently at 72.2. In terms of rebounding, LSU secures an average of 32.5 rebounds per game. When it comes to defensive contributions, the team is led in steals by guard Jordan Wright with 2.2 per game, while Baker also leads in blocked shots with 1.3 per game.
Demon Deacons’ Surge
The Wake Forest Demon Deacons, representing the ACC, have shown their competitive spirit with a record of 2-2 in the 2023-2024 college basketball season. They currently in the chase for tops in their conference, reflecting their early-season prowess. Offensively, the Demon Deacons are no slouch, averaging 79.8 points per game, while defensively, they allow an average of 74.0 points per game.
Guard Hunter Sallis shines as the leader for Wake Forest, both in scoring with an impressive 19.0 points per game. Forward Andrew Carr is the primary force on the boards, contributing 7.0 rebounds per game. The team’s second-leading scorer is guard Kevin Miller, who adds 17.8 points per game to the offensive arsenal.
Statistically, Wake Forest exhibits strengths in various areas. Their free-throw percentage is stellar, standing at 80.6. They maintain a respectable field goal percentage of 47.9 and a three-point percentage of 36.3. In terms of rebounding, the team secures an average of 32.8 rebounds per game. On the defensive end, guard Kevin Miller leads in steals with 1.8 per game, while forward Andrew Carr stands out with 2.5 blocked shots per game, showcasing their defensive prowess.
David’s Pick – LSU Tigers
I predict that the LSU Tigers will emerge victorious in this exciting matchup. While both teams possess strong offensive capabilities, LSU’s 50.0 field goal percentage and 37.8 three-point shooting give them an edge in scoring efficiency. Wake Forest’s impressive free-throw percentage could pose a challenge, but LSU’s offensive firepower led by Will Baker and Jalen Reed should help them secure the win. The selection of the LSU Tigers as the preferred pick is rooted in their offensive prowess, as evidenced by their strong field goal and three-point shooting percentages. They have the ability to outscore the Demon Deacons, provided their defense steps up to contain Wake Forest’s offensive threats. The Tigers’ focus should be on limiting Wake Forest’s scoring opportunities while capitalizing on their own efficient shooting.
Furthermore, LSU’s recent victory over North Texas and their ability to bounce back from losses demonstrate their resilience. With the right defensive adjustments and effective ball distribution by Trae Hannibal, the Tigers have the tools to secure a victory. However, they must remain vigilant against Wake Forest’s free throw shooting. In conclusion, my pick for this Charleston Classic Tournament matchup is the LSU Tigers, primarily due to their offensive efficiency. By executing a balanced game plan, they can overcome the Wake Forest Demon Deacons and secure a valuable win on the college basketball stage.