The Connecticut Huskies (6-2) clash with the Syracuse Orange (6-1) at Madison Square Garden. The game starts at 9:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 5, 2017, and will air on ESPN.
Syracuse Orange vs. Connecticut Huskies Free Prediction
In the Orange’s last contest, they were topped by the No. 2 Kansas Jayhawks, 76-60. Kansas’ 0.591 effective field goal percentage was their biggest strength over Syracuse, who had a rate of 0.375. The Jayhawks’ mark was below their season average of 0.628, while the Orange’s was below their season average of 0.491. Tyus Battle led Syracuse in scoring with 22 points on 7-for-20 shooting.
The Huskies barely escaped the Monmouth Hawks in their last game, 84-81. The Huskies forced 15 turnovers and had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (28.2 vs. 21.2). Jalen Adams was the game’s high scorer with 31 points on 13-for-22 shooting.
Half-court execution will be critical when a pair of the nation’s slowest-paced teams face off. Connecticut ranks 316th in possessions per game (66.4) and Syracuse is 281st (67.6) since the 2016-17 season.
The Huskies won the lone contest against the Orange last season, 52-50. Connecticut’s 0.382 effective field goal percentage was its biggest advantage over Syracuse, who had a mark of 0.315.
Syracuse Orange vs. Connecticut Huskies Free Pick
Predictions: SU Winner – Syracuse, ATS Winner – Syracuse, O/U – Over
Notes
Betting Notes (2016-Present):
Syracuse ranks 15th in steals per game (8.3) while Connecticut ranks 280th (4.9).
The Huskies rank 93rd in assists allowed per game (12.2) while the Orange rank 310th (17.0).
Syracuse ranks 121st in three pointers attempted per game (22.4) while Connecticut ranks 268th in three pointers allowed per game (23.4).
The Huskies average 36.9 rebounds per game, which ranks 117th in the NCAA. The Orange rank 169th in rebounds allowed per game (35.1).
Syracuse ranks 26th in blocks per game (5.0) while Connecticut ranks 39th in blocks allowed per game (2.7).
