ARIZ @ AUB

Kharchenkov drives Arizona’s production

Ivan Kharchenkov is averaging 24.7 points, 9.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists through three games. He leads Arizona in all three categories, making his production central to the matchup.

Arizona’s three-point profile is concerning

Arizona has made only 27.5% of its threes while allowing opponents to shoot 38.0% from beyond the arc. Auburn is reported to be shooting 40% from three, creating a potential perimeter advantage for the Tigers.

Godfrey’s status leaves lineup uncertainty

RJ Godfrey’s situation remains in limbo. Arizona has not made final long-term decisions on its starting lineup, adding uncertainty to the Wildcats’ rotation for this matchup.

Auburn’s defense faces its strongest test

Auburn has allowed 56.0 points per game across its first two contests. Arizona averages 89.7 points per game, so the Tigers’ early defensive results face a significantly tougher challenge.

Pick Ideas

Angles drawn from the matchup analysis above and refreshed as the news changes. They are a separate read from the LineCrush pick for this matchup, so the two can land on different sides.

Under 159.5 points

Consider the under at 159.5 or higher because one model projects 158 total points. Arizona’s 27.5% three-point shooting and Auburn’s 56.0 points allowed per game provide additional context for a number in that range.

Tahaad Pettiford 20+ points

If a 20-point alternate line is available at a reasonable price, consider Tahaad Pettiford 20-plus points. He is averaging 22 points per game and scored 26 in Auburn’s most recent win, while Auburn’s reported 40% three-point shooting supports its offensive profile.

Auburn +2.5

Auburn is worth a look at +2.5 in Neville Arena while pursuing a 70th consecutive nonconference home win. The Tigers’ 40% three-point shooting and Arizona’s 27.5% mark from deep support a modest home-team lean, though the streak does not guarantee a cover.