Denver Nuggets at Phoenix Suns odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Friday’s Denver Nuggets at Phoenix Suns NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Denver Nuggets (7-7) visit the Phoenix Suns (8-5) at their self-titled arena for a 10 p.m. ET tip-off Friday. Below, we analyze the Nuggets-Suns NBA odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Denver has been pretty inconsistent over the past two weeks. The Nuggets have alternated wins and losses in their last five games (3-2 ATS), which includes a 119-101 win as 10-point home favorites Tuesday.

If you’re paying attention to the NBA this season, hopefully, you’ve noticed the legitimacy of All-Star Nuggets C Nikola Jokic’s MVP candidacy through the first month. Jokic is averaging a triple-double with 25.1 points, 11.4 rebounds and 10 assists per game (all Denver team highs).

The Suns acquiring future Hall of Fame PG Chris Paul this offseason has taken Phoenix from a probable postseason play-in tournament contender to a team with a chance at hosting a playoff series in the first round.

Paul is fifth in the NBA in assists per game (8.2) and Paul’s floor general capabilities have helped C Deandre Ayton shoot the 13th-highest field-goal percentage (57.8%) in the league, SF Mikal Bridges get the eighth-best offensive rating (132.4) and SG Devin Booker lead the Suns in scoring (22.2 PPG).

Like Denver, the Suns have been inconsistent recently, going 2-3 straight-up (2-3 ATS) in their previous five games. Phoenix’s 106-103 win in Denver New Year’s Day snapped a five-game losing streak (3-2 ATS) to the Nuggets.

Nuggets at Suns: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:58 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Nuggets +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Suns -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Nuggets +1.5 (-110) | Suns -1.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 219.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Nuggets at Suns: Key Injuries

Nuggets

  • SF Michael Porter Jr. (health and safety protocols) questionable

Suns

  • None that alters gambling lines.

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Nuggets at Suns: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Nuggets 114, Suns 108

Money line (ML)

GIMME NUGGETS (+105) for 1 unit. Even though the Suns have a better record, the Nuggets rank higher in net rating this season and Phoenix’s defense is a little overrated.

While the Suns rank fifth in opponent’s points per game, that’s more of a result of their 28th-ranked pace of play and slowing the tempo down helps Phoenix set up its half-court defense. The Suns are 18th in opponent’s field-goal shooting, 12th in defensive rating and 24th in opponent’s free throw per field-goal attempt rate.

Also, Phoenix is a net negative in rebounds per game whereas Denver is a net positive. Finally, most of the Nuggets stunk it up in their first game against Phoenix and I anticipate a bounce-back performance from several of Denver’s role players.

Against the spread (ATS)

PASS ON THE SPREAD. Denver isn’t getting enough points to validate buying insurance for the Nuggets money line.

Over/Under (O/U)

Against my better judgment, I’ll follow the money and I lean OVER 219.5 (-110) for a quarter-unit. According to Pregame.com, nearly 80% of the money is on the Over, steaming it up from the 218.5-point opener.

Like I said above, my read is that Phoenix’s defense is a tad overrated and we’ll get a better showing out of Denver than the first Nuggets-Suns game.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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Phoenix Suns at Memphis Grizzlies odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Monday’s Phoenix Suns at Memphis Grizzlies NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Phoenix Suns (7-4) finally get to play after three games were postponed. They hit the road to take on the Memphis Grizzlies (6-6). The tip-off is at 5:05 p.m. ET at the FedExForum. Below, we analyze the Suns-Grizzlies NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Suns at Grizzlies: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 10:50 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Suns -190 (bet $190 to win $100) | Grizzlies +155 (bet $100 to win $155)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Suns -4.5 (-115) | Grizzlies +4.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under: 218.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Suns at Grizzlies: Key Injuries

Suns

  • G Cameron Payne (ankle) questionable
  • F Dario Saric (health and safety protocols) out
  • C Damian Jones (health and safety protocols) out
  • F Jalen Smith (health and safety protocols) out

Grizzlies

  • Jaren Jackson Jr. (knee) out
  • Jontay Porter (knee) out
  • Jonas Valanciunas (health and safety protocols) out
  • Justise Winslow (hip) out

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

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Suns at Grizzlies: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Suns 111, Grizzlies 105

Money line (ML)

The Suns lost in embarrassing fashion in their last game to the Washington Wizards, who then had players test positive for COVID-19, leading to three postponements for the Suns as they underwent contact tracing.

Phoenix has not lost consecutive games yet this season. Memphis, though, has won four in a row. The Suns are rested and itching to play after a week off. Take the SUNS (-190).

Against the spread (ATS)

The Suns still have the second-best cover percentage in the NBA at 63.2%. They have covered the spread in every win and, when they do not cover, they lose outright. Memphis is 7-5 ATS and 3-2 ATS as underdogs. They have been playing well but with Phoenix’s time off, I expect them to come out and play even better. Take the SUNS -4.5 (-115).

Over/Under (O/U)

The Suns still allow the sixth-fewest points in the league. Their Over percentage is only 36.4%. Memphis’ games go under in 2 of every 3. While four of the last five for Phoenix have gone Over, the layoff will slow down the pace. Take UNDER 218.5 POINTS (-110). 

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Atlanta Hawks at Phoenix Suns odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Wednesday’s Atlanta Hawks at Phoenix Suns NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Atlanta Hawks (5-5) kick off a three-game road swing against the Phoenix Suns (7-4), who is playing the first of threes straight at home. Tipoff is at 9:05 p.m. ET at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, AZ.

Below, we analyze the Hawks-Suns NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Hawks at Suns: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 7:50 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Hawks +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Suns -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Hawks +5.5 (-115) | Suns -5.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under: 228.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Hawks at Suns: Key Injuries

Hawks

  • Bogdan Bogdanovic (knee) out
  • Clint Capela (hand) questionable
  • Kris Dunn (ankle) out
  • Danilo Gallinari (ankle) out
  • Onyeka Okongwu (foot) probable
  • Rajon Rondo (knee) questionable

Suns

  • Cameron Payne (ankle) doubtful
  • Jalen Smith (health and safety protocols) out

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

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Hawks at Suns: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Suns 115, Hawks 111

Money line (ML)

The Suns have actually lost two straight games in which they have been favored, but the Hawks have lost four of five overall. Phoenix is 3-1 at home this season, and Atlanta is missing several key players against a nearly healthy Suns squad. Take the SUNS -200.

Against the spread (ATS)

The Suns have been consistent in their performance against the spread. It mirrors their regular record. If they win the game, they cover. If they lose, they do not. This will be the first time in six games that the Hawks are not favored. They have covered the spread this year each time they have been the underdog. The Suns have lost and failed to cover the last two games in which they have been favored. Take the HAWKS +5.5 (-115)

Over/Under (O/U)

This total dropped quite a bit, but it’s still pretty risky. The Suns’ games have gone Over in four of five and the fifth game was one point short of a push. Atlanta’s games have gone Under in each of their last six games and in all but two this season. Neither they nor their opponents have scored more than 114 points in that six-game stretch. Take UNDER 228.5 POINTS (-105).

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Phoenix Suns at Detroit Pistons odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Friday’s Phoenix Suns at Detroit Pistons NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Phoenix Suns (6-2) kick off a three-game road trip Friday night against the Detroit Pistons (1-7). They tip off at 7:05 p.m. ET at Little Caesars Arena. Below, we analyze the Suns-Pistons NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Suns at Pistons: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 9:45 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Suns -350 (bet $350 to win $100) | Pistons +260 (bet $100 to win $260)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Suns -7.5 (-110) | Pistons +7.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 216.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Suns at Pistons: Key Injuries

Suns

  • Jalen Smith (health and safety protocols) out

Pistons

  • Killian Hayes (hip) out
  • Josh Jackson (ankle) probable
  • Derrick Rose (knee) probable

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

Place a $1 bet on either team’s money line, WIN an additional $100 (in free bets) if either team hits a 3-pointer during the game today. Promotion available in CO, IN, NJ, TN and WV. IA and PA residents, don’t miss BetMGM‘s risk-free, first-bet offer! MI residents, BetMGM is coming to your state soon — register early for special promotion.

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Suns at Pistons: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Suns 115, Pistons 104

Money line (ML)

The Suns are the No.1 team in the Western Conference and, including their eight games in the bubble last year, have won 14 of their last 16. The Pistons have the worst record in the NBA and have lost three in a row. Previous Suns teams would probably lose this game but they have been good about taking care of business.

Take the SUNS (-350).

Against the spread (ATS)

The Suns are tied with the league’s best record against the spread at 6-2 and have been covering the spread by an average of 7.2 points per game, the second-highest average in the league. They failed to cover in only one game in which they were favored (4-1).

Detroit is 4-4 ATS but beats the spread by only 0.2 points per game. They give up a lot of points and have the fifth-worst scoring defense in the league, at 119.1 points allowed per game, while the Suns have the league’s No. 1 scoring defense.

Take the SUNS -7.5 (-110).

Over/Under (O/U)

The Suns have the second-lowest Over percentage in the league at 25% but the total went Over in their last two games. The last three games for the Pistons have gone Over and so have five of their seven games. That is usually the result of their opponents.

Phoenix will score a lot and allow near their average but that will be enough to go OVER 216.5 (-115).

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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Toronto Raptors at Phoenix Suns odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Wednesday’s Toronto Raptors at Phoenix Suns NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Phoenix Suns (5-2) host the Toronto Raptors (1-5) at PHX Arena Wednesday. Tip-off for the cross-conference affair will be at 9 p.m. ET. Below, we analyze the Raptors-Suns NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

The Raps come into the desert off of back-to-back losses to the New Orleans Pelicans (120-116) and Boston Celtics (126-114) and a one-day rest. The Suns suffered a 112-107 loss at home against the Los Angeles Clippers Sunday following a four-game win streak.

Toronto won the head-to-head series 2-0 in 2019-20, winning games by 17 and 7 points.

Raptors at Suns: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:15 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Raptors +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Suns -160 (bet $160 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Raptors +3.5 (-110) | Suns -3.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 218.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Raptors at Suns: Key Injuries

None affecting the betting lines.

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

Place a $1 bet on either team’s money line, WIN an additional $100 (in free bets) if either team hits a 3-pointer during the game today. Promotion available in CO, IN, NJ, TN and WV. IA and PA residents, don’t miss BetMGM‘s risk-free, first-bet offer! MI residents, BetMGM is coming to your state soon — register early for special promotion.

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Raptors at Suns: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Suns 115, Raptors 98

Money line (ML)

The SUNS (-160) offer plenty of value for a money line bet following Sunday’s narrow loss to a much better opponent than the one they’re facing Wednesday. Their four-game win streak included impressive road victories over the Utah Jazz (106-95) and Denver Nuggets (106-103). They beat the Dallas Mavericks 106-102 in their season-opener.

The Raptors appeared to get-right with a 100-83 win over the New York Knicks after losing their first three games of the season but back-to-back losses have sent them in the wrong direction once again. Gs Kyle Lowry and Fred VanVleet lead the team with 18.7 points per game and 21.8 PPG, respectively, but they’ll have their hands full on the defensive end with the Suns’ backcourt tandem of Chris Paul and Devin Booker. They’ll struggle on the offensive end as a result.

Suns C DeAndre Ayton is in store for a big game against the Raps’ frontcourt, and should easily top season averages of 13.7 PPG and 10.7 rebounds per game.

Against the spread (ATS)

The stronger play is to take the SUNS -3.5 (-110) to win by at least 4 points. Phoenix is 5-2 against the spread and wins by 7.3 PPG. Toronto is just 1-5 ATS and falls an average of 7.6 PPG below a cover.

Over/Under (O/U)

Take the UNDER 218.5 (-105). The Suns rank fourth in defensive efficiency with just 102.4 points allowed per 100 opponent possessions while the Raps are tied for 28th in offensive efficiency.

Toronto is fifth in pace (possessions per game) but Phoenix operates at the slowest pace of all teams (98.2 possessions per game) and will be able to dictate the tempo.

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Los Angeles Clippers at Phoenix Suns odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Sunday’s Los Angeles Clippers at Phoenix Suns NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Los Angeles Clippers (4-2) head to the Valley of the Sun Sunday to play the Phoenix Suns (5-1) at 8 p.m. ET. Below, we analyze the Clippers-Suns NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Clippers at Suns: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:10 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Clippers -160 (bet $160 to win $100) | Suns +135 (bet $100 to win $135)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Clippers -3.5 (-110) | Suns +3.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 215.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Clippers at Suns: Key Injuries

Clippers

  • F Marcus Morris (knee) out

Suns

  • F Abdel Nader (concussion protocol) out
  • F/C Jalen Smith (ankle) out

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

Place a $1 bet on either team’s money line, WIN an additional $100 (in free bets) if either team hits a 3-pointer during the game today. Promotion available in CO, IN, NJ, TN and WV. PA residents, don’t miss BetMGM‘s risk-free, first-bet offer! MI residents, BetMGM is coming to your state soon — register early for special promotion.

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Clippers at Suns: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Clippers 111, Suns 101

Money line (ML)

PASS, although I won’t rule out a money line parlay with the Clippers (-160) paired with another similarly priced favorite. Also, a -160 money line is right around my cutoff for how much I am willing to risk on a favorite in a regular-season game.

Against the spread (ATS)

The Clippers had a two-game winning streak stopped in Utah with a 106-100 loss to the Jazz as 3.5-point favorites New Year’s Day. Los Angeles struggled to get easy shots as the Clippers only had 19 assists (they average 24.7 assists per game) and had 16 fewer points in the paint than the Jazz (46-30), which contributed to Los Angeles’ 38.8% shooting performance on the night.

Phoenix is kind of rolling along here as its only slip up came in the second game of the season (a 106-103 road loss to the Sacramento Kings) and have won four straight (4-0 ATS). The Suns went into Mile High City and upset the Denver Nuggets as 3.5-point road ‘dogs in their last outing. It was a gritty Phoenix win with the Suns being outrebounded, having fewer points in the paint and fast-break points, and more turnovers.

The Suns split last season’s series vs. the Clippers (2-2 ATS), including a 117-115 win as an 8.5-point underdogs against a fully healthy Clippers team in their last game in the Orlando Bubble.

This is a rare spot where I’ll follow the market, which has steamed Clippers up from 1.5-point favorites to their current price. Take CLIPPERS -3.5 (-110) for 1 unit.

Phoenix has looked awesome to start the season, but it isn’t sneaking up on anyone with the addition of likely future Hall of Famer PG Chris Paul. I’m willing to lay the 3.5 points with a better Clippers team.

Over/Under (O/U)

PASS, but I have a slight lean on UNDER 215.5 (-110) because both are strong defensive teams and Phoenix is off to an 0-6 O/U start to the season. However, it’s only a lean since we are getting to the party a little late; the total has been bet down from a 217.5-point opener.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Hoops Hype:

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Phoenix Suns at Denver Nuggets odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Friday’s Phoenix Suns at Denver Nuggets NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Phoenix Suns (4-1) take a three-game winning streak into the new year and take on the Denver Nuggets (1-3) on the road. Tip-off is Friday night at 9:05 p.m. ET at the Ball Arena in Denver. Below, we analyze the Suns-Nuggets NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Suns at Nuggets: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 1:50 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Suns +155 (bet $100 to win $155) | Nuggets  -190 (bet $190 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Suns +4.5 (-110) | Nuggets -4.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 222.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Suns at Nuggets: Key Injuries

Suns

  • PF Jalen Smith (ankle) out

Nuggets

  • PG Jamal Murray (elbow) probable
  • PF JaMychal Green (calf) questionable
  • PF Michael Porter Jr. (COVID) out

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

Place a $1 bet on either team’s money line, WIN an additional $100 (in free bets) if either team hits a 3-pointer during the game today. Promotion available in CO, IN, NJ, TN and WV. PA residents, don’t miss BetMGM‘s risk-free, first-bet offer! MI residents, BetMGM is coming to your state soon — register early for special promotion.

Place your legal, online sports bets at BetMGM! Terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Suns at Nuggets: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Suns 115, Nuggets 105

Money line (ML)

The Suns are rolling right now, having won three in a row and playing very good basketball, especially on defense. And they are doing it without much help from C Deandre Ayton.

They are allowing the fewest points per game in the league and have the league’s third-best point differential. Denver gives up 120.3 points per game. Take the SUNS (+155).

Against the spread (ATS)

The Suns are 4-1 ATS, covering in all four wins and failing to cover in their one loss, in which they were favored. They are underdogs for the second night in a row and won outright in their last game as road ‘dogs. The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in any of their losses so far this season. Take the SUNS +4.5 (-110).

Over/Under (O/U)

We get to see which team’s pace rules. All of Phoenix’s games have gone Under. All of Denver’s have gone Over. The Suns have not allowed more than 106 in any game and have not allowed more than 100 in their last three games. Take UNDER 222.5 POINTS (-110). 

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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Hoops Hype:

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Phoenix Suns at Utah Jazz odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Thursday’s Phoenix Suns at Utah Jazz NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Utah Jazz (2-1) hope to ring in the new year with a home win over the Phoenix Suns (3-1). Tip-off is Thursday night at 9:05 p.m. ET at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake. Below, we analyze the Suns at Jazz NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Suns at Jazz: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 3:05 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Suns +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Jazz -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Suns +3.5 (-105) | Jazz -3.5 (-115)
  • Over/Under: 220.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Suns at Jazz: Key Injuries

Suns

  • SF Abdel Nader (concussion) out
  • PF Jalen Smith (ankle) out

Jazz

  • PF Derrick Favors (knee) probable

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

Place a $1 bet on either team’s money line, WIN an additional $100 (in free bets) if either team hits a 3-pointer during the game today. Promotion available in CO, IN, NJ, TN and WV. PA residents, don’t miss BetMGM‘s risk-free, first-bet offer! MI residents, BetMGM is coming to your state soon — register early for special promotion.

Place your legal, online sports bets at BetMGM! Terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Suns at Jazz: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Suns 109, Jazz 99

Money line (ML)

The Jazz have absolutely dominated this series. While the Suns picked up a win in February, Utah has beaten them in 15 of the last 17 matchups. The last game was in Utah, though.

Phoenix is allowing the fewest points in the league so far this season and have really played fantastically for the last game and a half. The Jazz lost their home opener and will struggle against a healthy Suns squad. This is the first time all season Phoenix are underdogs. Take the SUNS (+145).

Against the spread (ATS)

The Suns are 3-1 ATS, covering the spread in all three of their victories and losing when they were favored once. The Jazz are 1-2 ATS so far. Both are in the top-10 in point differential. Phoenix is No. 3 and the Jazz are No. 9. Look for a fun matchup between Utah’s Donovan Mitchell and the Suns’ Devin Booker. Take the SUNS +3.5 (-105). 

Over/Under (O/U)

The Suns allow the fewest points in the league, giving up only 98.5 points per game, and the Jazz allow 108.3 PPG. Between the two teams, in seven games this season, only one game has gone Over. All four of the Suns’ games this season have gone Under. Take UNDER 219.5 POINTS (-110).

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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Hoops Hype:

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New Orleans Pelicans at Phoenix Suns odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Tuesday’s New Orleans Pelicans at Phoenix Suns NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The New Orleans Pelicans (2-1) play the Phoenix Suns (2-1) Tuesday at PHX Arena at 10 p.m. ET. Below, we analyze the Pelicans-Suns NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Pelicans at Suns: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:30 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Pelicans +215 (bet $100 to win $215) | Suns -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Pelicans +2.5 (-110) | Suns -2.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 221.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Pelicans at Suns: Key Injuries

Pelicans

  • No one that alters the gambling lines

Suns

  • No one that alters the gambling lines

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

Place a $1 bet on either team’s money line, WIN an additional $100 (in free bets) if either team hits a 3-pointer during the game today. Promotion available in CO, IN, NJ, TN and WV.

PA residents, don’t miss BetMGM’s risk-free, first-bet offer! MI residents, BetMGM is coming to your state soon – register early for special promotion. Place your legal, online sports bets at BetMGM! Terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Pelicans at Suns: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Pelicans 116, Suns 111

Money line (ML)

We’re only three games into the NBA season but it’s astounding that Pelicans-Suns is a meeting between the first- and second-best scoring defenses in the NBA.

I do think New Orleans defense is more legitimate at this juncture since they held the San Antonio Spurs below 100 points and gave them their first loss of the season, played the 2019-20 Eastern Conference champion Miami Heat Sunday (111-98 loss) and held the Toronto Raptors to fewer than 100 points Dec. 23.

The Suns played the Sacramento Kings in back-to-back games coming into Tuesday (the Kings were 22nd last season in points per game) and held them to a total of 206 points. They held a Dallas Mavericks team which was No. 1 in offensive rating last season to just 102 points in their first game of the year.

My reasons for having more faith in the Pelicans defense is because starting PG Lonzo Ball is a top defensive guard, who’s ascending whereas Suns PG Chris Paul is 35. New Orleans’ offseason acquisition of elite defensive C Steven Adams is already paying dividends, as well.

Also, there’s a very legitimate argument about who’s the best player in this game between Pelicans SF Brandon Ingram and Suns SG Devin Booker. My preference is Ingram because outside of the top stars of the NBA, no one has Ingram’s offensive versatility. Furthermore, I give Pelicans SG Eric Bledsoe a much better chance of disrupting Booker than Suns SF Mikal Bridges vs. Ingram.

Let’s SPRINKLE on PELICANS (+115) for a quarter-unit with the plan of hitting the spread harder.

Against the spread (ATS)

The bulk of my handicap sits above this section but I have one more little factor to consider: Pelicans-Suns is a Pros vs. Joes spot. According to Pregame.com, 68% of the money is on the Pelicans while 57% of the bets placed are with the Suns.

Generally, the money column is the sharp side and the tickets/bets column is the public money. Let’s follow the money and TAKE PELICANS +2.5 (-110) for 1.5 units before this ticks down even more.

Over/Under (O/U)

Like the ATS market in Pelicans-Suns, this is a Pros vs. Joes situation with the money coming in on the Under but more bets on the Over. I’m torn so I’ll PASS with a slight lean on the Over 221.5 (-110).

I know I just talked about following the money but my feeling is we see some awesome offense between these two organizations that are seemingly getting their ducks in a row.

I doubt the Pelicans’ and Suns’ defensive efficiency will stay as well-rated throughout the season, so I am fine with just playing the Pelicans side and laying off the total.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Hoops Hype: 

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Phoenix Suns at Sacramento Kings odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Saturday’s Phoenix Suns at Sacramento Kings NBA betting odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

The Phoenix Suns (1-0) visit the Sacramento Kings (1-0) Saturday for a Pacific Division game in the Golden 1 Center at 10 p.m. ET. Below, we analyze the Suns-Kings NBA betting odds and lines, with picks and predictions.

Suns at Kings: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:39 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Suns -160 (bet $160 to win $100) | Kings +135 (bet $100 to win $135)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Suns -2.5 (-115) | Kings +2.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under: 226.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Suns at Kings: Key Injuries

Suns

  • SF Abdel Nader (concussion protocol) out
  • PF Dario Saric (quadriceps) out

Kings

  • SG DaQuan Jeffries (back) doubtful
  • PF Jabari Parker (back) questionable

Special NBA Betting Promotion!

Place a $1 bet on either team’s money line, WIN an additional $100 (in free bets) if either team hits a 3-pointer during the game today. Promotion available in CO, IN, NJ, TN and WV.

PA residents, don’t miss BetMGM’s risk-free, first-bet offer! MI residents, BetMGM is coming to your state soon – register early for special promotion. Place your legal, online sports bets at BetMGM! Terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Suns at Kings: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Kings 115, Suns 110

Money line (ML)

Phoenix opened its season with an impressive 106-102 home win as a 1-point favorite against the Dallas Mavericks Wednesday. It was PG Chris Paul’s Suns debut, and CP3 only had 8 points and 5 assists, but SG Devin Booker picked up right where he left off last season, leading the Suns with 22 points on 8-of-15 shooting.

The Kings upset the host Denver Nuggets 124-122 in overtime on SG Buddy Hield’s tip-in as time expired Wednesday – Sacramento was a 7.5-point underdog. Three Kings starters scored 20-plus points, including Hield, PG De’Aaron Fox and SF Harrison Barnes.

They two teams split last season’s head-to-head series 2-2, including 2-2 ATS, with Booker scoring at least 30 points in three of those games. These sides are pretty evenly matched in their positional head-to-heads and I “lean” KINGS (+135) because the Suns haven’t proven anything yet and shouldn’t be a road favorite vs. a team with similar talent.

Against the spread (ATS)

As far as the spread is concerned, this is shaping up to be a Pros vs. Joes situation with the betting market. 53% of the money wagered is on the Kings, but 76% of the total bets placed are laying the points with the Suns, according to Pregame.com. This has caused the line to move from a pick ’em to Phoenix being favored.

Presumably, the sharp side is the money column and if it goes against the percentage of bets made, then it’s typically wise to follow the money. Also, it’s generally a good idea to get insurance when you can and the first Suns-Kings game last season was decided by just two points.

Over/Under (O/U)

PASS. Like in the ATS section, there is split action on both the Over and the Under. I don’t have a good feel for the total, so I’d rather not waste anyone’s money making a complete guess.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Hoops Hype: 

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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