Experts Pick Three Bets for Suns-Lakers
PHOENIX -- The Phoenix Suns are just hours away from hosting the Los Angeles Lakers in what will be the team's first ever NBA in-season tournament game.
After starting the season with a 4-4 record, the Suns hope to get their group stage play off on the right foot despite not having Devin Booker (calf strain) at their disposal.
Here's three bets those around the web are taking:
Action Network: Lakers Team Total Under 109.5
Joe Dellera: "When these teams previously faced off, the offenses struggled to get anything going and the Lakers won 100-95. Both of these teams play at a slower pace this season, with the Lakers at 24th (99.2) and the Suns at 21st (99.7).
"The Lakers have struggled mightily to generate consistent offense, especially without James on the floor, so it's tough to back them in this spot. While I lean toward the under on the entire game, I'm going to focus on the Lakers specifically because the Suns' offense still has potency with Durant, Beal and Jusef Nurkic.
"Given the game total of 222.5 and a spread of 4, I'm expecting the Lakers Team Total to be set around 109.5. They have only scored 110 or more points in two games this season, both of which went into overtime. I'll fade the Lakers' offense against a Suns' defense that has been surprisingly strong (Adjusted Defensive Rating 110.2 – 8th) in a slow-paced contest."
Covers.com: D'Angelo Russell Over 16.5 Points
Tom Oldfield: "Enter D’Angelo Russell, who may not be the answer for the Lakers but seems to play as if he believes he is. When it comes to his points prop against the Suns, that’s all you can ask for.
"Kidding aside, Russell has been productive for L.A. this year, averaging 17.9 points a game and papering over a slow start from Austin Reaves. DLo is coming off a 22-point night against the Rockets on 9-for-18 shooting despite only playing 28 minutes in the blowout loss.
"Russell is never shy about getting up shots either. He’s had 17 or more field goal attempts in three of his past four outings, and he’s shot 50% or better in four of his last five games.
"With those kinds of opportunities, the Over on his points prop feels well within reach, and he’s had 17 or more points four times this season. The Suns’ perimeter defense is far from elite, and I see Russell taking advantage tonight."
Gambling.com: Suns -3.5
Admir Aljic: "For our NBA Picks Today, it's important to note the Suns' performance. Despite Devin Booker's absence, the Suns have maintained a +2.7 Point Differential and a positive Adjusted Net Rating of +2.1. They've shown resilience and depth, which could be crucial against a Lakers team struggling with injuries and consistency.
"Looking at the Lakers vs. Suns ATS Pick, the Suns have a historical edge, being 7-3 SU and ATS in their last ten meetings with the Lakers. The Lakers' road record this season (0-5 SU and 1-4 ATS) further tilts the scales in favor of Phoenix. The Suns' ability to rebound effectively, even without Booker, could be a decisive factor, especially if Davis is absent for the Lakers. All these factors contribute to a strong NBA Prediction that the Suns will cover their -3.5 point spread in this matchup."
