Gameday: Phoenix Suns Take on Toronto Raptors
In this story:
Who: Toronto Raptors at Phoenix Suns
When: Monday, Jan. 30 at 7 PM MST
Where: Footprint Center, Phoenix, AZ
Spread: Suns -1.5
The Phoenix Suns face off against the Toronto Raptors tonight at 7 PM MST in a game that not only affects the standings but could also dictate the trajectory these two teams take during the NBA trade deadline.
After suffering a loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday, the Suns bounced back in an emotional 128-118 overtime thriller against the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night. The game was headlined by Chris Paul’s impressive 31 points, seven rebounds and 11 assists.
Phoenix has been on fire lately as they have won five out of their last six games and seem to finally be clicking with the return of Paul and Cameron Johnson from injury. They rank in the league's top five in terms of defensive points allowed per game with 111.6.
Similar to the Suns this season, the Raptors have not been able to string together consistent basketball. They currently sit as the twelfth seed with a below average record of 23-28 but have won their last three-of-four games.
They'll look to sweep the season series with Phoenix after previously defeating the Suns 113-104 back on Dec. 30.
Devin Booker (groin), Landry Shamet (foot), Cameron Payne (foot) are listed as OUT while Josh Okogie (nose) is AVAILABLE.
The Raptors are currently led by Pascal Siakam, who is averaging 25.1 points per night with 8.1 rebounds and 6.4 assists.
With rumors Toronto may be willing to trade key players such as Fred VanVleet and OG Anunoby depending on how the team performs. Anunoby is tied with Jimmy Butler for the league-lead in steals per night with 2.1 but will not play tonight due to a wrist injury.
All eyes are on the Raptors to see if they will decide to sell or buy at the Feb. 9 trade deadline, but Phoenix is also in a strange situation. VanVleet has been linked to the Suns as a potential target so it will be interesting to see him play at the Footprint Center tonight since it could be a place he calls home, should be traded to Phoenix.
According to SI Sportsbook, the Suns are the -125 favorites going into this matchup. This should be a favorable bet due to the way Phoenix has been playing as of late and the fact that they are playing at home. ESPN's basketball power index gives the Suns a 54.8% chance to win.
