Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Clippers – As the NBA season heats up, an exciting clash between the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Clippers on January 8, 2024 has generated considerable anticipation from both fans and bettors alike. Both teams boast respectable records – 19-16 for Phoenix and 22-12 for Los Angeles respectively – promising an entertaining matchup featuring key players like Devin Booker of Phoenix Suns and Kawhi Leonard from Los Angeles Clippers; making this game a must-watch viewing for every Canadian sports betting enthusiast.
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Date & Time: Monday, January 8, 2024, at 10:30 PM ET
Location: crypto.com Arena
TV: NBA TV
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Clippers Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Suns | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Clippers | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Phoenix Suns Analysis
The Phoenix Suns’ offensive strategy hinges on efficient scoring and ball movement. Their average of 26 assists per game led by Devin Booker‘s playmaking can highlight their team-oriented approach; however, their over reliance on him for scoring and playmaking could backfire against a defense like that of Los Angeles Clippers which excels at perimeter defense. Furthermore, 3-point shooting needs to become more consistent against teams like them that specialize in perimeter defense.
Defensively, the Suns can improve in several areas of their game – particularly their perimeter defense. They have proven vulnerable against teams that possess potency from outside shooting, such as those found among the Clippers’ shooting arsenal. Their ability to force turnovers (7.1 steals per game averaged) should help disrupt their offensive rhythm; however, turnover issues at 14.2 could prove costly if left unaddressed.
The Suns’ bench depth will play an integral part in this matchup, providing relief and keeping up the tempo when starters rest. Cameron Johnson and Mikal Bridges must step up as scoring and defensive resilience specialists when starters rest; maintaining defensive intensity without fouling is especially crucial against Clippers given their high free-throw shooting efficiency; taking advantage of 43.5 average rebounding per game will limit second chance points from Clippers.
Los Angeles Clippers Analysis
Los Angeles Clippers’ offense is marked by balance and depth, with multiple players capable of scoring double figures. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George’s ability to create their own shots against an Arizona Suns defense that can be exploited both inside and out is essential to winning games against this division. Their proficiency in 3-point shooting–leading the league with 12.7 makes per game–tests Phoenix Suns perimeter defense while their lower turnover rate maximizes scoring opportunities.
Defensively, the Clippers have proven they can successfully disrupt opponents’ offensive flow with their aggressive defense led by Kawhi Leonard’s steals and their ability to switch defense effectively with Marcus Morris and Ivica Zubac switching on effectively against different offensive setups. Unfortunately their tendency for fouls (an average of 20 per game) could become an issue when facing off against Suns teams that excel at free throw shooting; therefore they need to balance aggressive defense with discipline so as to not send too many Suns players down to the free-throw line too often.
Luke Kennard and Reggie Jackson bring scoring and playmaking off their bench to help keep up offensive pressure throughout the game, while their defensive intensity from their bench, particularly around the paint, will limit Suns second-chance points. Finally, controlling pace of play while effectively using bench players could be key in outlasting Suns in close contests.
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Clippers Against the Spread
Recent form for the Suns shows they are 4-1 in their last five games but only 2-3 against the spread, 7-7 on the road, with three totals going OVER in five consecutive matches, suggesting high scoring contests.
The Clippers, on the other hand, have won four out of their past five games and been 3-2 against the spread. At home they have gone OVER in five of 18 matches; signaling high-scoring affairs.
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Clippers Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Clippers. The Clippers’ stronger offensive and defensive balance gives them the edge in this matchup.
Spread: Suns to cover. Given the Suns’ ability to keep games close, they are likely to cover the spread.
Total: OVER. Both teams have shown a tendency towards high-scoring games, making the OVER a sensible pick.
Predicted Score: Los Angeles Clippers 115, Phoenix Suns 112.
Conclusion Despite their odds of victory being slight, the Suns should not be underestimated when it comes to covering the spread. Given both teams’ offensive capabilities, total going OVER may be your best bet for picking an NBA winning pick in this matchup, which promises an exciting battle and will showcase some of the greatest talents currently active in the NBA today.
