NBA Handicapping Predictions – Clippers vs Suns
The Phoenix Suns started the season slowly, but they have played much better down the stretch. Phoenix currently sits in a tie with Houston for the eighth spot in the Western Conference playoff standings.
NBA Basketball Matchup: Los Angeles Clippers vs. Phoenix Suns
10:30 PM EST on TNT
NBA Gambling Odds from BetOnline
NBA Betting Favorite: Suns -3
Over/Under: 197
All five of the Suns remaining games are against teams with a winning record.
The Clippers went through a very tough stretch in the middle of the season, but they are starting to look like a dangerous team once again. This nightcap on TNT will have a playoff atmosphere to it.
The Clippers are 12-2 in their last 14 games. The streak started soon after everyone thought Vinny Del Negro’s days as head coach were numbered. Chris Paul has picked up his level of play, and the team is following his lead right now. Nick Young’s versatility has been a big help over the last few weeks.
Mo Williams return to the lineup gives the team another outside shooter. Blake Griffin is averaging 20.6 points and 10.9 rebounds per game. Twice in the past week the Clippers have beat the Oklahoma City Thunder. This is a team that is gaining a lot of confidence right now. [soliloquy id=”82219″]
They might not be a favorite in the difficult Western Conference, but I don’t think many teams will want to play them.
Phoenix has won seven of their last ten games. The Suns offense is firing on all cylinders right now.
Phoenix has scored 107 points or more in six of their last nine games. Marcin Gortat is having a breakout season at the center spot. Gortat averages 15.8 points and 9.8 boards per contest. Steve Nash has taken less shots this year, but he is still a terrific and efficient point guard. Nash is shooting a remarkable 53.5% from the floor, and he averages 10.9 assists per game.
Shannon Brown has improved a lot as the season has moved along, and Michael Redd has been a nice pickup for the Suns.
The Clippers should own the boards in this game, and I think they’ll keep their red hot streak going with a close win here.
Prediction: Los Angeles 101 Phoenix 99
