LA Clippers (26-19) at Phoenix (23-21)
- When: Jan 27 2025, 9:30 PM
- Where: Footprint Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- TV: NBA TV
Game Preview
The Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Clippers are both heating up as they prepare to clash on Monday night in Phoenix. The Clippers enter as narrow 2.5-point favorites, with the total set at 224.5, making this matchup a fascinating one for bettors. Let’s dive into the key storylines, betting angles, and potential props to consider.
Phoenix Suns Analysis
The Suns have been red-hot, winning seven of their last nine games despite off-court drama. Former starting center Jusuf Nurkic hasn’t seen the floor in nine straight contests due to reported tension with head coach Mike Budenholzer. During his absence, Phoenix has thrived, thanks in part to their acquisition of Nick Richards, who has made an immediate impact. Richards has already recorded two double-doubles in four games, including a monster 20-point, 19-rebound performance in a win over Washington.
Offensively, Phoenix is powered by Kevin Durant (27.2 PPG) and Devin Booker (25.5 PPG). While their star duo is capable of putting up big numbers, their supporting cast, led by Richards and role players like Eric Gordon, will need to step up against the Clippers’ elite defense.
Prop to Watch: Nick Richards Over 10.5 Rebounds
Richards has been a rebounding machine since joining the Suns, and he’ll be tasked with cleaning the glass against a Clippers team that ranks 10th in rebounding.
LA Clippers Analysis
The Clippers are on a roll, winning six of their last eight games and coming off a strong 127-117 win over the Milwaukee Bucks. James Harden delivered a vintage performance, dropping 40 points, while Norman Powell continued his breakout season with 33 points. Powell has thrived as a starter, averaging a career-high 23.9 points per game.
Defensively, the Clippers are among the league’s best, allowing just 106.8 points per game. They also demonstrated impressive ball control in their last outing, committing only seven turnovers. With their ability to lock down opponents and their offense firing on all cylinders, the Clippers are in a strong position to cover the spread.
Prop to Watch: James Harden Over 25.5 Points
Harden is coming off a 40-point explosion and will look to stay aggressive against a Suns defense that can be vulnerable to star guards.
Key Matchups & Betting Trends
Head-to-Head: Phoenix won both meetings in Los Angeles earlier this season by a combined nine points, but the Clippers have improved significantly since those games.
Offense vs. Defense: The Suns rely on high-scoring performances from Durant and Booker, while the Clippers boast the league’s third-best defense, which could disrupt Phoenix’s rhythm.
Turnovers: The Clippers have cleaned up their ball-handling recently, and if they can limit mistakes again, they’ll have a strong chance to win and cover.
Betting Predictions
This matchup is a clash of styles, with the Suns’ offensive firepower facing off against the Clippers’ defensive discipline. Phoenix has been hot at home, but the Clippers’ ability to limit turnovers and their deep roster give them the edge. The total of 224.5 could also come into play, as both teams are capable of explosive scoring.
Best Bets:
Clippers -2.5 (Their defense and momentum make them the better pick.)
Over 224.5 (Both teams have shown the ability to light up the scoreboard, and Phoenix’s defensive lapses could allow for a higher total.)
Player Props:
Nick Richards Over 9.5 Rebounds (Phoenix will rely on him to dominate the boards.)
James Harden Over 21.5 Points (Harden looks locked in offensively.)
Final Score Prediction: Clippers 118, Suns 112
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
