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Oklahoma City (30-5) at Phoenix (20-14)
- When: Jan 4 2026, 8:00 PM
- Where: Mortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- TV: FDSOK
Oklahoma City vs Phoenix Preview & Prediction
Spread: Oklahoma City -9.5
Moneyline: Oklahoma City (-400)
Total: 229.5
Phoenix Suns Betting Breakdown
Phoenix does not need extra motivation for this one. The last meeting with Oklahoma City turned into a historic embarrassment, and that memory still lingers. Since then, the Suns have stabilized, winning five of their last six and showing better defensive energy with active hands and rim protection.
Devin Booker remains the tone setter, especially at home, where Phoenix plays with more pace and confidence. The supporting cast has stepped up as well, spreading scoring responsibility and forcing defenses to pick their poison. Three point shooting has been a strength lately, and ball movement has improved noticeably.
That said, Oklahoma City has exposed Phoenix defensively in multiple matchups. The Suns can score, but containing elite guard play and defending the perimeter for 48 minutes has been inconsistent. To stay within striking distance, Phoenix must slow tempo early and avoid falling into an up and down track meet.
Suns Player Prop Pick: Devin Booker over 23.5 points – Booker’s usage spikes in revenge spots and home matchups where Phoenix leans on him to set the offensive tone.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Breakdown
Oklahoma City has shown why it sits near the top of the NBA food chain. When locked in, the Thunder overwhelm opponents with efficiency, depth, and relentless pressure. They have already dominated Phoenix twice this season, including a blowout that got out of hand quickly.
Shai Gilgeous Alexander continues to operate at an MVP level, controlling pace and picking apart defenses that overcommit. Chet Holmgren’s presence changes everything defensively, erasing mistakes and anchoring the paint while still stretching the floor offensively.
The Thunder have been inconsistent against weaker competition, but when facing teams they respect, the focus sharpens. This matchup fits that category. Oklahoma City’s ability to score in bunches and turn defense into offense makes them dangerous when favored by margin.
Thunder Player Prop Pick: Shai Gilgeous Alexander over 31.5 points – In high profile matchups, Oklahoma City puts the ball in his hands and lets him dictate outcomes.
NBA Final Score & Expert Prediction
Phoenix should compete better than it did in the prior blowout, but Oklahoma City’s balance and defensive versatility still give them the upper hand. If the Thunder establish tempo early, they can separate late even if the Suns shoot well.
This profiles as a high scoring game with Oklahoma City pulling away in the second half.
Final Score: Thunder 121, Suns 110
Lean: Oklahoma City -9.5
Total: Over 229.5
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
