Suns to Burn Incoming Grizzlies

Ja Morant and Devin Booker are in action, so it should be a high-quality NBA game.

• Game: Memphis Grizzlies (20-14) at Phoenix Suns (26-6)
  
• Location: Footprint Center
  
• Day/Time: Monday, 9 p.m. ET

Memphis Grizzlies at Phoenix Suns

Grizzlies Covering Spreads

The Memphis Grizzlies lost three consecutive games before Christmas, but they delivered the goods against the Sacramento Kings on Sunday.

It was a much-needed win for the Grizzlies, who scored a 127-102 victory. Morant had 18 points on 8-of-18 shooting and Jaren Jackson Jr. had 21 points. Jackson will need to produce another top effort to keep up with the Suns, who have the third-best offense in the NBA.

Memphis has done well to post a 20-14 record and it has an identical record against the spread. Bettors have had a successful time backing the Grizzlies, who often pay generous odds at the sportsbook.

The offense ranks sixth-best in the NBA, which is a solid number. They put up a lot of shots and they’re third in rebounding, so second-chance shots are key to their success.

The Grizzlies rank outside the top 18 in points allowed, field goal percentage and three-point percentage, so the defense needs to step up. It’s the one area where they struggle and when you’re about to face a top offense, it could spark some trouble.

In the first meeting against the Suns, Memphis struggled offensively in a 119-94 defeat. With the current points spread at +8½, it will need to bridge the gap.

Suns Ready to Shine

Christmas Day wasn’t what the Phoenix Suns or bettors expected. They suffered a 116-107 loss as the -6 favorite against the Golden State Warriors, which ended a five-game winning streak.

It was just the second spread loss in their last six games, so bettors haven’t been used to the Suns not covering spreads, let alone losing games outright.

Despite leading at halftime, the Suns couldn’t find anything in the fourth quarter. Phoenix coach Monty Williams said the Warriors played with more energy, which is not typical for his team.

“They created those breaks. They played harder than us,” Williams told ESPN. “It’s rare when I say that about our team. They outworked us more consistently for 50-50 balls, timely offensive rebounds, diving out of bounds to save balls.”

Betting online markets are giving Phoenix ultimate respect against the Grizzlies. The Suns have covered the last three lines where they are seven- to eight-point favorites, so that bodes well.

Suns to Repeat the Dose

We love backing teams that have already scored a win against the same opposition. The 119-94 win in their first meeting is the best form guide and it came on the road for the Suns.

Getting back home is ideal, and although the Grizzlies come off a win, the Suns have an extra day of rest at their disposal.

We don’t think the Grizzlies have enough defense to limit the Suns to under 110 points, which should be enough to see them cover the -8½ spread.

Booker, Deandre Ayton and Chris Paul should have a field day with wide-open buckets. Even though we love Morant and what he has achieved, it’s a team sport and the Suns have by far the better and more consistent lineup.

Pick: Phoenix Suns -8½