The Phoenix Suns and LA Clippers meet Wednesday to open their 2024-25 NBA seasons. Tip-off from Intuit Dome is set for 10 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA odds around the Suns vs. Clippers odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions for the best bets.
Season series: First meeting; LA won 3-1 last season
The Suns finished the 2023-24 season at 49-33, but were swept in the 1st round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves. They hired Mike Budenholzer, a former NBA champion with the Milwaukee Bucks, to improve their defense, which ranked 13th in the league last season. The Suns also added PG Tyus Jones, PG Monte Morris, and C Mason Plumlee to their roster. A key focus this season will be keeping their star trio— SG Bradley Beal, SG Devin Booker, and SF Kevin Durant—healthy.
The Clippers finished 4th in the West at 51-31 last season, but lost to the Dallas Mavericks in the 1st playoff round. Following this disappointment, they made significant changes, parting ways with SF Paul George (who joined the Philadelphia 76ers) and trading PG Russell Westbrook to the New Orleans Jazz for PG Kris Dunn. SG James Harden remains the focal point, while SF Derrick Jones Jr. and C Mo Bamba bolster the frontcourt. SF Kawhi Leonard’s knee injury looms large, as he’ll miss the season’s start.
Suns at Clippers odds
Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NBA odds. Lines last updated at 6:26 a.m. ET.
- Moneyline (ML): Suns -210 (bet $210 to win $100) | Clippers +170 (bet $100 to win $170)
- Against the spread (ATS): Suns -5.5 (-105) | Clippers +5.5 (-115)
- Over/Under (O/U): 224.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)
Suns at Clippers key injuries
Suns
- SG Josh Okogie (hamstring) day-to-day
- SG Grayson Allen (Achilles) day-to-day
Clippers
- SF Kawhi Leonard (knee) out
For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.
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Suns at Clippers picks and predictions
Prediction
Suns 118, Clippers 110
Moneyline
PASS.
The Clippers have many uncertainties, but the Suns’ strengths are well established. I anticipate a comfortable win for the Suns (-210), but I’ll place my bet on them to cover the spread with the better odds.
Against the spread
BET SUNS -5.5 (-105).
The Clippers will be counting on Harden after losing George. Having finished 4th in adjusted offensive efficiency last season (118.8 points per 100 possessions), their offense could take a hit. Phoenix won the last matchup against the Clippers, 124-108 last April, covering the spread in the process. I’m backing the Suns to start their season strong. With a healthy roster and both Beal and Booker eager to showcase their skills, I anticipate notable improvements under Budenholzer.
BET OVER 224.5 (-110).
There’s a strong likelihood of a high-scoring game. The total has gone Over in 4 of their last 5 encounters, and Phoenix finished last season with 4 Overs in their last 5 games while the Clippers hit the Over in their final 3 games. With stars like Durant and Booker leading the way, offensive fireworks are expected.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
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