Few things look capable of extinguishing the Phoenix Suns, who now ride a six game winning streak into Grind City.
Most recently, the Valley Boys took down Damian Lillard and the Portland Trail Blazers. Frank Kaminsky delivered once again with career-game, filling the void left behind by Deandre Ayton better than anyone ever could have expected.
It might not be “Dame time” anymore, but tonight, the Suns once again matchup against a fearsome point guard. Currently averaging 26.5 points, 7.3 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game, Ja Morant looks like an absolute killer. He seems to have already moved on from the “talented young player” stage in his career, and stepped into “bonafide superstar” territory.
But the Suns look their best right now, even beginning to resemble the well-oiled team that ran all the way to the NBA Finals last year. This bout carries box-office potential if both Morant and the Suns bring their A-games, so make sure to tune in.
Phoenix Suns vs Memphis Grizzlies Odds, Spread, Over/Under Tonight
According to WynnBet, the Suns enter this contest favored at -1.0 points. Their moneyline odds sit at -115, and the over/under is at 222.0 points.
Expected to win but only by the slimmest of margins, the Suns stack up quite evenly with the Grizzlies, likely getting the nod only due to their impressive win streak.
With a matchup this close on paper, home court advantage typically dictates the favorite and underdog. But even with the Suns traveling to Memphis, they own a 2-1 road record so far this year, being one of only three teams in the Western Conference with a winning one. That likely influences the odds as well.
Phoenix Suns vs Memphis Grizzlies Lineups
Kaminsky’s rise might eventually force Monty Williams to experiment with him as a starter. But so far, even with “the Tank” showing out time after time, Williams has yet to run him out with the first five, and instead chosen to leave him as a closer. With this strategy working all the same, Williams likely rolls with it again tonight.
- PG: Chris Paul
- SG: Devin Booker
- SF: Mikal Bridges
- PF: Jae Crowder
- C: JaVale McGee
Still yet to make any changes to their opening day lineup card, expect to see Grizzlies start the game with a familiar five. Big man Steven Adams is currently questionable for the game, making Xavier Tillman a potential starter. But if they deem it safe before tipoff, they will surely give Adams the go ahead.
- PG: Ja Morant
- SG: De’Anthony Melton
- SF: Desmond Bane
- PF: Jaren Jackson Jr.
- C: Steven Adams
Phoenix Suns vs Memphis Grizzlies Game Prediction
Adams’s availability is the key to this one. With the Suns missing Ayton, Adams likely enjoys a massive game if he finds himself able to suit up. Also in the backcourt, Morant’s athleticism already makes him a nightmare assignment for Paul and Booker to try and defend.
However, the Suns currently post the entire league’s highest field goal percentage. Their potent offense will help them keep pace even with Memphis taking the upper hand in a few individual matchups.
At the end of the day though, few things kill a team like giving up offensive rebounds. The Grizzlies crash the offensive glass better than everyone right now, other than the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Toronto Raptors. That will grant them a few extra possessions, and make a difference in this incredibly close contest.
Final Score: Phoenix Suns 119, Memphis Grizzlies 123
Phoenix Suns Next Up:
Following this game, the Suns continue their road trip, heading back to Houston for a duel with the Rockets. During their last game, the Suns cooked this lottery-bound squad, winning by a 123-111 score.
Unable to compete this year amidst a rebuild, the Rockets quite frankly look like a pancake on Phoenix’s schedule right now. Should the Suns indeed fall to the Grizzlies tonight, this leaves them with a fantastic chance to start up another win streak right away.