Reeling from a two-game losing streak, the Phoenix Suns have one last shot at the Playoffs against another club vying for the same last postseason berth in the West: the Memphis Grizzlies.
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Memphis Grizzlies vs. Phoenix Suns Betting Preview
When: Monday, April 14, 2014, 10:00 PM EST
Where: US Airways Center, Phoenix
Line: Memphis (+3.5) at Phoenix (-3.5); total 198.0 – view all NBA lines
Betting on the Memphis Grizzlies
[sc:NBA240banner ]After losing to the Spurs by 20, the Grizzlies uncorked a three-game winning streak where they averaged 108.7 PPG, which is about 13 points more than their season average (95). Moreover, three of the team’s last four games have gone over the line.
A lot of their recent success is thanks to Marc Gasol, whose all-around brilliance has been on full display. In his last five games, the former second-round pick has recorded 17.8 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.2 SPG, and 1.0 BPG, while increasing the Grizzlies’ offensive rating to 107.9 whenever he’s on the court.
Recent history, meanwhile, backs Memphis in this game. Though Phoenix’ run-and-gun style victimizes most opponents, the Grizzlies have been immune against it. In four of their last five meetings, Gasol and company are 4-1 SU and ATS against the Suns, while limiting them to less than 100 points in each affair.
Betting on the Phoenix Suns
The Suns have no one to blame but themselves for the situation they are in. A few days back, they were No. 7 in the West, but are now nearing elimination thanks to losses to San Antonio and Dallas, wherein they relinquished double-digit leads.
Eric Bledsoe is playing like someone who never tore his meniscus – 22.8 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 5.2 APG, 2.3 SPG in April. With Goran Dragic hobbled by a sprained ankle (only 13 points on 6-of-18 shooting vs. DAL), Coach Jeff Hornaceck will rely on Chris Paul’s former backup to lead the reins vs. MEM.
In order to beat Memphis, Phoenix will need to take better care of the ball. The team is averaging 14.9 turnovers per game, which is tied for fifth worst in the NBA. They will also have to limit Memphis’ rebounding. In Phoenix’s three losses to the Grizzlies this season, the latter averaged 51.7 RPG.
Four of the last five Suns games that had them as favorites have gone under the line.
Writer’s Prediction
Taking Memphis’ recent surge and Phoenix’s disappointing past few games into consideration, it looks like the former is the safer wager. Take the Grizzlies -3.5. Who are you going to bet on?
