As the NBA gears up for an action-packed evening with 12 games on the schedule, all eyes are on the showdown between the Phoenix Suns and the Dallas Mavericks. This clash is set to take place at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, where tip-off is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. ET. Betting odds have the Mavericks as the slight favorites, by 1.5 points, and set the game total at O/U 245.5, indicating an expectation for a high-scoring affair.
Team Performance so far
The Suns and Mavericks are neck and neck in the standings, with Dallas sitting just one game behind Phoenix. The Mavericks are riding a six-game winning streak, a testament to their recent excellent form. Phoenix, on the other hand, has also been in good shape, winning five out of their last six games and seven out of the last 10. Before their break, the Suns managed back-to-back victories over the Sacramento Kings and the Detroit Pistons but faced challenges in away games, losing two of their last three on the road. Kevin Durant has been particularly impactful for Phoenix, averaging 27.2 points per game over his last five outings. The Mavericks, buoyed by the additions of P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford, are undefeated in the three games since the new signings arrived, including a comprehensive 116-93 victory over the Spurs in their most recent match. Currently, Dallas holds the seventh position in the Western Conference standings with a 32-23 record.
Injuries and Team News
Injury updates could play a significant role in the game's outcome. Bradley Beal's participation is uncertain due to a hamstring issue, while Damion Lee will miss out due to a knee problem. For the Mavericks, Luka Doncic is expected to play as he is listed as probable. The situation is similar for Dereck Lively and Maxi Kleber, boosting the team's roster. Unfortunately, Dante Exum remains sidelined, which could impact the game's dynamics.
Head-to-Head and Statistical Insights
The season series is tied at 1-1, with both teams winning one game each. The Suns triumphed 132-109 in their last visit to the American Airlines Center, while the Mavericks managed a 128-114 win against Phoenix in Arizona. Statistically, both teams are closely matched. Phoenix averages 117.6 points per game (12th in the NBA), while Dallas scores slightly more at 118.7 points per game (7th in the NBA). Defensively, the Suns allow 114.3 points per game (15th in the NBA), compared to Dallas, which gives up 117.2 points per game (19th in the NBA). However, Phoenix boasts a higher field goal percentage at 49.9% (3rd in the NBA), indicating their efficiency in scoring.
When it comes to betting statistics, Dallas has a better against-the-spread (ATS) record this season (29-26-0) compared to the Suns (23-30-2). Dallas has also performed well as the favorites, covering in 61.3% of such games, whereas Phoenix has a 6-7-0 record as underdogs. Interestingly, when playing as road underdogs, Phoenix has managed to cover in 55.56% of matchups, which could make betting on this game intriguing.
Key Players to Watch
The game features some of the league's top performers. For the Suns, both Durant and Devin Booker have been in stellar form. Durant is the league's fifth-highest scorer this season with an average of 28.2 points per game, and Booker is not far behind in the eighth spot, averaging 27.5 points per game. The Mavericks’ ace, Luka Doncic, is leading the league in points per game (34.2) and also leads his team in rebounds (8.8), assists (9.5), and steals (1.4). Kyrie Irving also significantly contributes to Dallas with an average of 25.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. Daniel Gafford, since joining the Mavericks, has been impressive, averaging 12.0 rebounds per game.
Prediction
Given their current form and the advantage of playing at home, the Dallas Mavericks are expected to continue their winning streak. Although the matchup with the Suns promises to be a closely contested battle, Dallas seems to have a slight edge, especially if their key players perform to their potential. Therefore, the safe bet might be "Dallas Mavericks -1.5 (-110 with BetMGM)." Nonetheless, with both teams closely matched and star players on either side, basketball fans can look forward to an entertaining and competitive game.