NBA: Phoenix Suns vs Charlotte Hornets Preview, Odds, Prediction

The Phoenix Suns visit Charlotte Hornets in yet another tough clash during their tour through the Eastern Conference. Monty Williams’ team is playing well so far, and apart from the unexpected loss in Florida against the Magic, things were going OK so far. The Hornets have been on the rise over the past three matches, erasing all the failures during a stretch that saw them playing away from home. LaMelo Ball’s injury disrupted their plans, but we are more than sure that Devonte Graham has enough quality to replace the guy who would probably win the Rookie Of The Year award.

Preview

Phoenix Suns (30-14, -210) have four wins in the past five games, with the note that since the start of their road-trip, all of the opening three games took place in Florida. The first was a win against the Heat, 110-100, then came the defeat against the Magic 112-111, and at last another triumph vs. Toronto Raptors, 104-100.

The Suns beat the Raptors in a thrilling finish that didn’t see them scoring a field goal in almost the last 4 minutes. They were fully focused from the free-throw line, and eventually won, even though their best player, Devin Booker, had a slow night with just 16 points.

Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton took over with 19 points each, with the note that Paul added six boards and eight assists. Ayton grabbed 9 rebounds. The Suns made just nine threes in 36 attempts but won anyway. Also, Phoenix had only nine free throws, which is unusual for them.

Charlotte Hornets (23-21, +170) came back home following a five-game journey and won the match against the Miami Heat, 110-105. Previously, the San Antonio Spurs and the Houston Rockets were the Hornets’ victims.

This is a very interesting unit, with lots of potentials, yet one very big limitation. The franchise from North Carolina has a mediocre frontcourt, with under-average players in all those positions, especially in the offense. If they had one solid center, this crew would be among the top five teams in the East.

Malik Monk was superb against the Miami Heat, dropping 32 points while shooting 12-for-17 from the field. He once again proved to be one of the most lethal shooting guards in the league, and the only thing he needs is to spend more time on the court. Terry Rozier had 26 points and 11 assists, while Graham added 16 with 8 dimes.

Head to Head

The Hornets won the first match of the year in Phoenix, 124-121, with Monk being the top scorer once again, delivering 29 points. Booker had 33 on the other side, but that wasn’t enough for the hosts in that one to post a victory.

Prediction

Our pick for this match is over 221 points because we really believe in the offensive potential on both sides. The first game saw a fast-paced and electric style of play, and there is no reason to be any different on Sunday night. The odds are very good, -110, which is an additional reason to go with it, instead of risking the money with the full-time result.

Pick: Over 221 points.