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BETS: Best Picks for Grizzlies vs. Suns

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  • What: NBA Regular Season Game
  • When: February 11, 2025
  • Who: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Phoenix Suns
  • Time:  7:30 p.m. PST
  • Where: Footprint Arena (Phoenix, AZ)

The Phoenix Suns are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies, and the buzz around Kevin Durant’s potential return is palpable.

Durant, who ranks sixth in the NBA with an impressive 26.9 points per game and shoots a scorching 52.4% from the field, is a game-changer.

The numbers don’t lie: the Suns are a different beast when Durant is on the court. They boast a 24-15 record when he plays, but that drops to a dismal 2-11 when he’s sidelined.

With him trending towards a return, the Suns are not just looking to win; they’re looking to cover the 4.5-point spread against a Grizzlies team that has struggled on the road.

Memphis

The Grizzlies have claimed victory in eight of their last 10 matchups and currently sit in second place in the Western Conference. A significant factor contributing to their success is their offensive performance.

The team leads the NBA with an impressive average of 123.5 points per game and ranks fifth with a field goal percentage of 48.6.

Moreover, the Grizzlies are seventh in the league for three-point shooting percentage and ninth in the number of threes made per game.

Earlier in the season, Memphis faced the Suns on the road and emerged victorious, scoring 117 points despite not having their best shooting night. They compensated for the lower percentage with a high volume of attempts.

In that game, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane combined for an impressive 69 points, along with 17 rebounds and 11 assists. As a unit, the Grizzlies also took 33 free throws and secured 16 offensive rebounds.

Phoenix

Let’s break it down. The Suns have been a solid home team this season, holding a 16-10 record at Footprint Center. In contrast, the Grizzlies have lost 11 of their 17 games away from home.

This trend is significant, especially when you consider that the Suns average more points per game at home while allowing four points less than they do on the road. If the Suns can maintain their home court advantage, they’ll be in a prime position to cover that spread.

In their previous encounter, the Suns fell to the Grizzlies 117-112, but the score doesn’t tell the whole story. Phoenix held Memphis to a mere 42.6% shooting from the field and 34.1% from beyond the arc.

Sure, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane had their moments, but the rest of the Grizzlies struggled to find their rhythm. If the Suns can replicate that defensive effort and avoid foul trouble, they’ll be in a great spot to not only compete but potentially win outright.

The Suns need to tighten up their defensive glass work, but the low shooting percentage from Memphis in their last matchup is a promising sign.

If they can keep the Grizzlies from getting easy looks and force them into tough shots, the Suns will have a solid chance to cover the spread. Plus, with both Durant and Ja Morant expected to play, this game is shaping up to be a thrilling showdown.

Grizzlies-Suns Best Bet

While the Grizzlies may have the edge in terms of overall record, the Suns’ home court advantage, coupled with Durant’s return, makes this spread feel a bit off.

I’m not saying the Suns will win, but I firmly believe they’ll cover that 4.5-point spread. So, if you’re looking to place a bet, the Suns +4.5 is the play here.

Let’s see if they can turn the tide and make a statement at home!

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Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!

Tony Reyes is a sports betting analyst and reporter for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @TonyParlay.

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