Clippers vs Suns Odds, Predictions, Injuries & Same-Game Parlay (Game 1)

• The Clippers and Suns begin their first-round series on Sunday
• Phoenix is a 7-point favorite for Game 1
• Keep reading for the Clippers vs Suns odds, preview, and prediction for Game 1

The Western Conference quarterfinals between the Los Angeles Clippers (44-38, 21-20 away) and the Phoenix Suns (45-37, 28-13 home) officially begin on Sunday, April 16th with Game 1 at the Footprint Center. The tip-off is scheduled for 8 PM ET.

The Clips head into the NBA Playoffs as the No. 5 seed but will be without Paul George for the beginning of this series at the very least as he continues to rehab a knee injury. The Suns meanwhile secured fourth spot in the West and have the third-best NBA Championship odds at +480.

Clippers vs Suns Odds

Phoenix is a clear 7-point favorite for Game 1 with moneyline odds of -285. LA comes back at +240. The two teams split the season series with a pair of wins apiece, with Phoenix covering the spread in both victories.

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Odds as of April 15th at DraftKings.

How Will Clippers Do Without PG?

Los Angeles faces a serious uphill battle to get out of the first round and will have to knock off one of the title favorites. It’s also hard to imagine how they can pull off the upset without George, one of their best players, and a walking bucket.

On a more positive note, the Clippers have a clean bill of health other than PG. Kawhi Leonard will be expected to lead the way on both ends of the floor while LA is undoubtedly hoping Russell Westbrook can play at a high level and pick up a lot of the offensive load in place of George.

24 hours ⏳ pic.twitter.com/WFqjZIOE4N

— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) April 16, 2023

Ty Lue’s squad has yet to face Durant in a Suns uniform and defending the 12-time All-Star will be a task in itself. Even if they manage to contain KD, you also have Devin Booker who is more than capable of balling out.

Suns Perfect With Durant

Durant’s tenure with Phoenix started off sour, coming back for a pair of games before injuring his ankle. But, he’s now healthy and Suns fans are loving what they’ve seen. This team is a perfect 8-0 with KD on the floor, giving everyone a glimpse into what Monty Williams’ group is truly capable of.

Although the Phoenix offense only ranked 13th and 17th in PPG, that was mostly before Durant’s arrival. With the veteran and Booker, the Suns have one of the best duos in the playoffs who can really do some serious damage. Defensively, this rotation has also been solid, sitting seventh in the Association.

Tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/vxDK3juRLl

— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) April 15, 2023

It’s also important to note the Clippers have taken a notable step back when it comes to defending compared to past seasons. It wouldn’t be surprising the least to see the Suns take advantage, starting with Game 1.

Clippers vs Suns Same-Game Parlay

Odds as of April 15th at DraftKings.

Alright, this seems like a rather simple same-game parlay at DraftKings. But just considering how well Durant is playing with the Suns, it’s worth a bet. KD is averaging 26 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.5 dimes with his new team in eight outings.

The only question mark could be the assists but in fairness, it’s the playoffs and Durant will be unselfish, looking to get others involved. Especially Booker. At +165, this should be on your radar.

Clippers vs Suns Game 1 Prediction

With the electric atmosphere at home, I expect the Suns to take advantage in the opener. Phoenix also went 18-13-1 as an ATS favorite at the Footprint Center. they will win this one in convincing fashion.

Pick: Suns -7 (-110)

Other NBA picks today:

• Lakers vs Grizzlies Game 1 Odds, Injuries & Same-Game Parlay
• Game 1 Heat vs Bucks Picks & Odds
• Timberwolves vs Nuggets Game 1 Odds & Picks