As the Phoenix Suns travel to Dallas to take on the Mavericks this Sunday afternoon, the stakes are high for both teams. This is about sending a message before the playoffs in their fourth and final matchup of the season.
With both teams retooled since their last meeting, the competition is sure to be intense. Dallas has already claimed victory in two of the three matchups this season, but Phoenix is determined to turn the tables. Keep an eye on Devin Booker, the Suns' co-star player, as Dallas knows that containing him will be key to securing a win.
Find out your best options with our free NBA picks and predictions for Suns vs. Mavericks on Sunday, March 5.
Suns vs Mavericks best odds
Suns vs Mavericks picks and predictions
Devin Booker is a scoring machine who has yet to show any signs of slowing down. In fact, in the two games he has played with Kevin Durant, he has averaged an impressive 36 ppg. This suggests that Booker is still the primary scoring option for the Phoenix Suns, and he will continue to put up big numbers against the Dallas Mavericks.
In those two games with Durant, Booker attempted a total of 50 shots, which suggests that he is not shy about shooting the ball regardless of who is on the court. This willingness to take shots will be an important factor in his ability to score over 26 points against the Mavericks.
The Dallas defense is exploitable and ranks 24th in the NBA in defensive rating. This game is likely to be a high-scoring affair, which plays into the hands of someone like Booker, who excels in a fast-paced offensive game.
Luka Doncic and Booker will be tasked with slowing down each other in this game, but neither player is known for their defensive skills. I’m expecting Booker to come out aggressive and look to get going immediately.
While Dallas did slow down Booker in their December matchup, they can no longer rely on double teams to limit his scoring output due to the presence of Durant on the Suns' roster. This will create easier opportunities for Booker to score, and will likely result in a higher point total for him in this game.
My best bet: Devin Booker Over 26.5 points (-115 at FanDuel)
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Suns vs Mavericks spread analysis
The Mavericks are -1.5 favorites over the Suns as of this writing. This game will be interesting to follow, as both teams have added new pieces to their lineups, and it will be the first real test for the Suns since adding Durant to their roster.
Dallas has a 2-1 record against Phoenix this season, including a 19-point victory in December. However, with the recent additions of Durant to the Suns and Kyrie Irving to the Mavericks, the past results mean nothing moving forward. The outcome of this game will likely come down to which duo makes a bigger impact.
This game could potentially be a first-round matchup in the playoffs, which makes it even more important for both teams to perform well. Here is a stat to keep in mind — the Mavericks score 113.8 points per game. Phoenix is 27-14-1 ATS when giving up fewer than 113.8 points.
Suns vs Mavericks Over/Under analysis
The Over/Under for this tilt is currently set at 232.5. Both teams boast impressive offensive ratings and have several star players who can put up big numbers. With the likes of Durant, Irving, Booker, and Doncic on the floor, it's easy to see why the Over seems like the logical choice. These players are known for their scoring ability, and can take over games with their individual talents.
The bad blood between Booker and Doncic is also worth noting, as it adds an extra layer of competitiveness to the game. Both players will likely be looking to prove themselves and lead their teams to victory.
Dallas has a Top 5 offensive rating in the NBA, and Irving and Doncic recently made history by becoming the first Dallas teammates to each score 40 or more points in the same game. Meanwhile, Durant has integrated seamlessly into the Suns' system and has been a steady force since joining the team.
With all of these factors in play, it's not surprising that the Over/Under for this game is set so high.
Suns vs Mavericks betting trend to know
The Suns are 3-0-1 ATS in their last four games overall. Find more NBA betting trends for Suns vs. Mavericks.
Suns vs Mavericks game info
| Location: | American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX |
| Date: | Sunday, March 5, 2023 |
| Tip-off: | 1:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | ABC |
