The No. 1-seed Phoenix Suns open their second-round Western Conference playoff series Monday at home against the No. 4 seed Dallas Mavericks. Tip-off from Footprint Center is set for 10 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Mavericks vs. Suns Game 1 odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.
The Mavericks eliminated the Utah Jazz in the first round of the playoffs in 6 games. G Luka Doncic missed the first 3 games of that series but averaged 29.0 points in games 4-6. G Jalen Brunson averaged 27.8 points per game in the series.
The Suns also came out of the first round of the playoffs in six games, eliminating the New Orleans Pelicans. They overcame a hamstring injury to G Devin Booker, who missed three games before returning to play in the series clincher. G Chris Paul shot a perfect 14-for-14 from the field and 4-for-4 from the free-throw line for 33 points in the final game.
Mavericks at Suns odds and lines
- Money line: Mavericks +190 (bet $100 to win $190) | Suns -240 (bet $240 to win $100)
- Against the spread (ATS): Mavericks +5.5 (-107) | Suns -5.5 (-115)
- Over/Under (O/U): 214.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)
Mavericks at Suns key injuries
Mavericks
- G Tim Hardaway Jr. (foot) out
Suns
- None
Mavericks at Suns picks and predictions
Prediction
Suns 110, Mavericks 103
Money line
PASS.
The Suns are healthy and had the league’s best home record during the regular season. They did lose 1 game at home in the first round against the Pelicans, who were able to battle with size and rebounding.
The Suns have won their last 9 matchups against the Mavericks, who were only 23-18 on the road this season.
I like the Suns (-240) to win, but the odds aren’t suitable for a single wager. PASS.