The Sacramento Kings and the Phoenix Suns are set to kick off their seasons on Wednesday at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona, with the game scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. ET. As anticipation builds for this matchup, BetMGM Sportsbook has released insights on the NBA odds surrounding the Kings versus Suns game, providing a backdrop for expert predictions and betting recommendations.
Last season, the Kings had a commendable outing, securing a 40-win regular season and reaching the Play-In Tournament, including three victories over the Suns. However, despite these accomplishments, changes were made in the front office, with General Manager Monte McNair being replaced by Scott Perry. Doug Christie, who performed admirably as interim coach, has now been appointed as the full-time coach. This offseason, the Kings bolstered their roster with the additions of forward Drew Eubanks, forward Dario Saric, and guards Dennis Schroder and Russell Westbrook. They also made a splash in the NBA Draft by selecting guard Nique Clifford from Colorado State.
On the flip side, the Suns have seen significant roster changes, particularly following their high-profile trade of forward Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets, which was part of a massive seven-team deal. Despite signing guard Devin Booker to an extension, the Suns lost key players such as guard Bradley Beal and guard Tyus Jones. New arrivals include forward Dillon Brooks and guard Jalen Green, along with rookie center Khaman Maluach. However, Suns fans will have to be patient, as Green is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
As for the betting odds for the Kings and Suns, the current figures from BetMGM Sportsbook indicate that the Kings are listed at +150 on the moneyline, meaning a wager of $100 would yield a profit of $150. The Suns are favored at -185, requiring a bet of $185 to win $100. Against the spread (ATS), the Kings are getting 4.5 points at -115, while the Suns are laying the same amount at -105. The over/under for total points scored is set at 228.5.
Injury updates present challenges for both teams, as the Kings will be missing forward Keegan Murray and big man Domantas Sabonis due to injuries. Likewise, the Suns will continue without Jalen Green, although guard Grayson Allen is listed as probable with a hip injury.
Based on recent analyses, predictions favor the Suns to take the victory with a projected score of 113-106. While the Suns’ odds are reasonable, experts suggest focusing on the spread rather than making a straight moneyline bet, given the current injury dynamics affecting both rosters. There is also a recommendation to consider the under bet on the total points, set at 228.5, as significant offensive contributors for both teams will be unavailable. Historically, the total has tended to lean towards the under in past meetings, further supporting this betting strategy.
As fans gear up for this season opener, the Kings and Suns both look to establish their footing in what promises to be an exciting NBA season. With both teams facing injury challenges, it will be fascinating to see how each adjusts and performs on the court.