8* Phoenix (4:05 ET): The Suns entered the restart with the worst record among remaining Western Conference teams, but have managed to go 2-0 including a come from behind win over Dallas on Sunday. Before that, they had no trouble dispatching Washington 125-112. I like them plus the points here as this line is greatly inflated due to the Clippers’ performance in their last game. Were it not for the Nets-Bucks game earlier today, this would be the highest line for any NBA game since the restart. In this case, it is unwarranted.

The Clippers set a new franchise record with 26 made threes in a 126-103 blowout of New Orleans Sunday. That broke the old mark of 24, set against Miami earlier this season. They were 16 of 24 from behind the arc in the 1st half Sunday, taking a 77-45 lead into the break. Needless to say, the Clips aren’t going to be shooting that well anytime soon. They’re actually shooting less than 43% overall in the two games so far.

Let’s also not forget the Clippers lost their first game. Yes, by only two points, and it was to the Lakers. But it was a loss nevertheless. Even with six more games to play, it’s extremely likely that the Clips are going to finish 2nd in the West. There’s a far greater sense of urgency for the Suns, who not only need to finish within 4th games of 8th place, but also need to leapfrog several teams. The Suns actually sport a better net efficiency rating than several of the teams they are competing against. Take the points. 8* Phoenix