Amidst an incredible season where the Suns have primarily sat in the West’s driver’s seat, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Cornerstone guard Chris Paul — the man who often turns the Suns into an actual gigantic ball of fire — broke his thumb right before the All-Star Break. An utter disaster. As long as Paul was out, the Suns’ ongoing reign in the West appeared to be coming to an end.
Instead, Phoenix went 11-4 over their next 15 games. They even gained ground on the Grizzlies and Warriors (who have since switched places in seeding). Uh-oh. It turns out the Suns are still scorchingly good even without their floor general.
Thursday night couldn’t be a better time for Paul to return on the road against the Nuggets (-1.5).
After missing last 15 games due to thumb fracture, Suns say All-Star Chris Paul is probable to return tonight vs. Nuggets in Denver.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 24, 2022
Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns Odds
Spread: Nuggets -1.5
Moneyline: Nuggets (-115), Suns (-105)
Point Total: 223.5
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As much as I like Denver in its mountainous home digs, Paul changes the equation. MVP candidate Nikola Jokic might be an incredible talent capable of taking over any game, but I’m not about to give an edge to any team playing a full-strength Suns squad.
Sure, Paul will probably be a bit rusty in his first game back. He’ll need time to get into a groove, and the Nuggets might take advantage. Given his absence, his conditioning is probably lacking, making it a less-than-ideal time to play in Denver. I don’t know about you, but my lungs have “burned” whenever I’ve visited Denver. I can’t imagine what it’d be like to run around against some of the greatest athletes in the world.
That said, Paul is a pro. He doesn’t need to go full throttle to control a game. Look for him to facilitate Phoenix’s offense well in his customary CP3 fashion. More importantly, look for the other Suns to pick up the slack and help their leader ease back in against a potential playoff opponent.
Betting against the Suns was already a sketchy prospect. It’s even less advisable when they have all of their horses in the stable.
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