PREMIUM
Stephen Nover's NBA Total of the Week
(NBA) Phoenix vs. Miami,
Total: 211.00 | -105.00 Over
Result: Win
Total: 211.00 | -105.00 Over
Result: Win
Miami has been playing at a faster tempo since losing Chris Bosh. But that could start to change now that veteran Joe Johnson has become a primary addition.
The Heat still rank No. 2 defensively in the NBA giving up fewer than 97 points per game. The Suns really struggle on the road where they've averaged a measly 86.2 points during their past five away contests.
The Suns are stronger inside and more deliberate offensively with big men Tyson Chandler and Alex Len now in the lineup together. The Suns, with their weak backcourt, know they can't beat opponents playing fast-tempo. The under has cashed seven of the past nine times the Suns have faced opponents with a winning record.
If the score does get lopsided, the Heat are likely to play their reserves extra minutes. Miami has some older veteran with wear and tear and play again on Friday. So it would be prudent to cut back on their starter's minutes if the game is well in hand.
The Heat still rank No. 2 defensively in the NBA giving up fewer than 97 points per game. The Suns really struggle on the road where they've averaged a measly 86.2 points during their past five away contests.
The Suns are stronger inside and more deliberate offensively with big men Tyson Chandler and Alex Len now in the lineup together. The Suns, with their weak backcourt, know they can't beat opponents playing fast-tempo. The under has cashed seven of the past nine times the Suns have faced opponents with a winning record.
If the score does get lopsided, the Heat are likely to play their reserves extra minutes. Miami has some older veteran with wear and tear and play again on Friday. So it would be prudent to cut back on their starter's minutes if the game is well in hand.