Suns vs. Thunder — Game Preview & Betting Guide (Sun., Jan. 4)

Phoenix – The Oklahoma City Thunder (30–5) hit the road Sunday to face the Phoenix Suns (20–14) in what will be the third meeting of the season between these two Western Conference rivals. The Thunder have won both previous matchups — including a blowout 138–89 victory in their last meeting — and they’ll look to continue their dominance tonight. Bright Side Of The Sun

Tipoff from Phoenix is set for 7 p.m. CT.

Thunder Rolling — but Banged Up

Oklahoma City enters Phoenix with serious momentum, having won four straight games, including a 131–94 dismantling of the Golden State Warriors on Friday. In that win, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander exploded for 30 points and seven assists in just three quarters, while Chet Holmgren posted a 15-15 double-double with four blocks. NBA

Despite the hot streak, the Thunder could be shorthanded against Phoenix. Multiple rotation players are missing or listed as questionable:

• Isaiah Hartenstein — OUT (soleus strain)

• Ousmane Dieng — OUT (calf strain)

• Jaylin Williams — OUT (heel bursitis)

• Nikola Topic — OUT (surgical recovery)

• Isaiah Joe — Questionable (knee soreness)

• Cason Wallace — Questionable (knee soreness) NBA

If those absences persist, it could limit OKC’s bench depth and alter matchups — but Phoenix will still have its hands full with its core stars.

Suns Coming In Hot

Phoenix is riding confidence after a 129–102 win over the Sacramento Kings on Friday, paced by Devin Booker’s efficient 33-point night. Dillon Brooks and Collin Gillespie also made significant offensive contributions, and the Suns have now won five of their last six games. Reuters

On the injury front, the Suns are relatively healthy — with Jalen Green out (hamstring) and Grayson Allen questionable (knee management). Jordan Goodwin is available (jaw sprain, masked). NBA

Betting Odds & Trends

If you’re doing last-minute betting research, here’s how the lines look based on the latest available odds:

• Spread: Thunder favored (around −14.5)

• Moneyline: Thunder heavy favorite (about −1000 / Suns +650)

• Over/Under: ~225.5 total points expected Yahoo Sports

Some key trends:

• The Thunder have dominated this matchup historically, winning the last seven games against Phoenix. Odds Shark

• The Suns have been solid ATS in their recent games, even as underdogs. Odds Shark

Given OKC’s status as one of the league’s elite squads — and their strong offensive firepower — betting markets currently favor them heavily. Still, Phoenix’s recent form and home-court advantage could keep things tighter than expected if OKC’s missing players struggle to contribute. Yahoo Sports

X-Factor Matchups

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Phoenix perimeter defense — SGA’s ability to score efficiently will be crucial if the Thunder wants to control the game from the start.

• Devin Booker’s efficiency — If Booker catches fire early, Phoenix can hang around against the heavy favorite.

• Depth impact — With several Thunder role players questionable or out, bench play could decide second-unit advantages.

Enjoy the game — and if you’re placing a bet, make sure to check the latest odds before tipoff, as they can move quickly based on injury updates and betting action!