Blazers vs. Suns NBA expert prediction and odds for Monday, Jan. 1 (Bet Portland)

The Portland Trail Blazers are on the road against the Phoenix Suns – who are playing the second night of a back-to-back – on Monday, Jan. 1. 

Portland has struggled this season, and it is down a couple of key players (Deandre Ayton, Anfernee Simons) for this matchup.

However, with Bradley Beal working his way back from an ankle injury, the Suns may sit him on the second night of a back-to-back. 

Let’s dive into the odds – and my best bet – for this New Year’s Day clash: 

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Blazers injury report

Suns injury report

Portland Trail Blazers

Scoot Henderson: With Simons out and Sharpe questionable, rookie Scoot Henderson could see an increased role on Monday. The No. 3 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft has played well as of late, scoring 22 and 25 points in back-to-back starts against the San Antonio Spurs. 

Phoenix Suns

Devin Booker: Since this is the second night of a back-to-back and Beal may sit, Booker could be in line for a huge workload at guard after he scored 21 points last night against Orlando. Booker is averaging 27.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 8.0 assists per game. 

I am worried about Portland with Simons out in this game, but I’d wait until there is more clarity on the Phoenix injury report before taking a side here. 

Still, I lean with the Blazers, as the Suns could rule out any of their Big 3 for rest after a hard-fought game with Orlando on Sunday night. 

The Blazers are an impressive 9-6 ATS as road dogs this season, while Phoenix is just 4-11 ATS as a home favorite. 

Also, the Blazers have covered in their last five games as double-digit underdogs. I think they’re worth a shot – if you want to get ahead of a Suns player getting ruled out – on Monday night. 

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

Find Peter Dewey's NBA betting record here (futures included). You can also follow my daily plays on BetStamp here.