Suns vs. Thunder – NBA Playoffs – Game 1 predictions: Odds, recent stats, trends and best bets for April 19

The NBA’s top overall seed, the Oklahoma City Thunder open the defense of their title Sunday at Paycom Center against a battle-tested but potentially fatigued Phoenix Suns squad. Less than 48 hours ago, the Suns eliminated the Golden State Warriors in the play-in tournament while OKC sat at home. Sure, the Suns arrive with momentum and a "nothing to lose" attitude, but the schedule and the Thunder roster see OKC favored by 13.

5 at DraftKings. Oklahoma City started their march to the title last season with a first round sweep. The Suns, led by rookie head coach Jordan Ott , were not expected to be a factor in the Western Conference this season after trading Kevin Durant last summer.

However, they face a monumental task at both ends of the court. OKC’s defense finished the regular season with the best defensive rating in the league. Their offense is quarterbacked by league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander .

Phoenix will need an MVP-level performance from Devin Booker and major contributions from the supporting cast. Key to the matchup is the battle between reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Phoenix’s perimeter defenders, specifically Dillon Brooks , who will more than likely be tasked with slowing down SGA. If somehow the Suns succeed in containing the MVP, they then must slow down the supporting cast led by Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams .