BETTOR’S WEATHER

The line opened around Suns –3.5 on several sportsbooks; it has hovered between –2.5 and –3 depending on where bettors thin out. Public money is leaning heavily on Phoenix at home, about 85-90% of spread tickets by most consensus reports. Sharp action seems to be split—some edges on Suns’ moneyline value due to injuries on L.A., but Clipper backers believe Leonard/Beal return shifts matchup value. Total has been floated around 223.5; Over gets more attention with both teams having had high-scoring games recently, but cashed at variable rates. Key market movers include the injury statuses of Kawhi, Harden, Green; once Phoenix’s injury report clarified Brooks out and Green questionable, more tickets went Suns way. No single reported mega-bet, but cumulative public pressure is building on Suns. ---