Rory Gold

If this game was an NFL betting matchup, it would be the New York Jets against the San Diego Chargers: a strong defense looks to shut down a high-powered offense. That will be the scene in Charlotte on Saturday, when the stingy Bobcats host the run-and-gun Phoenix Suns.

Suns vs Bobcats odds – Saturday, January 16, 7:00 PM ET

The Suns had been held under 100 points only five times ahead of Friday’s meeting with Atlanta, and they currently lead the NBA in scoring. Six Suns are averaging at least 10.8 points, led by Amare Stoudamire with 20.9 points. Steve Nash steers the ship with 19.2 points and 11.2 assists, but he’s stepped up his game recently, putting up 24.4 points and 11.2 assists in his last five games. However, the Suns are second-worst in the league in points allowed, and it’s such a mystery as to why Stoudamire, in particular, isn’t a good defensive player. The Suns don’t even seem to care about defense, which is the main reason sportsbook players can’t put much faith in them.

The Bobcats lead the league in points against, and coach Larry Brown has them playing very disciplined. Gerald Wallace and Raymond Felton are both averaging over a steal a game, while Tyson Chandler provides a big body in the middle. This makes up for a lack of scoring on the squad as Wallace leads the way with 17.9 points. This will be the fourth of a six-game  homestand for the Bobcats, who were 14-4 at home before Friday’s visit from San Antonio. Charlotte isn’t a very talented team, but they know their limits and play within them, and it may not parlay into a playoff spot, but at least they’re showing improvement.

Bookmaker odds (bookmaker reviews) should favour the Bobcats at home because of how well they play in Charlotte, but they’ll need a big performance to change their fortunes against the Suns. Phoenix has won nine of their last 10 meetings with the Bobcats, including four of five in Charlotte. Both teams will be playing tough teams the night before, but the Bobcats will have a bit of an edge since they don’t have to travel like Phoenix. Even though Atlanta to Charlotte isn’t that far, it’s still a couple of hours rest that the Suns won’t have.

Sports betting picks: Charlotte

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