Suns vs Raptors Prediction, Odds & Game Preview 3/17/2025

Fresh off a tough loss to the Rockets, the Phoenix Suns (30-36) return to the Footprint Center hoping to rediscover their offensive rhythm against the visiting Toronto Raptors (23-43), with Bradley Beal's hot hand - coming off a 25-point performance on 64.3% shooting - potentially being the X-factor.

While the Suns boast the NBA's seventh-best field goal percentage at 48%, their defensive struggles have been evident, giving up 116.4 points per game - a vulnerability the Raptors might exploit despite their own offensive challenges, averaging just 110.8 points per contest.

The matchup pits Phoenix's fluid offense, dishing out 27.9 assists per game, against Toronto's scrappy defense that's been forcing 14.6 turnovers per contest, setting up an intriguing battle between the home team's firepower and the away team's defensive grit.

Phoenix Suns vs. Toronto Raptors preview

The struggling Raptors head to the Footprint Center riding an unexpected high after their impressive 118-105 victory over the 76ers, where A.J. Lawson lit up the court with 28 points.

Phoenix's recent stumble against Houston, despite Bradley Beal's efficient 25-point performance, has added pressure to their playoff aspirations.

The Suns' offensive prowess, ranking 7th in the league with a 48% field goal percentage, could prove challenging for Toronto's defense that's allowing opponents to shoot 46.7% from the field.

Both teams have shown vulnerability on the defensive end this season - the Suns giving up 116.4 points per game while the Raptors aren't far behind at 115.7.

Toronto's rebounding edge might be their silver lining, pulling down 44.7 boards per game compared to Phoenix's 42.6, though they'll need more than just glass cleaning to overcome their road woes.

Keep an eye on the three-point battle, where neither team has particularly excelled this season - the Raptors shooting 34.9% and the Suns allowing opponents to hit 36.4% from beyond the arc.

The Suns' home court advantage and superior ball movement (27.9 assists per game) could be the difference-maker in what's shaping up to be an intriguing Monday night matchup.