This is a potential flat spot for the Suns playing in just their second road game since Jan. 20. It's also their first Eastern time zone start time in more than two weeks.

The Hawks aren't known for their defense. But their defense has been under-the-radar good recently. If you discount giving up 121 points to the Lakers, the Hawks have given up an average of just 100.2 points during their last five games.

Atlanta has been idle since Monday. So the Hawks should be energized with a strong defensive game plan.

The Suns have held their last 10 opponents to an average of 103.5 points if you throw out their game against the Timberwolves where they surrendered 124 points. Phoenix ranks seventh in the league defensively. The Suns are in the top four in defensive field goal percentage and 3-point defense. Big man Deandre Ayton just returned from missing seven games with an ankle injury. That's a plus for the Under because of Ayton's rebounding shot blocking. He's rusty on offense.

The Hawks lost, 106-100, to the Raptors in their last game. Atlanta was bothered by Toronto's defensive pressure. The Suns are a better defensive team than the Raptors.

Trae Young did not play against Toronto. He's questionable here with a shoulder bruise. It's a nice bonus for the Under if Young doesn't play again, but it doesn't change my handicap if he does see action.