The Denver Nuggets have lost twice in their last four games and will look to regain momentum when they take on the 35-36 Portland Trail Blazers at home. Portland is on a three-game winning streak that has pushed them into play-in territory.
They are currently in 9th place in the East and are tied 1-1 with Denver in the season series. However, the Nuggets defeated them 157-103 in their last meeting and are the clear favorites to pick up another win on paper.
They are trailing several teams and are currently in 5th place in the Western Conference with a 43-28 record. The following predictions are based on odds by DraftKings.
Blazers vs. Nuggets Odds
Trail Blazers: +8.5 (-110)
Nuggets: -8.5 (-110)
Over: 241.5 (-110)
Under: 241.5 (-110)
Blazers vs. Nuggets Major Injuries
Portland remains shorthanded in key areas. Damian Lillard is out for the season, while Shaddon Sharp is also sidelined. Jerami Grant and Witt Krejci are both listed as day-to-day and their availability will be a gametime decision.
In comparison, Denver is almost completely healthy. With only Peyton Watson listed as questionable, their entire list of stars are fit and active for it.
Blazers vs. Nuggets Betting Trends
Denver is not having his most impressive season yet. However, they have been strong at home and fans can expect another win based on the following trends:
- The Nuggets are 4-1 in their last five home games.
- Denver averages 120.7 points per game (No. 1 in the NBA).
- The Nuggets lead the league in three-point percentage (39.2%).
The Trail Blazers, on the other hand, have their work cut out for them, and may face a mountain to climb in Denver.
- The Trail Blazers are 9-11 ATS as road underdogs.
- Portland's average scoring margin in those games is -11.3.
- The Blazers rank 23rd in offensive rating this season.
Their most recent match ended in a massive 54-point victory for the Nuggets. However, with the series tied at 1-1 and recent momentum, the Trail Blazers will be hoping to pull off an upset, although their injury outlook is also worrisome.
Keys to the Blazers vs. Nuggets matchup
The Nuggets have one of the most efficient offenses in the league. Led by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, Denver has the highest-scoring offense in the NBA (120.7 ppg).
Jokic averaged 28.1 points on 57.4% shooting and scored 32 points in less than 30 minutes during the blowout win. The Blazers rank 17th in opponent points in the paint, which plays directly into Jokic's strengths as both a scorer and facilitator.
On the periphery, the difference is even more pronounced. Denver is leading at 39.2% from three (No. 1 in the NBA), while Portland is 29th at 33.8%. So, Denver not only has in-form stars, but they also have a more productive system. Despite the recent momentum, especially in the absence of Lillard and Sharp, the Trail Blazers have struggled to generate points.
Blazers vs. Nuggets Predictions and Picks
The Nuggets will try to dictate proceedings from the beginning. Jok can be expected to take charge once again. However, even if Portland manages to knock him out, Denver's shooting talent and ability to slow down turnovers is bound to cause problems.
Murray scored 31 points in the last game and the Nuggets have more than enough shooters to cause problems all night long. However, the Trail Blazers will try to cause problems of their own.
Denny Advija, Donovan Clingan and Jerami Grant have all scored while Scooter Henderson and Jrue Holiday will also contribute. The Trail Blazers may need to shoot better than in recent games, leaving Jokic and company to go the distance.
Final Blazers-Nuggets predictions and picks: Denver Nuggets -8.5 (-110); Under 241.5 (-110)
