This will be an intriguing matchup for the Nuggets that could have substantial season impacts. Currently, the Nuggets are fifth in the standings with a 13-10 record, but the Kings are 12th with a 13-13 record. This one game could mean a lot when the standings get even tighter later in the year. This should be a very competitive game!
We like the matchup for the Nuggets. They’ll be able to take advantage of a reasonably vulnerable backcourt. With Jamal Murray available, he could be a key piece in their game plan tonight despite his recent struggles. Even more so, Russell Westbrook can feast against a thin Kings bench.
Even with Saboins being one of the better defenders on Jokic, the Kings have no center depth. Sabonis won’t be able to play physically with Jokic, and that player is right in his hands. If Sabonis gets into early foul trouble, this game might as well be over because Alex Len or Isaac Jones are not getting it done against Jokic.
Matchups-wise, the center position might be the only true advantage the Nuggets have in the starting lineup. Down the board, the Kings have a competitive roster, and they should be able to keep this one close. If DeRozan can create for himself and Keegan Murray can provide any positive offense, the Nuggets might need help to keep up.
We’ll see a tight game, but I think the Nuggets will come away with the win tonight.
The Western Conference has been brutal this year, and the Kings have fallen victim. Even with a 500 record, they are in 12th place in the conference. If they were in the East, they would be just behind 7th. The West is already incredibly tight so this game could have long-lasting implications for the standings later. Considering this is the first time these teams have met, they’ll at least see each other three times this year.
The matchup is going to be rough for the Kings. With a lack of depth and limited backup centers, Jokic will be a problem. Of course, no one has been able to stop him this year, but slowing him down might be challenging.
Beyond the nightmare matchup with Jokic, the Kings have generally struggled defensively. They’ve allowed some bad teams to put up huge numbers on them, and they’re sitting in the middle of the league in defensive efficiency. The bench also gives up the league's 11th-most points per game. It's not terrible, but it could hurt them tonight, with Westbrook playing well off the bench for the Nuggets.
The offensive efficiency is better, so we think they’ll have a chance to win this one. With DeRozan available, this team has been solid on offense. The only real disappointment has been Keegan Murray’s shot, which fell off hard this season. If he can find his shot again, this offense could be in the top three in the league.
Overall, this game will close, and we expect loads of offense from both sides. The Kings have a chance if this game turns into a shootout. However, we expect Jokic to continue to carry the Nuggets to wins, so they have a slight edge tonight!
Dario Saric Out
Christian Braun Questionable
Jamal Murray Probable
Kevin Huerter Doubtful
Trey Lyles Out
Spread: +1.5 DEN (-110) / -1.5 SAC (-110)
Total Points: 237.5
Moneyline: DEN (+102) / SAC (-122)
Nikola Jokic 55+ Combined Points + Rebounds + Assists (+170)
De’Aaron Fox 25+ Points (-115)
Domantas Sabonis 14+ Rebounds (+110)
Aaron Gordon 1+ Block (+155)