Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City 1/31/24 – As the Denver Nuggets gear up to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in an eagerly anticipated showdown, the basketball community is abuzz with predictions and analysis. Both teams boast impressive records, with the Nuggets standing at 32-15 and the Thunder slightly ahead at 32-13, making this matchup a crucial one for the Western Conference standings. Set for Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at the Paycom Center, this game is a must-watch for fans seeking free NBA betting picks and an insight into the high-octane world of the NBA.
| When: | Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at 8:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Paycom Center |
| TV: | BSOK |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Quick trip ✌️ pic.twitter.com/m5DpbuVnCu
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) January 31, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuggets | +2 -111 | o231.5 -111 | +112 |  |
| Thunder | -2 -111 | u231.5 -111 | -133 | |
| ||||
Nikola Jokic (C) vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG)
Nikola Jokic has been putting up impressive numbers across the board this season. In 46 games started, he’s averaging 33.6 minutes while putting up 26.3 points, 12 rebounds and 8.9 assists. He’s also averaging 1.1 steals and 0.9 blocks. His versatility as a passer and scorer makes him difficult to stop. However, his pedestrian 2.9 turnovers per game and questionable man-to-man defense are weaknesses to exploit.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken a leap this year as OKC’s primary option. Through 44 starts, he’s playing 34.3 minutes per game and scoring an incredible 31.1 points on 50.4% shooting. In addition to his scoring, he’s dishing 6.4 assists and nabbing 2.3 steals per contest. SGA has the ability to get buckets from all three levels and blow by most defenders. However, he can be overpowered by bigger, stronger opponents.
This matchup features two supremely gifted offensive players. Jokic is an elite playmaker who can take over games with his scoring and facilitating. SGA is a dynamic, three-level scorer who can erupt for huge point totals. Whichever star can maximize their strengths while exposing the other’s weaknesses will gain the upper hand for their team.
Nuggets’ Statistical Strides: A Closer Look
The Nuggets have been an offensive powerhouse, scoring 115.1 points per game with an incredible 49.6% field goal percentage. Their three-point shooting averaged 37.1% with Jokic providing plenty of playmaking. Their defense needs tightening against an opponent like Oklahoma City that excels at scoring, though.
Thunder’s Statistical Surge: Analyzing the Numbers
Oklahoma City Thunder has proven itself as an efficient offensive team with their average of 121.6 points per game and field goal percentage of 50.4%, including an excellent three-point shooting (39%), free throw percentage (83.7%), and 8.4 steals and 6.5 blocks per game on defense – numbers which reflect how effective their offensive strategy has been against Denver Nuggets.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
As of now, the betting odds for this high-stakes game are TBD. However, based on the teams’ performances and standings, it’s expected to be a close call. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread and Moneyline as they’re announced, considering both teams’ impressive records and offensive capabilities.
Trends
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
Nuggets are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Denver Nuggets are 1-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Nuggets are 8-16 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 0 of Nuggets’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 9 of Nuggets’ 22 last games at home.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
Thunder are 5-0 in their last 5 games.
OKC Thunder are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Thunder are 14-8 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Thunder’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 12 of Thunder’ 22 last games at home.
Injuries
Denver Nuggets
Nikola Jokic C Is “?” Wednesday vs Oklahoma City, Back
Vlatko Cancar SF Is out indefinitely, Knee
Julian Strawther SF Is downgraded to OUT Wednesday vs Oklahoma City, Knee
Oklahoma City Thunder
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander PG Is “?” Wednesday vs Denver, Illness
Luguentz Dort SG Is “?” Wednesday vs Denver, Ankle
Tre Mann SG Is upgraded to probable Wednesday vs Denver, Personal
Jalen Williams SG Is OUT Wednesday vs Denver, Ankle
Chet Holmgren PF Is “?” Wednesday vs Denver, Ankle
Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Picks
Considering the current form and statistical strengths of both teams, this game is poised to be a closely contested battle. The Nuggets’ balanced offense led by Jokic will face a stern test against the Thunder’s dynamic scoring and defensive prowess. However, the Nuggets’ struggle on the road against the spread is a crucial factor to consider.
In terms of betting picks, while the exact odds are yet to be determined, the Thunder might have a slight edge, especially with their recent form and home advantage. Prop bets on key players like Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander could be interesting, given their impactful performances. For the over/under, considering the Thunder’s high-scoring games and the Nuggets’ recent trend of lower totals, bettors might find value in exploring these options on premier betting websites. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Thunder 118, Nuggets 114.
