Denver Nuggets vs. LA Clippers 12/6/23 – The Denver Nuggets (14-7) face off against the LA Clippers (9-10) on Wednesday night in an interconference showdown. In this preview, we’ll analyze these teams’ strengths and weaknesses. This matchup features two talented big men in Nikola Jokic and Paul George who will look to lead their teams. The Nuggets have won four straight while the Clippers have struggled lately. Our NBA betting picks expect Denver’s hot streak to continue behind MVP Jokic.
| When: | Wednesday, December 6, 10:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
More to come 🃏 pic.twitter.com/vUuYBo7H5w
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) December 6, 2023
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuggets | +1.5 -112 | o223.5 -112 | -114 |  |
| Clippers | -1.5 -110 | u223.5 -111 | -103 | |
| ||||
Nikola Jokic (C) vs Paul George (F)
Reigning back-to-back league MVP Nikola Jokic has been putting up video game numbers once again for the Nuggets this season. He’s averaging 29 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 9.8 assists while posting an incredible 34.1 PER. Jokic exploits mismatches with his rare combination of size, court vision, and shooting touch. He should have the upper hand against a Clippers frontcourt lacking rim protection.
Paul George missed the first month recovering from injuries but has regained his All-Star form. PG13 is scoring 23.5 points to go along with 5.8 boards and 4.3 assists per contest. An elite perimeter defender, George will likely draw the Jokic assignment to try slowing down Denver’s unstoppable center. His two-way impact gives the Clippers a fighting chance, but Jokic should still get his numbers.
This marquee matchup pits the league’s most dominant pivot against one of its top wing defenders. While George has the tools to make Jokic work, the Serbian’s size and skill set are extremely difficult counters. MVP frontrunner Jokic should exploit LA’s lack of interior deterrence to will Denver to another win.
Denver Nuggets Offensive Firepower
The Nuggets boast the NBA’s 5th ranked offense, putting up 114.5 points per game. Denver shoots efficiently, cashing 49.5% of their field goal attempts, including 36.3% from three. The team also does a great job moving the ball, evidenced by their 3rd ranked 30.1 assists per contest.
Jokic is the engine but Denver features a bevy of scoring threats like Aaron Gordon, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr. This multitude of weapons prevents defenses from focusing solely on Jokic. Denver should have little trouble lighting up the scoreboard against a middling Clippers defense.
LA Clippers Defensive Issues
While the Clippers can score with the best of teams behind George and Leonard, defense has been their Achilles heel recently. On that end, LA ranks a below-average 20th allowing 114 points per game. They also struggle to clean the glass, permitting over 44 boards to opponents per outing.
Making matters worse, starting center Ivica Zubac’s status is uncertain due to a calf strain that’s kept him out four straight contests. His absence leaves the Clippers extremely vulnerable against the size of Jokic and Gordon. Expect the Nuggets to impose their will in the paint on their way to a comfortable win.
NBA Betting Odds: Denver Nuggets -114, Over/Under: 223
Despite the Clippers playing at home, oddsmakers have installed the red-hot Nuggets as narrow 1.5 point chalk. The total sits at a lofty 223.5 points as bookmakers expect an uptempo, offense-oriented matchup between these Western Conference foes.
Trends
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
Denver are 3-9-1 ATS in their last 13 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Denver’s last 5 games.
Denver are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games.
Denver are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games against LA Clippers.
Nuggets are 8-0 SU in their last 8 games against LA Clippers.
Denver are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games on the road.
LA Clippers Betting Trends
LA Clippers are 4-11 ATS in their last 15 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of LA Clippers’ last 11 games.
LA Clippers are 6-3 SU in their last 9 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of LA Clippers’ last 20 games against Denver.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of LA Clippers’ last 6 games at home.
LA Clippers are 1-9 SU in their last 10 games when playing at home against Denver.
Injuries
Nuggets
Aaron Gordon PF Is probable Wednesday vs LA Clippers, Heel
Jamal Murray PG Is “?” Wednesday vs LA Clippers, Ankle
Vlatko Cancar SF Is out indefinitely, Knee
Clippers
Mason Plumlee C Is out indefinitely, MCL
Brandon Boston Jr. SG Is out indefinitely, Quad
Denver vs LA Clippers Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, the Denver Nuggets, despite their less favorable odds, seem to have a slight edge, primarily due to their strong head-to-head record against the Clippers and Jokic’s dominant form. However, the Clippers’ defensive resilience and home court advantage make them a formidable opponent. As for the top sportsbook choices, look for those offering the best odds on these specific bets. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Nuggets 115, Clippers 112.
