Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns 12/1/23 – The Denver Nuggets (13-6) clash with the Phoenix Suns (11-7) in an exciting Western Conference matchup on Friday night. This is drawing significant attention from fans and bettors alike. With both teams vying for a higher standing and the online sportsbook world buzzing with activity, this game is a must-watch for NBA enthusiasts.
| When: | Friday, December 1, 10:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Headed to the desert 🌵 pic.twitter.com/uVc3Bi2cKl
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) December 1, 2023
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuggets | +1.5 -112 | o222.5 -111 | +103 |  |
| Suns | -1.5 -110 | u222.5 -111 | -120 | |
| ||||
Nikola Jokic (C) vs. Kevin Durant (PF)
Reigning back-to-back MVP Nikola Jokic has been putting up video game numbers once again for the Nuggets this season. He’s averaging 28.8 points, 13.4 rebounds and 8.9 assists while shooting 58% from the field. Jokic dominates the game from the center position with his rare combination of scoring, rebounding and playmaking. His ability to take over games gives Denver a chance against any opponent. However, he has struggled on defense and with turnovers at times.
Facing off against Jokic is Kevin Durant, one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. In his first season with Phoenix, Durant is leading the team with 31.4 points per game on nearly 52% shooting. His length, shooting ability and crafty moves off the dribble make him essentially unguardable. While not the distributor Jokic is, Durant still grabs 7 boards and dishes 5.5 assists a night. Health has always been a concern for Durant, but when on the court he’s capable of erupting for 50 on any given night.
This marquee matchup pits the league’s best center against one of the best forwards ever. While they play different positions and styles, both are MVP-caliber players who can single-handedly take over games. Expect plenty of trash talking and elite shot making when these two share the floor on Friday night. Whichever superstar gets the better of this battle could ultimately propel their team to victory.
Denver Nuggets: A Closer Look at the Stats
Denver’s offense has looked just as lethal as last season, ranking 6th in the NBA by scoring 113.1 points per game. Reigning back-to-back MVP Nikola Jokic fuels the attack with his scoring and facilitating, while Jamaal Murray and Aaron Gordon provide secondary scoring. The Nuggets shoot the 3 ball well (36%) and rank 5th in offensive rebounding thanks to Jokic’s dominance on the glass. This unit is extremely difficult to slow down.
Meanwhile, Phoenix owns the NBA’s 9th-best offense, putting up 117.1 points each contest. Durant has made them even more dangerous, while Chris Paul orchestrates the attack and feeds top scorers Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton. The Suns move the ball well (7th in assists) and cash in at the free throw line thanks to high-volume shooters Booker and CP3.
Phoenix Suns: Analyzing the Numbers
Despite their 13-6 record, the Nuggets own just the NBA’s 15th-best defense in terms of efficiency. They’ve been solid defending inside the arc (7th in 2-point defense) but rank 25th at defending the 3 pointer, allowing teams to hit 37% of their attempts from deep. This could be an issue against a Phoenix team that has no shortage of knockdown shooters.
The Suns defense has fallen off a bit after being elite last season, now sitting 20th in defensive rating. However, they’ve limited opponents to just 31% shooting from 3-point range, 2nd best in the league. Mikal Bridges is an elite wing defender capable of giving scorers fits. Overall, Phoenix has enough defensive talent to potentially slow down Denver’s top-tier offense.
NBA Betting Odds: Phoenix Suns ML, Over/Under: –
While the betting odds are yet to be determined, it’s likely that the game will be closely contested. The over/under will be an interesting bet to watch, especially considering the high-scoring nature of both teams.
Trends
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
Denver are 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 games.
Nuggets are 14-6 SU in their last 20 games.
Denver are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games against Phoenix.
Denver are 4-2 SU in their last 6 games against Phoenix.
Nuggets are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games on the road.
Denver are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games when playing on the road against Phoenix.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
Phoenix are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Phoenix’s last 16 games.
Phoenix are 7-1 SU in their last 8 games.
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Phoenix’s last 8 games at home.
Phoenix are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing at home against Denver.
Phoenix are 6-0 SU in their last 6 games against an opponent in the Western Conference conference.
Injuries
Denver Nuggets
Aaron Gordon PF Is “?” Friday vs Phoenix, Heel
Vlatko Cancar SF Is out indefinitely, Knee
Phoenix Suns
Bradley Beal SG Is out indefinitely, Back
Devin Booker SG Injured last game, is “?” Friday vs Denver, Ankle
Damion Lee SG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Grayson Allen SG Is probable Friday vs Denver, Illness
Nassir Little SF Is “?” Friday vs Denver, Personal
Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this game presents a challenging pick. The Nuggets, led by Jokic, have the firepower to challenge the Suns, but Phoenix’s strong home record and Durant’s leadership might give them the edge. For NBA free picks, bettors might consider exploring prop bets on individual performances of Jokic and Durant or the total points scored, given both teams’ offensive prowess.
However, Denver’s recent ATS record against Phoenix and their overall strong SU record cannot be ignored. The key will be whether the Nuggets can overcome their road struggles and whether Jokic can outduel Durant in this high-stakes matchup.
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Score Prediction: Suns 118, Nuggets 112.
