Nuggets vs Suns: A Christmas Clash—Predictions and Best Bets for the NBA Showdown!
2024-12-26
Author: Liam
Game Prediction and Key Bet
When it comes to star performances, all eyes will be on Denver's Nikola Jokic. Expect him to excel from three-point range as the Nuggets take on the Suns.
Best Bet: Nikola Jokic Over 1.5 Three-Pointers (-170 at Bet365)
It’s hard to argue against the extraordinary talent of Nikola Jokic, a centerpiece of the Nuggets' offense. The reigning MVP is having yet another stellar season, boasting jaw-dropping averages of 30.9 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 9.7 assists per game. Let’s not forget his impressive 51.4% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc.
Although Jokic doesn’t take a high volume of three-point shots, his effectiveness makes him a dangerous player. He is currently hitting a career-best 2.3 three-pointers on just 4.5 attempts per game. In recent matchups, he has eyed the Over on three-pointers in five of his last six games, including a solid 4-for-6 performance against the Suns on Monday.
Given his current form and the fact that he’s rarely stayed under 1.5 made threes lately, it seems almost inevitable for Jokic to drain at least two long-range shots tonight.
Suns Players to Watch
On the other end of the court, Kevin Durant remains the focal point for the Suns, averaging 27.1 points while shooting 42% from three-point territory. However, with Devin Booker sidelined due to groin soreness, Durant’s scoring burden has increased. Still, his recent performance against the Nuggets was a mixed bag—he failed to meet the Over on points in their last encounter and has only surpassed 31 points in two of his last ten games. So, while he’ll be impactful, he may not reach that lofty scoring benchmark again.
Don’t overlook Nikola Jokic's dual-threat capability; he recently put up 32 points in a win over the Suns. His consistency this season makes him a key player to back for the Over on points, especially with the stakes high on Christmas Day.
Latest Odds and Betting Trends
- Spread: Denver +1.5 (-115) | Phoenix -1.5 (-105) - Moneyline: Denver -105 | Phoenix -115 - Over/Under: Over 227.5 (-110) | Under 227.5 (-110) Both teams have struggled against the spread this season. Denver holds a record of 11-15 ATS, while the Suns are even worse at 9-19 ATS. In their recent meetings, the Under has been profitable, hitting in five of the last six games played between these two teams.
How to Watch
Catch all the action tonight and see if Nikola Jokic can continue his remarkable form in this high-stakes showdown. Can he lead the Nuggets to another win against the Suns? Don’t miss out on this thrilling matchup to close out your Christmas day!
With the Suns struggling with injuries and Jokic finding his rhythm, expect a fiercely contested game that could go either way. Be sure to take note of the latest injuries and adjust your bets accordingly.
This is definitely a matchup you won’t want to miss!