NBA Champions Nuggets Favored Over Pacers in Upcoming Clash
The Denver Nuggets, crowned the 2022/23 NBA champions, are set to face off against the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The game, which starts at 7:00 p.m. ET, sees Denver entering as the favorites by a 5-point margin.
Nuggets' Strong Season Continues
The Nuggets have been performing well this season with a record of 30-14, positioning them third in the Western Conference. Their success is further underscored by their recent form; they have won four of their last five games and are seeking their third consecutive road win. With an impressive seven wins out of their last ten games, Denver's consistency has been key to their current standing.
Pacers Facing Challenges
The Pacers, although they've had a respectable season with a 24-19 record and sit seventh in the Eastern Conference, have hit a rough patch recently, losing four of their last five games. However, their home record offers a glimmer of hope, having won five of their last six at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Despite this, they have struggled on the road, winning only two of their last six away games. The Pacers will be looking to bounce back from a recent defeat to the Phoenix Suns, where they fell 117-110.
Player Updates and Team Matchup
Denver's Nikola Jokic, who scored a staggering 42 points along with 12 rebounds and eight assists against the Washington Wizards, continues to be a dominant force. He ranks 13th in points per game with 26.1 and is fourth in the league for both rebounds and assists. Jamal Murray, averaging 20.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 6.5 assists, alongside Jokic, forms a formidable duo that the Pacers will need to contain.
The Pacers have concerns over Tyrese Haliburton, who is questionable for the upcoming game due to a hamstring issue. Isaiah Jackson and Andrew Nembhard are also doubtful for Indiana, which could impact their depth. On the other hand, Pascal Siakam, since joining from the Toronto Raptors, has made his presence felt by scoring 21 points in his debut against the Portland Trail Blazers.
For Denver, Vlatko Cancar, Collin Gillespie, Braxton Key, and Julian Strawther are sidelined due to injuries. Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon, however, are probable to play. In their previous encounter with the Pacers earlier this month, the Nuggets emerged victorious with a 117-109 scoreline, where Jokic, Murray, and Porter each contributed 25 points, and Gordon added 20.
Betting Odds and Statistics
Despite Denver's less than stellar ATS (against the spread) record this season at 19-24-1, they cover 44.2% of their games. Interestingly, after a win, their ATS percentage dips to 35.7%. Moreover, their road ATS record stands at 8-15-0. As away favorites, Denver covers one-third of the time, but with their average margin of victory sitting at five, they could potentially cover the spread in the upcoming match.
On the other side, the Pacers have a stronger ATS record for the 2023/24 season at 24-18-2, covering 60% of their home games. When playing as home underdogs, their ATS record is even more impressive at 5-2. Bet Rivers has priced the Nuggets at -175 on the moneyline, indicating confidence in their ability to secure a win.
Historical Head-to-Head
History favors the Nuggets, who have beaten the Pacers in their last seven meetings. Indiana hasn't managed to overcome Denver since 2020 and has lost their last four home games against them.
In conclusion, while the Pacers have shown resilience at home, the Nuggets' strong season performance and individual talents like Jokic and Murray make them the team to beat. The upcoming clash promises to be an exciting contest as Denver looks to continue their dominance over Indiana, and the Pacers aim to upset the champions and reverse their recent fortunes.
