Denver Nuggets (13-6) vs. Phoenix Suns (11-7)
On Friday night, the Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns will square off in a highly anticipated NBA matchup at the Footprint Center. The Nuggets sitting firmly atop them at 13-6 while Phoenix sits slightly behind at 11-7, so this contest promises an exhilarating mix of skill, strategy, and high-stakes action that cannot be found elsewhere on top online betting platforms.
The Nuggets boast the league’s best offense behind do-it-all center Nikola Jokic, who puts up nearly 29 points, 14 rebounds and nine assists per game. Denver scores with ease both inside and out thanks to Jokic’s versatile skill set. However, they rank just 20th in defensive rating, an area of concern down the stretch.
Phoenix has caught fire since Kevin Durant’s debut, ranking top eight in both offensive and defensive rating over the last two weeks. Durant has infused their offense with 30+ points per game on wild efficiency. Meanwhile, the Suns still defend at an elite clip even with Deandre Ayton’s departure, allowing the third-fewest points per game.
Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns Game Info
| When: | Friday, December 1, 2023 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Nikola Jokic (C) vs. Kevin Durant (PF)
Reigning back-to-back MVP Nikola Jokic has been outstanding once again for the Nuggets this season, averaging a robust 28.8 points, 13.4 rebounds and 8.9 assists per game. He has Denver’s offense humming with his versatile inside-outside scoring ability and next-level court vision as a passer. However, he struggles on the defensive end at times and has had past issues with foul trouble.
Kevin Durant looks rejuvenated in Phoenix this season after an injury-plagued year in Brooklyn, putting up 31.4 points per game on wild efficiency. His unmatched scoring talents give the Suns’ offense a whole new dimension. However, he is also prone to turning the ball over and doesn’t contribute much on the boards or defensive end.
This matchup will pit Jokic’s size and skill against Durant’s athleticism and shot-making. Whichever star can impose his will and lead his team to efficient scoring opportunities will give his side a major edge. But with both liable to erupt offensively on any given night, this duel could swing the game in either direction down the stretch.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Phoenix Suns -1.5, Total Odds: 222.5
Despite Denver’s strong start, oddsmakers have installed Phoenix as slim 1.5-point home favorites. This indicates the betting market believes the Suns’ addition of Durant helps offset any home-court advantage for the Nuggets. The high over/under total of 222.5 suggests oddsmakers expect an up-tempo, high-scoring affair between two talented offensive teams. Bettors may want to consider backing the over in this potential shootout.
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
Denver has struggled against the spread in recent games, going 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 contests. This includes a woeful 1-7 ATS record in their previous 8 road matchups. The Nuggets have certainly been winning games, with a 14-6 straight-up record in their last 20 outings, but covering numbers has proven difficult of late, especially away from the friendly confines of home. Considering those trends, it may not be advisable to back Denver with any spread bets in this road tilt against the Suns.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
Meanwhile, Phoenix has been a covering machine lately, with a 4-1 ATS record over their previous 5 outings. The Suns also play in a lot of high-scoring games, evidenced by the over hitting in 12 of their last 16 matchups. Phoenix has simply found ways to win since integrating Durant into the lineup, with an impressive 7-1 SU record in its last 8 contests. The Suns have also dominated this head-to-head series with Denver at home, owning a 5-1 SU mark in the previous 6 meetings at Footprint Center.
Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns 12/1/2023 Betting Picks
In summary, while the Nuggets have a strong team led by Jokic, the Suns, with Durant at the helm and their impressive home record, seem to have the edge in this matchup. For daily NBA picks, the Suns’ recent ATS trend and home-court advantage make them a compelling pick, while the high-scoring nature of both teams suggests betting on the Over.
