The upcoming clash between the Denver Nuggets vs OKC Thunder on January 31, 2024, promises an intriguing NBA matchup. The two teams will face off for the fourth and final time this season, each entering the game with different momentum from their recent performances.
The Denver Nuggets arrive with confidence, securing victories in their last two games, including a notable 113-107 win against the Milwaukee Bucks. With five wins in their last six games and seven in their last nine, the Nuggets are showcasing strong form.
Contrastingly, the OKC Thunder have faced setbacks, losing their last two games, most recently falling to the Minnesota Timberwolves with a scoreline of 107-101.
Denver Nuggets vs. OKC Thunder: Key Betting Information
Moneyline: Nuggets (-105) vs. Thunder (-115)
Spread: Nuggets +1.0 (-110) vs. Thunder -1.0 (-110)
Total (O/U): 229.0
Preview and Past Encounters: This marks the fourth meeting between the Denver Nuggets and the OKC Thunder this season. The Thunder currently lead the series 2-1, presenting an opportunity to secure the regular-season series at home. Notably, the road teams have been victorious in the previous three matchups.
The first encounter saw the Nuggets dominating the Thunder with a 128-95 victory on October 30 in Oklahoma City. The Thunder responded with a narrow 118-117 win on December 17 in Denver and extended their series lead with a convincing 119-93 victory on December 30 in Denver.
Starting Lineups and Injury Updates: Uncertainty surrounds the availability of Nikola Jokic for the Nuggets due to lower back pain, listed as “questionable.” Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, an All-Star starter for the Thunder, is also listed as “questionable” due to illness following a 37-point performance.
With potential absences, Kenrich Williams could start for the Thunder, while Isaiah Joe may replace Gilgeous-Alexander. DeAndre Jordan may step in for Jokic if the latter sits out. The expected starting lineups include Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr., Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Jamal Murray for the Nuggets.
Key Players and Betting Tips: While Nikola Jokic remains a focal point, Jamal Murray’s impressive 35-point performance against the Bucks demands attention. Josh Giddey could deliver noteworthy stats if Gilgeous-Alexander sits out, pending the final injury report.
Betting strategies should consider the final status of Gilgeous-Alexander’s sickness, as it could impact the game’s outcome. The Nuggets, currently at -105, and the Thunder, at -115, present a close matchup, with the Thunder being slight favorites at -1.0 in the spread.
Predictions: The betting line initially favored the Thunder, but the close nature of the matchup suggests both teams are at negative levels. Monitoring Gilgeous-Alexander’s status is crucial, and if ruled out, betting on the Nuggets is recommended.
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