Nuggets Aim for Third Straight Road Win Against Pacers
The Denver Nuggets, reigning NBA champions from the 2022/23 season, are set to face off against the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The action is scheduled to tip-off at 7:00 p.m. ET, with Denver entering the game as favorites by a 5-point margin.
Nuggets' Strong Season Continues
Sporting a solid 30-14 record, the Nuggets sit comfortably third in the Western Conference. Their performance has been consistent, winning four of their last five games and aiming for their third consecutive road win. Their success can be attributed to the stellar play of Nikola Jokic, who recently dominated with a 42-point, 12-rebound, and eight-assist performance against the Washington Wizards. The synergy between Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr., who each dropped 25 points in their last meeting with the Pacers, alongside Aaron Gordon's 20 points, underscores Denver's multifaceted offensive threat.
Pacers Looking to Rebound
The Pacers, with a 24-19 record, hold the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference. Despite their recent struggles, losing four of their last five games, they have shown resilience on their home court, winning five of their last six at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. However, Indiana faces injury concerns; Tyrese Haliburton is questionable due to a hamstring issue, while Isaiah Jackson and Andrew Nembhard are doubtful. These potential absences could hinder their ability to snap a seven-game losing streak against the Nuggets.
Injury Report and Probable Returns
Denver will be without Vlatko Cancar, Collin Gillespie, Braxton Key, and Julian Strawther due to injuries. However, there's good news for Nuggets fans as Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon are listed as probable. For Indiana, the health status of key players could significantly impact their game plan, especially considering Haliburton did not play in the previous matchup against Denver.
Betting Odds and Statistics
Bet Rivers has placed the Nuggets at -175 on the moneyline, reflecting confidence in the defending champions. The total for the game is set at O/U 239. Statistically, Denver's Against The Spread (ATS) record this season stands at 19-24-1, covering 44.2% of their games. Their ATS percentage dips to 35.7% following a win, and their road ATS record is 8-15-0. As away favorites, the Nuggets have only covered one-third of the time, despite their average margin of victory being five points.
In contrast, the Pacers have a more favorable ATS record for the 2023/24 season at 24-18-2, covering 60% of their home games. When cast as home underdogs, their ATS record improves to 5-2. These statistics suggest that while Denver may be favored to win, Indiana could outperform expectations when it comes to the spread.
Player Highlights
Jokic continues to be a dominant force, ranking 13th in points per game with an average of 26.1 and standing fourth in the league for rebounds and assists. Murray contributes with an average of 20.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. For Indiana, Haliburton leads the team in points per game and assists, though his participation remains uncertain.
The Pacers also bolstered their lineup with the addition of Pascal Siakam from the Toronto Raptors, who scored 21 points in his debut against the Portland Trail Blazers. His presence adds another layer to Indiana's offense, which could prove pivotal in their quest to overcome recent struggles against Denver.
Historical Context
Denver has had the upper hand in recent history, defeating the Pacers in their last seven encounters, including a 117-109 victory earlier this month. Indiana's last triumph over the Nuggets dates back to 2020, and they have lost their last four home games against them.
Final Thoughts
While the Nuggets may not have the strongest ATS record this season, their average margin of victory aligns with the spread, indicating they could cover. With multiple scoring threats like Porter and Gordon, and the ever-dominant Jokic, Denver showcases a well-rounded offense. Meanwhile, the Pacers, despite their recent home game successes and strong ATS record as underdogs, will need to address their injury concerns and find a way to contain Denver's offensive arsenal to secure a much-needed victory.
