Denver Nuggets (14-7) vs. LA Clippers (9-10)
The highly anticipated face-off between the Denver Nuggets and the LA Clippers is set to take place on Wednesday promising an intense NBA showdown. With both teams hovering around .500, this game could have key playoff implications down the road. Fans and bettors frequenting top live betting websites, eager to witness this thrilling encounter.
The Nuggets have been excellent this season, riding MVP Nikola Jokic to one of the best records in the NBA. Jokic has put up video game numbers, averaging 29 points, 12.8 rebounds and 9.8 assists per game. His unique versatility as a 7-footer makes Denver a matchup nightmare. The Nuggets can beat you inside and out. One area of concern has been their mediocre 6-8 road record so far.
Meanwhile, the Clippers have been inconsistent but are loaded with talent. Paul George looks healthy again and is averaging 23.5 points per contest. The Clippers can score with anyone when shots are falling, but consistency and defense have been issues. They will need a complete effort to take down the balanced Nuggets. Home court should provide an advantage for the Clippers, as they are 6-3 at Crypto.com arena.
Denver Nuggets vs. LA Clippers Game Info
When: | Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 10:00 PM ET |
Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
TV: | ESPN |
Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Nikola Jokic (C) vs. Paul George (F)
Nikola Jokic has been putting up stats never seen before from a big man. The Serbian center is averaging a triple-double and affirming himself as the best center in the world. Jokic utilizes his high basketball IQ and passing wizardry to pick apart defenses. While not the fleetest of foot, he uses angles and strength to score inside. Jokic will look to control the paint while also stepping out and drilled three-pointers. He seems to always make the right play.
Paul George appears to be back healthy and showcasing the two-way versatility that makes him a perennial All-Star. George has five 30+ point games already by getting buckets from all three levels. He has also locked down on defense, putting his length and quickness to good use. The Clippers will need a big outing from George on both ends to frustrate Jokic and company. His three-point shooting could be the difference-maker.
This matchup will pit Jokic’s size and vision versus George’s athleticism and scoring. Whichever star comes up bigger for his club should help determine the outcome. Jokic dominates the interior, but George’s wingspan hinders opponents. Expect fireworks when these stars clash.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Denver Nuggets -114, Total Odds: 223.5
The current betting odds place the Nuggets slightly ahead, albeit with a close margin. The narrow point spread indicates a highly competitive game, with the odds favoring the Nuggets marginally. Bettors might find value in considering the Nuggets’ strength but should also weigh the Clippers’ home-court advantage.
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
The Nuggets have been mediocre against the spread recently, going just 3-9-1 ATS over their past 13 contests. Road games have given Denver issues covering this year, with a woeful 2-8 ATS record away from Pepsi Center. However, the Nuggets own the Clippers historically, covering six straight meetings with L.A. They are also 8-0 straight up during that span.
LA Clippers Betting Trends
The Clippers have also struggled for bettors, going 4-11 ATS across their last 15. Unders have cashed frequently for L.A. games, hitting in eight of their previous 11 matchups. While the Clippers defend well at home, they have suffered from offensive droughts that keep games low-scoring.
Denver Nuggets vs. LA Clippers 12/6/23 Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and betting trends, this game appears to be a close contest with the Nuggets having a slight edge. The key will be Jokic’s performance and whether the Clippers can counter his influence. However, the Clippers’ home advantage and defensive record suggest a potentially lower-scoring game than expected.
In terms of picks, the Nuggets might be the better team overall, but the Clippers’ home record cannot be ignored. Prop bets on individual player performances, especially on Jokic and George, could be intriguing. The over/under seems to lean towards the under, given the Clippers’ defensive trends at home. An expert NBA pick in this scenario would likely favor a tight game with a possible lower total score.
Free Pick and Prediction: Denver Nuggets 108, LA Clippers 105