The Denver Nuggets, the reigning 2022/23 NBA champions, are set to face off against the Indiana Pacers this Tuesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The matchup is scheduled for a 7:00 p.m. ET tip-off, with Denver entering the contest as the favorites by a 5-point margin.
Season Standings and Betting Odds
The Nuggets' impressive record stands at 30-14, placing them third in the Western Conference, while the Pacers hold a 24-19 record, securing the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference. The game's total is set at an over/under (O/U) of 239 points. Despite their status as defending champions, the Nuggets have an Against The Spread (ATS) record of 19-24-1 this season, covering only 44.2% of their games. After a win, their ATS percentage dips even further to 35.7%. On the road, Denver's ATS record falls to 8-15-0. However, their average margin of victory aligns with the spread, suggesting they could cover the -5 line.
Conversely, the Pacers have a more favorable ATS record of 24-18-2 for the 2023/24 season, covering 60% of their home games and boasting a strong 5-2 record as home underdogs. Bet Rivers has priced the Nuggets at -175 on the moneyline, reflecting confidence in the visiting team despite the Pacers' resilience at home.
Recent Form and Head-to-Head
Both teams enter the game with contrasting recent forms; the Pacers have lost four of their last five games, whereas the Nuggets have won four out of their last five. Denver is also seeking their third consecutive road win. The Pacers, although struggling lately, have managed to secure victories in five of their last six home games. However, they were defeated by the Phoenix Suns 117-110 in their most recent outing and have only won two of their last six road games.
Historically, the Nuggets have dominated recent matchups against the Pacers, winning seven straight meetings. They continued this trend earlier this month with a 117-109 victory. Notably, the Pacers have not been able to overcome the Nuggets since 2020, losing their last four home encounters against them.
Injury Reports and Player Performances
Player availability could play a significant role in the upcoming game. Tyrese Haliburton is listed as questionable for Indiana due to a hamstring issue, and teammates Isaiah Jackson and Andrew Nembhard are doubtful. For the Nuggets, Vlatko Cancar, Collin Gillespie, Braxton Key, and Julian Strawther are sidelined, while Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon are probable to play.
Nikola Jokic remains a standout performer for Denver, having racked up 42 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists against the Washington Wizards in his latest display. He ranks 13th in points per game with an average of 26.1 and sits fourth in the league for both rebounds and assists. Jamal Murray also contributes significantly, averaging 20.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. In their previous encounter with the Pacers, Jokic, Murray, and Porter each tallied 25 points, with Aaron Gordon adding 20 points.
On the Pacers' side, Haliburton leads the team in points per game and assists. Additionally, Pascal Siakam, who joined from the Toronto Raptors, scored 21 points in his debut against the Portland Trail Blazers, indicating his potential impact for Indiana.
Analyst Insights
Sports analysts acknowledge that the Nuggets have struggled ATS this season but believe their average 5-point margin of victory might be enough to cover the spread in the upcoming game. With Jokic's consistent performance and the scoring support from players like Murray, Porter, and Gordon, Denver showcases its ability to score from multiple areas on the court. This depth could prove critical against a Pacers team that has shown vulnerability in recent games.
As the game approaches, all eyes will be on how both teams manage their lineups and adjust their strategies to claim victory. With the Nuggets aiming to extend their winning streak against the Pacers and Indiana looking to defend their home court and reverse their fortunes, Tuesday night's clash promises to be an intriguing battle between two competitive sides.