Denver Nuggets vs
New Orleans PelicansPredictions & Preview

Denver Nuggets Look to Extend Winning Streak Against Struggling New Orleans Pelicans in NBA Cup Matchup

The Denver Nuggets will face off against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center in a NBA Cup matchup early in the regular season. The Nuggets are on a five-game winning streak, with a 7-3 record, while the Pelicans are on a six-game losing streak with a record of 3-9. Denver is the betting favorite, opening at -8.5 but currently at -4.5. This is the first of four games between these teams, so it will be interesting to see which side comes out on top in this matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Nuggets -190 | Pelicans +165
• Spread: Nuggets -4.5 (-110) | Pelicans +4.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 220 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Denver will win straight-up is 66%.

Denver vs New Orleans Stats

Denver Nuggets

The Denver Nuggets recently secured a 122-120 home win against the Dallas Mavericks with center Nikola Jokic excelling with 37 points, 18 rebounds, and 15 assists. The team needs to improve defensively as they allowed the Mavericks to shoot 53.3% from the field. The New Orleans Pelicans have been strong offensively but struggle defensively, ranking 25th in points allowed. In terms of statistics, the Nuggets are 4th in power rankings with impressive offensive numbers but defense remains a concern. Key players including Aaron Gordon and Vlatko Cancar are listed as questionable for upcoming games.

New Orleans Pelicans Analysis

The New Orleans Pelicans are currently struggling both offensively and defensively, ranking last in the NBA in scoring and near the bottom in shooting percentages. Despite a recent loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, there were some defensive highlights in holding the Thunder to a team shooting split. The team is facing multiple injuries, including key players like Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum. With a power ranking of 23, the Pelicans will need to improve their offensive performance and overcome injuries in order to potentially secure an upset victory in their next game.

Denver Nuggets Favored to Win Game Against New Orleans Pelicans Due to Injuries and Statistical Advantage

Due to the significant injuries affecting both teams, the outcome of this game appears to be more predictable. Based on the current net ratings, it is evident that Denver is performing better than New Orleans. The Denver Nuggets hold the 12th position in the NBA with a +2.7 net rating, whereas the New Orleans Pelicans are ranked 28th with a -10.6 net rating. An essential factor in determining the outcome of the game is the ability to defend the 3-point line. Denver ranks 12th in the league in defending against the 3-point shot, holding opposing teams to a 35.4% percentage, while New Orleans is ranked 29th with a 38.8% 3-point percentage against them. Taking into consideration these statistics, it is recommended to choose the Denver Nuggets to cover the spread at their home court.

Sources: [ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 3 ]