Uncertainty Surrounds Nikola Jokic's Availability as Trail Blazers Look to Capitalize on Recent Momentum in Opening Game Against Denver Nuggets

Game outlook

On Friday, February 2, the 2023-24 NBA season will feature a game between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. This matchup holds significance as it marks the opening game of their four-game regular-season series. The Nuggets are currently on a three-game winning streak against the Trail Blazers, while the latter has struggled to cover the spread in their last six road games against Denver. Furthermore, Denver has been designated as the betting favorite with an opening line of -11.5, which has remained unchanged.

Betting Odds

Moneyline: Trail Blazers +500 | Nuggets -733

Spread: Trail Blazers +11.5 (-110) | Nuggets -11.5 (-110)

Total: Over/Under 221 (-110)

Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Denver will win straight-up is 88%.

Portland Trail Blazers

The Portland Trail Blazers have won their last two games and are heading to Denver in search of a third victory. In their recent game against the Milwaukee Bucks, the Trail Blazers made 53.3% of their field goals and had six players score in double digits. They currently have the second-lowest offensive rating in the NBA and rank 26th in opposing field goal percentage. On the offensive end, the Trail Blazers shoot an average of 43.96% from the field and 35.45% from three-point range. They also average 41.58 rebounds per game and have 22.67 offensive assists. Defensively, they allow opponents to shoot 49.45% from the field and 33.95% from three-point range. They average 44.54 defensive rebounds per game and have 27.52 defensive assists. The clutchest of them all 🔥🐜 ▫️ 24 PTS ▫️ 4 3PM ▫️ 5 AST pic.twitter.com/JKIm0sJlIu