Los Angeles Clippers vs
Denver NuggetsPredictions & Preview

Nuggets Favored by 2.5 Points in First-Round Playoff Matchup Against Clippers

This summary provides a preview of the upcoming Western Conference first-round matchup between the 5th-seeded Clippers and the 4th-seeded Nuggets. The game is scheduled for Saturday afternoon and both teams finished with identical records, with the Nuggets holding the tiebreaker. Denver is favored to win by 2.5 points according to betting odds. For more insights and predictions on this game and other NBA matchups, continue reading.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Clippers +118 | Nuggets -138
• Spread: Clippers +2.5 (-110) | Nuggets -2.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 224.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Denver will win straight-up is 58%.

Los Angeles vs Denver Stats

Los Angeles Clippers

The Los Angeles Clippers have secured a spot in the Western Conference playoffs with a veteran-heavy roster. Despite the departure of Paul George last offseason, the team won 50 games this season. James Harden led the team in scoring and assists, while Ivica Zubac led in rebounds. Kawhi Leonard will be fully healthy for the playoffs after a limited season. The Clippers finished with a strong eight-game winning streak and ranked 20th in points per game in the league. Defensively, they excelled, ranking fourth in points allowed per game and in field goal and 3-point defense. Key injuries include game-time decisions for Seth Lundy, Patty Mills, and Nicolas Batum. The team is ranked 20th in offense, fourth in defense, and has a 50-32 record. Offensively, they rank highly in field goal percentage, free throw percentage, and three-point shooting. Defensively, they excel in field goal and three-point defense. They also have solid rebounding and assist numbers.

Denver Nuggets Analysis

The Denver Nuggets made significant changes at the end of the season, parting ways with head coach Michael Malone and making moves to address underperformance since winning the NBA title two seasons ago. Despite winning 50 games, the team struggled defensively and lacked consistency from most players, aside from MVP candidate Nikola Jokic. Jokic achieved a rare triple-double average for the season. The team closed out the regular season strong, earning the fourth seed and splitting the series with the Clippers. Offensively, the Nuggets excelled in scoring, field goal shooting, and rebounding, but struggled with three-point shooting. Defensively, they struggled in points allowed, three-point defense, and defensive rebounds. The Nuggets are ranked 20th in power ranking, with a strong offense but weaker defense. In their last matchups against the Clippers, they went 2-1.

Nuggets Supporting Cast Key to Victory Against Clippers in Playoff Series

The outcome of this series may hinge on the Nuggets' ability to achieve consistent performances from their supporting cast, aside from Jokic, in contrast to the Clippers' reliance on Leonard and Harden. Jokic has had an exceptional season, but he will need assistance from his teammates. Murray has not matched his playoff performance from the previous year, but he has the potential to shine in this series, particularly against defensively-challenged Harden. Harden has struggled in the playoffs and is shooting just 41 percent from the floor, despite averaging over 22 points per game. Leonard, who played limited minutes this season, remains a wildcard in the series. Porter and Gordon could pose challenges for Leonard on both offense and defense. Additionally, Jokic's ability to operate away from the basket could neutralize Zubac's rebounding skills. The Nuggets are expected to come out strong in game one, giving them an advantage in this series. It is advised to consider taking the Nuggets with a -2.5 point spread.

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