San Antonio Spurs vs Denver Nuggets is one of the top matchups on a loaded NBA slate for Friday. The game will feature two of the game's top big men in Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama.
After securing his third MVP last year, Jokic continues to be the most impactful player in the league. He's managed to somehow increase his production, posting averages of 30.7 points, 13.0 rebounds and 9.7 assists per game. On top of these impressive numbers, Jokic is also shooting 49.2% from beyond the arc.
As for Wembanyama, he is by far the most interesting star in the league. The Spurs big man is the front-runner for Defensive Player of the Year and has increased his production on the offensive end as well. Wemby enters Friday's matchup with averages of 25.6 points, 10.0 rebounds and 3.9 blocks.
This game marks the first of three meetings between these two teams. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:00 pm Eastern Time.
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San Antonio Spurs vs Denver Nuggets: Prediction, odds and betting tips
Here is a breakdown of what the odds look like heading into this matchup between the Spurs and Nuggets.
Spread: Spurs +6.5 (-110) vs Nuggets -6.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Spurs (+205) vs Nuggets (-250)
Over/Under: Over 237.5 (-110) vs Under 237.5 (-110)
*Editor's Note: Betting odds are subject to change close to tip-off*
San Antonio Spurs vs Denver Nuggets preview
Despite the Western Conference being so competitive this season, the Spurs have managed to work their way into the playoff picture. Currently, they sit in 10th place with a 17-16 record.
San Antonio has been up-and-down as of late, going 2-2 over their last four games. That said, they will be entering Friday with some positive momentum as they are riding high off a win over the LA Clippers.
Of these two teams, Denver will be coming in with much more momentum. Following their victory over the Atlanta Hawks Wednesday, the Nuggets are winners of three straight.
Led by the strong play of Jokic, the Nuggets enter Friday in fourth place in the West at 19-13.
San Antonio Spurs vs Denver Nuggets predicted starting fives
Spurs
PG - Chris Paul, SG - Devin Vassell, SF - Harrison Barnes, PF - Jeremy Sochan, C - Victor Wembanyama
Nuggets
PG - Jamal Murray, SG - Russell Westbrook, SF - Christian Braun, PF - Michael Porter Jr., C- Nikola Jokic
San Antonio Spurs vs Denver Nuggets betting tips
This matchup is regarding the odds, as it could go multiple ways. The Spurs are one of the few teams with someone who has the capability of slowing down Jokic.
Between the defensive streak Wembanyama is on and the Spurs arguably having more firepower, San Antonio might be the safer bet. Taking their moneyline might be risky, but they certainly have a chance to keep things close and cover the spread.
San Antonio Spurs vs Denver Nuggets prediction
With Aaron Gordon still out, the Nuggets are deploying a very small lineup. If San Antonio can capitalize on their size advantage, they should be able to pull off an upset.
It will take a strong defensive outing from Wembanyama, but the Spurs are going to take down the Nuggets on their home floor. Jokic's brilliance won't be enough to overcome them being shorthanded against this competitive young squad.
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