Denver Nuggets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 31/03/2024, 03:30  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 31/03/2024 at 04:27 in NBA Predictions

The Denver Nuggets will play host to the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Ball Arena in the NBA on Sunday night. The hosts are 51-23 and third in the Western Conference, while the visitors are 45-29 and third in the Eastern Conference. 

The Cleveland Cavaliers are trailing by 1.5 games for the top spot in the division and have faced some challenges lately, losing seven of their last 11 games overall. However, they managed to secure a narrow 117-114 home victory against the 76ers on Friday. Georges Niang played a significant role, leading the team with 25 points off the bench, while Evan Mobley contributed 20 points along with 11 rebounds and two blocks. Cleveland's offense ranks 19th in the NBA, averaging 112.7 points per game, while Denver boasts the seventh-best defense, allowing just 109.9 points per game. Defensively, the Cavaliers are solid, conceding 109.4 points per game, ranking fifth in the league. They tend to give up slightly more points when playing on the road compared to at home, with an average difference of 1.7 points. The Cavaliers have struggled on the road recently, going 1-4 in their last five away games, including losses to Minnesota and Miami. They have only managed to cover the spread once in that span. Additionally, the Cavaliers have five players listed as doubtful for upcoming games.

The Denver Nuggets have been performing well recently, winning nine of their last 12 games overall. However, they aim to halt a potential three-game losing streak after suffering a heavy 111-98 defeat against the Timberwolves on Friday. Nikola Jokic led the team with an impressive performance, scoring 32 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out five assists, while Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. each contributed 14 points. In terms of scoring, the Nuggets rank 14th in the NBA, averaging 114.4 points per game, while the Cavaliers boast a strong defense, ranking fifth in points allowed per game with 109.4. Defensively, the Nuggets allow 109.9 points per game, placing them seventh overall in the league. They tend to give up slightly more points on the road compared to playing at home, with an average difference of 1.7 points. Nikola Jokic is listed as doubtful for the upcoming match.