Denver Nuggets (10-5) vs. Houston Rockets (7-6)
Denver Nuggets vs. Houston Rockets 11/24/23 – The Denver Nuggets (10-5) face the Houston Rockets (7-6) in an interconference clash, showcasing the talents of Nikola Jokic and Alperen Sengun. Both teams boast impressive recent records, with the Nuggets winning 8 of their last 10 and the Rockets riding a 5-game winning streak. As the playoff seeding hangs in the balance, anticipate a fierce battle between these Western Conference contenders. NBA winning picks for today lean towards the Nuggets, but the surging Houston Rockets on their home court pose a formidable challenge. For expert insights, turn to the best betting apps for NBA to enhance your predictions and maximize the excitement of this matchup.
Denver Nuggets vs. Houston Rockets 11/24/23 Game Info
| When: | Friday, November 24, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Toyota Center |
| TV: | — |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Nikola Jokic (C) vs. Alperen Sengun (C)
Nikola Jokic has firmly inserted himself in the MVP discussion once again, averaging a robust 27.5 points, 13.1 rebounds and 8.9 assists per game. The versatile center has Denver’s offense running like a well-oiled machine. However, his lackluster defense coupled with a high turnover rate remain issues for the Nuggets.
Meanwhile, second-year big man Alperen Sengun has broken out for the Rockets this season. Sengun is averaging 20.2 points, 8.6 rebounds and 5.5 assists while anchoring Houston’s young core. Still, his defensive deficiencies and proclivity for foul trouble could spell trouble against the crafty Jokic.
This marquee matchup of elite playmaking centers will heavily influence the outcome. If Jokic dominates the paint on both ends, the Nuggets’ odds go way up. But if Sengun can match him basket for basket without fouling out, Houston has a fighting chance on their home court.
Flying High: Denver’s Offensive Efficiency
The Nuggets have the NBA’s 4th-ranked offense, scoring 113.6 points per game on 49.7% shooting. Jokic runs the show to perfection, while Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. provide ample scoring support. Denver also crashes the offensive glass well and ranks 6th in assists per game. This multi-dimensional attack should thrive against Houston’s 21st-ranked defense.
Rolling Rookies: Houston’s Youth Movement
The Rockets have fully embraced their rebuild, empowering rookies Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason with prominent roles. The young trio have energized Houston on both ends, driving their 5-game win streak. If Green and Smith get hot from deep and Eason wreaks havoc defensively, the Rockets could very well shock the Nuggets.
NBA Betting Odds: Denver Nuggets -150, Over/Under: 216.5
Despite playing on the road, the Nuggets open as modest -150 favorites. However, Houston’s perfect 7-0 home record coupled with Denver’s 0-6 away record against the spread evens this matchup. The over/under sits at 216.5 total points. Expect a close game that stays under the total.
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
Denver are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Denver’s last 18 games.
Denver are 13-5 SU in their last 18 games.
Denver are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games against Houston.
Nuggets are 10-2 SU in their last 12 games against Houston.
Denver are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games on the road.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
Houston are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Houston’s last 7 games.
Houston are 7-3 SU in their last 10 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Houston’s last 6 games against Denver.
Houston are 7-0 SU in their last 7 games at home.
Houston are 14-4 SU in their last 18 games when playing at home against Denver.
Denver Nuggets vs. Houston Rockets Betting Picks
Despite Denver’s road woes, the Nuggets still have the talent advantage behind MVP frontrunner Jokic. Meanwhile, Houston’s youth and inexperience will inevitably rear its ugly head. Expect Jokic and Murray to exploit the Rockets’ suspect interior defense for a comfortable Nuggets win and cover. The under also hits with both teams playing stingier defense lately. The USA top sportsbook see plenty of value backing road favorites Denver laying the small number.
Score Prediction: Nuggets 110, Rockets 101.
