Portland Trail Blazers (15-33) vs. Denver Nuggets (33-16)
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Denver Nuggets 2/4/24 – As the NBA season progresses, the Portland Trail Blazers are set to face off against the Denver Nuggets in a compelling matchup on Sunday. With the Trail Blazers struggling to climb the standings and the Nuggets in a much stronger position, this game presents an interesting challenge for handicapping sports selections.
The Trail Blazers have experienced an unnerving season, as evidenced by their subpar record. On offense they average 108.5 points per game with a 44% field goal percentage; showing some efficiency yet not enough to consistently outscore opponents. Their 3-point shooting has also been strong with 12.1 makes on 34.1 attempts per game for 35.5% accuracy from long range. Defensively they’re pulling down 41.6 rebounds per game and have demonstrated great prowess at creating turnovers with 7.8 steals and 4.6 blocks per game; yet overall their performance has been limited due to 14.1 turnovers plus 20.5 fouls per game averages and 20.5 fouls.
Conversely, the Denver Nuggets have been an impressive force this season, scoring 114.7 points per game on average on 49.4% shooting from the field and boasting an outstanding 3-point shooting percentage of 37% while their free throw shooting (75.1%) still contributes significantly to their scoring totals. Furthermore, they excel in ball movement by dishing out 28.7 assists per game on average and boast 44 rebounds per game, 6.8 steals, 5.3 blocks as well as significantly fewer turnovers (11.6 per game) and fouls (18.8 per game compared to Portland Trail Blazers!
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Denver Nuggets 2/4/24 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, February 4, 2024, at 8:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Ball Arena |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Anfernee Simons (SG) vs. Jamal Murray (PG)
Anfernee Simons has started all 26 games he’s played this season, averaging 33.6 minutes, 22.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 2.5 turnovers per game. He’s scoring efficiently on 44% field goals and 35.5% from three. Though not stuffing the stat sheet in other categories, Simons’ primary role is providing reliable scoring. His high usage could lead to fatigue later in games, along with potential defensive issues guarding quicker players like Murray.
Jamal Murray has put up 21.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.9 turnovers per game over 35 starts. He’s making over half his shots and connects on 37% of threes. Murray has also drastically improved his playmaking this season with a 3.3 assist-to-turnover rate. His versatility as a scorer and distributor keeps the Nuggets offense running smoothly. Murray is also superior defensively, providing 0.8 steals and 0.7 blocks per contest.
While both talented scorers, Murray has shown better all-around contributions than Simons. Murray’s efficient 21.2 point scoring and low turnover playmaking could give Denver an offensive edge. He also provides far better defense than Simons. His two-way impact might be the difference if these talented guards match up Sunday night.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be determined, it’s essential to consider the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. The Nuggets, with their superior record and overall team statistics, are likely to be the favorites. However, the Trail Blazers have shown the ability to compete, especially in close games.
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Trends
The Trail Blazers have gone 3-2 straight up and against the spread over their last 5 matchups. They’ve only gone over the total in 2 of those contests. For away games, Portland is 12-14 against the spread. In their last 22 road matchups, the Blazers have gone over the total 9 times.
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
Over their last 5 games, the Nuggets are 3-2 straight up but just 2-2 against the spread. None of those previous 5 Denver games went over the posted total. For home games this year, the Nuggets have gone over the total in 9 of their 23 contests at Ball Arena. Their high-scoring offense has helped them beat the number at home.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Denver Nuggets 2/4/24 Betting Picks
Due to Denver’s outstanding home record and Portland’s struggles on the road, Denver appears as the safer bet in this matchup. Their balanced offense and disciplined defense should give them an advantage against an opponent which has struggled for consistency.
Prop bettors or over/under bettors considering individual performances – like points scored by Simons and Murray – might add value. Based on current trends, betting on the Nuggets to cover their spread, provided it is reasonable, could also be considered wise. Always take note of final betting lines as well as any breaking news before placing bets.
This prediction leans on Denver’s impressive home performance and overall statistical advantage over Portland. While Portland can keep this game close, Denver should prevail due to their depth and efficiency – thus earning our free expert basketball picks for this matchup.
Free Pick and Prediction: Denver Nuggets 112, Portland Trail Blazers 101.