NBA Preview: Dallas Mavericks vs. Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets (23-15) and Dallas Mavericks (22-17) will square off for the fourth time this season and for the second consecutive game in a row when the two meet at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas on Tuesday, January 14 at 9:30 PM ET. The Nuggets are favored with a point spread at -4.5 (-110 MyBookie).
Denver Nuggets Betting Preview
The Nuggets have won their last three games and are 7-3 over their last 10. Their latest victory was a 112-101 showing over the Mavs in Dallas, marking their second straight matchup against them in their home arena.
They came out a little flat in the first quarter, as they were down 32-17. The second quarter was much more appealing with a 41-29 performance, but the third quarter was also a little sluggish. However, the Nuggets were able to put together a 33-12 run in the fourth to cap off the win.
Russell Westbrook led with 21 points and contributed 10 rebounds and seven assists. Nikola Jokic almost had a triple-double himself with 19 points, nine assists, and 18 rebounds. Collectively the team shot better than the Mavs did at 48.9 percent and won the rebounding battle with 55 to 37.
The Nuggets are third in the league for points per game, hovering near 120.6. Their defensive effort, however, ranks 24th as they allow teams to get 116.5 points a game.
Dallas Mavericks Betting Preview
The Mavericks have not had a healthy lineup since the latest holidays. As a result, they have gone 3-7 since Christmas Day, which included a five-game losing streak.
They recently had their two-game win streak snapped when they were defeated by the Nuggets. Klay Thompson led with 25 points and six rebounds, while Spencer Dinwiddie had 16 points and 10 rebounds.
Kyrie Irving (24.3 PPG) is still recovering from a disc issue in his back, so he has been ruled out. Dante Exum (7.8 PPG) is estimated to return about the same time as Irving, so the guard depth will suffer. Luka Doncic (28.1 PPG) is expected to be back around early February.
The Mavs are producing the eighth-best offense in the league at 116.4 points a game. On defense they are allowing their opponents to get 111.8 points per game, ranking 14th.
Odds, Series Trends, and Free Pick
MyBookie showcases the best Denver Nuggets vs. Dallas Mavericks betting odds, favoring the Nuggets by 4.5-points. According to market analysis, the Nuggets are favored to win with a 65.5 percent probability.
The Nuggets have won two of the three matchups, with an average winning score of 118 to 114.6. With the Mavs still having a hurt roster, the Nuggets should pull through.
Final Pick: Denver Nuggets -4.5 (-110)
