NBA Preview: Denver Nuggets vs. Sacramento Kings – Monday, Dec. 16, 2024

The Denver Nuggets (13-10) and Sacramento Kings (13-13) both have winning streaks on the line when they face off on Monday, December 16 at 10:00 PM ET at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. Current NBA betting odds show the Kings favored with a point spread at -1.0 (-105).

Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

The Nuggets have found success in their last two games and are 3-2 over their last five. In their most recent battle, they defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 120-98. While they averaged 30 points a quarter here, they had a 19-point second quarter that required them to make a bigger impact in the second half.

Which they did, as they had 35 and 39 points, respectively, in the third and fourth quarters. Nikola Jokic had a somewhat quiet night with 16 points, while Jamal Murray led the team with 20.

Their strong performance in the later half of the game set them apart from the Clippers. They shot 54.5 percent overall from the field and 34.5 percent from deep. They allowed the Clippers to average 44.6 percent from the field and about the same as the Nuggets from three.

Offensively, the Nuggets have done a great job at producing 118.7 points a game and rank fourth in the league. Their defense could be better, as they rank 22nd in allowing 116.0 points from opposing teams. If they can fine tune their defense back to what it used to be, they should be in good shape.

Sacramento Kings Betting Preview

The Kings are seeking their fourth-straight win and have been playing exceptionally well on the offensive end. Their last win was a 111-109 outing over the New Orleans Pelicans. Over their last three wins though, they are averaging 130.6 points a game.

Against the Pelicans, Domantas Sabonis had one of the best games you will likely see all year with 32 points, 73.3 percent shooting from the field, perfect on all nine free throws, and had 20 rebounds. DeMar DeRozan followed behind with 29 points to help push the offense.

They were able to pull away with a strong 38-point third quarter performance, which marked the only quarter for either team to have above 30 points in any quarter. The Pelicans were close to winning this game, especially since they shot 47.0 percent from the field and the Kings made 40.2 percent of their shots.

The Kings are averaging 116.2 points a game and rank eighth, while they allow 113.0 points a game from opponents and rank 15th. This is another close margin with little room for error.

Odds, Series Trends, and Free Pick

MyBookie has appealing NBA betting odds for the Denver Nuggets vs. Sacramento Kings matchup. Market analysis shows that the game is potentially a toss up, with the Nuggets having a 50.5 percent chance to win. The Kings have a great opportunity to win at home and cover the spread.

Final Pick: Sacramento Kings -1.0 (-105)