The second- and third-place teams in the Western Conference hook up in Denver tonight as the Pelicans and Nuggets both go for their fifth wins on the young season. Both teams began the year 4-0 and are coming off their first losses entering tonight’s game with the Nuggets Sportsbook as 7-point favorites. The total opened at 233.5.
- The Pelicans are 1-4 SU and ATS in their last five games vs the Nuggets.
- The total has gone OVER in four of the Pelicans’ last five games (avg. combined score: 244.2).
- The Nuggets are 10-0 SU in their last 10 games at home (avg. winning margin: 10.2).
Pelicans vs Nuggets Game Center
Injuries Could Affect Pelicans at Both Ends of the Floor
The Pelicans lead the NBA in scoring at 124.8 points per game and have seen the OVER hit in four of their first five games, with the one that didn’t hit still having a combined score of 225. As good as their offense has been, their defense has been the opposite, surrendering 119.4 points per game.
Anthony Davis, who leads the team in points, rebounds, steals and blocks, is questionable for tonight with an elbow sprain. Julius Randle, third in team scoring at 16.4 points per game, is probable but is dealing with a foot injury. Elfrid Payton is out with an ankle injury. That’s going to leave a lot of holes in the starting lineup.
Nuggets Have Been Formidable at Pepsi Center
Dating back to last season, Denver has won 10 consecutive games in the Mile High City, including its first three this season. The Nuggets have had their share of success at home against tonight’s opponent too, going 4-1 SU and ATS against New Orleans in the last five meetings at the Pepsi Center.
Not only are the Nuggets winning at home, but they’ve also been covering the spread as they’re 3-0 ATS as the hosts this season and have won their last 10 home games by an average of 10.2 points. Additionally, Denver is 9-3 ATS in New Orleans’ last 12 visits.
My Pick for Tonight
Based on the walking wounded Pelicans team that will take the court tonight, I like the Nuggets -7 as my pick in this game. There’s a great argument there to take the UNDER, too.
Denver has the fifth-ranked team scoring defense in the NBA and with the potential of more than 50 points per game unable to take the floor for the Pelicans, this one could get out of hand in favor of the Nuggets.
