Miami Heat vs. Denver Nuggets is one of the eight matchups being held on Thursday. This contest will be the rematch of last year’s final, where the Nuggets won their first ever title. Miami is currently in great form, having won all their last five games. They are currently in fifth place in the Eastern Conference with a 33-25 record. Meanwhile, Denver is also on fire, winning their last four games. They currently stand in third place in the Western Conference with a 40-19 record.
Preview
The Heat are coming off a 106-96 win over the Portland Trail Blazers. They have been dominant during this road trip. Denver will be their last stop of the six-game stretch. They are currently in great momentum and will be eager to take last year’s final revenge. Meanwhile, the Nuggets are also on their way to win their fifth consecutive match. For them, winning may simply depend on executing the same game plan they have had, as neither team’s core has changed significantly since their last encounter.
Starting lineup
The Miami Heat are dealing with several injuries, but the only player from their starting lineup listed on the injury report is Tyler Herro, who is questionable. If Herro is not available for the game, the expected lineup for the Heat will include Terry Rozier, Duncan Robinson, Jimmy Butler, Caleb Martin and Bam Adebayo.
The Denver Nuggets are expected to start with Jamal Murray, Kentavious Caldwell, Michael Porter, Aaron Gordon and Nikola Jokic.
Betting tips & Prediction
Nikola Jokic’s over/under on assists is 9.5. He has gone beyond that in the last four matches for the Nuggets. In fact, he has recorded four consecutive triple-doubles. Betting on him to go over is definitely the better choice.
Jimmy Butler has an over/under of 19.5 points. He has gone beyond this four times in his last five games. Jimmy is coming into the game highly motivated and looking for revenge. Betting on him to go over will be good.
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The Denver Nuggets are favored to win against the Miami Heat. However, the contest might turn into a tough battle. Miami is rated better defensively at 112.6, but the Nuggets are not far behind with 113.1. Denver has an edge on offense, while Miami is a long way down at 113.4. According to the oddsmakers, the Heat will cover the spread and the total is expected to go over.
