A clash of Western Conference contenders awaits.
The highly anticipated matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets marks one of four NBA games on Thursday, October 24. Set to tip off at 10 p.m. ET at Ball Arena, this game features two Western Conference powerhouses kicking off their regular seasons.
Both teams finished the previous season with impressive 57-25 records, with the Thunder earning the No. 1 seed by winning the season series 3-1 against the Nuggets. While Denver boasts reigning MVP Nikola Jokic, the Thunder feature Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished second in MVP voting last year.
The Thunder are emerging as favorites in the Western Conference, thanks in part to their youthful lineup. Their roster has only strengthened further this offseason with the additions of Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein.
On the other hand, the Nuggets, fresh off their championship run in 2023, still possess one of the league’s most formidable starting fives. They also made waves in the offseason, adding veteran guard Russell Westbrook to their bench.
As we prepare for this eagerly awaited matchup, let us delve into the betting odds, predictions, and picks for the game.
Provided by Covers
Spread (SP): Thunder +2.5 | Nuggets -2.5
Moneyline (ML): Thunder +110 | Nuggets -135
Over/Under (O/U): 225.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)
Last season, Oklahoma City finished with a 52-39-1 record against the spread (ATS), including a 9-8-1 mark as road underdogs. In contrast, Denver recorded a 43-49-2 ATS, with a 22-24-1 record as home favorites.
The Thunder went 47-42-3 on Over bets, hitting the Over in 25 of their 46 road games. Meanwhile, the Nuggets leaned toward the Under, recording 55 unders in 94 games, including a 19-28 mark as home favorites.
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The Nuggets are favored to win at home in their matchup against the Thunder. Although Oklahoma City possesses a deeper roster when healthy, injuries to crucial players—Isaiah Hartenstein (fractured left hand), Jaylin Williams (hamstring), Kenrich Williams (knee), and Nikola Topic (ACL)—could hinder their chances.
This gives Denver the upper hand heading into the game. Anticipate a high-scoring contest, with the combined total expected to exceed 226 points.
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