Just over a month ago, Nikola Jokic dropped 27 points along with 13 rebounds to open the 2021-22 NBA season, as he and his Denver Nuggets took their revenge on the Phoenix Suns, who ousted them from the playoffs after four games last year.
From that point on, the Nuggets have remained solid, currently boasting a 9-7 record with standout wins coming against the Dallas Mavericks and Miami Heat. The Suns though? They threw some gasoline onto their slow start, now resembling a raging inferno, winning 11 straight games.
But now, these two teams face off once more, with the Nuggets again traveling to the desert. They might view the Suns as the same team they manhandled earlier this year, but Phoenix surley sees them as just another victim.
Phoenix Suns vs Denver Nuggets Odds, Moneyline, Over/Under
According to WynnBet, the Suns are favored at -8.0 points. Their moneyline odds are at -330, and the over/under is sitting at 209.0 points.
Until Phoenix either loses a game, or faces the Golden State Warriors, bettors should expect them to remain favored in all their games. Winning 11 straight contests just does that for you, not much else too it.
Denver’s recent skid adds to this nod for Phoenix though. Although the Nuggets still carry a winning record, they lost their last three contests by double-digits. With the Suns trending up and the Nuggets trending down, all signs point to a Phoenix win, which Vegas recognizes here.
Phoenix Suns vs Denver Nuggets Lineups
Only with injuries to reserves Frank Kaminsky and Abdel Nader, Phoenix will roll out their usual lineup tonight.
- PG: Chris Paul
- SG: Devin Booker
- SF: Mikal Bridges
- PF: Jae Crowder
- C: Deandre Ayton
Jokic sat out Denver’s last game with a sprained wrist. Head Coach Mike Malone stated that there was “no timeline” for the star big man’s return, but he also noted that he “might” suit up against the Suns. Given this season’s premature state and Jamal Murray’s situation, it makes more sense for the Nuggets proceed cautiously with Jokic, so I expect him to sit out and for Malone to go small ball again.
- PG: Monte Morris
- SG: Austin Rivers
- SF: Will Barton
- PF: Jeff Green
- C: Aaron Gordon
Phoenix Suns vs Denver Nuggets Prediction
Going up against a seemingly unbeatable Phoenix team, in a rocking Footprint Center, and with their MVP wearing street clothes rather than a jersey, this looks like a clear Suns victory, one which they easily cover the -8.0 point spread.
Watch for Deandre Ayton to feast inside with the undersized Aaron Gordon unable to stop him. Devin Booker will have an opportunity to deliver some highlight reel-worthy plays as well with Austin Rivers on him.
Final: Phoenix Suns 122, Denver Nuggets 98
Phoenix Suns Up Next
After tussling with the Nuggets, the Suns begin a four game road trip, starting with a visit in San Antonio to take on the Spurs. Currently sitting with the league’s fourth worst record, the Spurs might give Phoenix their easiest victory across this stretch, should they indeed knock off the Nuggets tonight to keep it going.
San Antonio will also grant the Suns an upfront look at Thaddeus Young for the first time this year, who remains a fan favorite trade option to pursue around the deadline.