Current Standing
The Nuggets boast an impressive 30-14 record, positioning them third in the Western Conference, while the Pacers hold a 24-19 tally, good for seventh in the Eastern Conference. Despite their underdog status, Indiana has shown resilience on their home court, winning five of their last six games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Recent Performances
Both teams have experienced contrasting fortunes in their recent matchups. The Nuggets have been on a roll, claiming victory in four of their last five games and seeking their third straight road win. Conversely, the Pacers have stumbled, losing four of their last five contests, including a recent defeat to the Phoenix Suns, where they fell 117-110.
Injury Report
Player availability could play a significant role in the upcoming game. Tyrese Haliburton's presence on the court is uncertain due to a hamstring issue, while Isaiah Jackson and Andrew Nembhard are also doubtful for Indiana. Denver will be without Vlatko Cancar, Collin Gillespie, Braxton Key, and Julian Strawther, but Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon are likely to play, being listed as probable.
Previous Encounters
History favors the Nuggets, who have outperformed the Pacers in their last seven meetings, including a 117-109 victory earlier this month. During that game, Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Porter each contributed 25 points, while Aaron Gordon added 20 points to the tally. Notably, Haliburton did not participate in the previous encounter against Denver.
Despite the Pacers' struggles against the Nuggets, having not secured a win since 2020 and losing their last four home games to Denver, their ATS (Against The Spread) record for the 2023/24 season stands strong at 24-18-2. In contrast, Denver's ATS record is less stellar at 19-24-1, covering only 44.2% of their games. Following a win, this percentage drops further to 35.7%, and their road ATS record sits at 8-15-0.
Statistical Leaders
Jokic continues to be a dominant force in the league, ranking 13th in points per game with an average of 26.1 and placing fourth in both rebounds and assists. Murray is also contributing significantly, averaging 20.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. For Indiana, Haliburton leads the team in points per game and assists. Additionally, Pascal Siakam, a new addition from the Toronto Raptors, made an immediate impact by scoring 21 points in his debut against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Betting Odds
With Bet Rivers setting the moneyline odds at -175 for the Nuggets, the total for the game is pegged at O/U 239. While Denver's average margin of victory aligns with the spread, their performance as away favorites suggests caution, as they cover just one-third of the time in this scenario. On the other hand, Indiana has proven to be a strong bet as home underdogs, boasting a 5-2 ATS record.
Commentary surrounding the game suggests that despite Denver's poor ATS performance this season, their consistent 5-point margin of victory could see them covering the spread in this matchup. Jokic's formidable presence and Murray's need for defensive attention pose challenges for the Pacers. Moreover, Denver's ability to score from various positions, with notable contributions from players like Porter and Gordon in their recent clash with the Pacers, adds depth to their offensive threat.
As the two teams prepare to face off, the Nuggets aim to extend their dominance over the Pacers, while Indiana looks to leverage their home-court advantage and improve their standing in the Eastern Conference. With key players on both sides potentially impacting the game's outcome, Tuesday night's contest promises to be an intriguing battle on the hardwood.