Denver Nuggets suffered two consecutive defeats against the Phoenix Suns, putting their semi-finals series in a tied series. It seems like the Suns are finally back in the series, while the Nuggets are seen struggling. With that, the Nuggets are hoping to return to winning ways, so they could take the lead in the series. The Suns on the other hand will not let this to happen, as they are also aiming to reach the Finals. The semi-finals series between these two teams is a battle of the giants between Kevin Durant, and Nikola Jokic. This is a must-win game for both teams, as taking a game-lead in this match means they are just a win away from the Finals. This meeting will be on May 10, 2023, at 10:00 AM (GMT+8), with the Nuggets playing as hosts.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets are looking to end their misfortunes as they return at home for their Game 5. It was a tough road game for the Nuggets, as they failed to win during their last two matches on the road. Their results in their last two matches are far different from their first two games, which is why they are aiming to take advantage of this home game. Their Game 3 ended in a 129-124 defeat for the Nuggets, a record they can no longer afford to happen. Nuggets are not doing well in offense, as they are only scoring 113.4 points per game, the ninth in the league. Nuggets’ greatest advantage in this match is their free-throw shooting, as they are shooting 81.3% in the charity stripe. They are doing a little better in defense though, as they are allowing just 105.3 points per game.
Nikola Jokic, and Jamal Murray continues to lead the Nuggets with 30.8 and 26.7 points per game respectively. They are also getting contributions from Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon, who are with 14.4 and 14 points per game apiece. However, Collin Gillespie, remains to be an absentee for this match, as he has yet to recover from his leg injury.
Phoenix Suns
The Suns had a 121-114 win in Game 3, and a 129-124 win during the Game 4, which tied their series. It was a tough series for the Suns, but their comeback in those two matches is a proof that they are a capable team. In Game 4, the Suns took advantage of their efficient shooting beyond the arc. During the Game 4, both teams are both shooting well from the field, but the Suns took advantage of their three-point shooting. They shot over 44.8% from beyond the arc, where they are more efficient. Additionally, their fast break points have been one of their strengths on their last match. They scored 10 more fast break points than their opponents, a proof that the Suns are indeed back. They are the sixth in offense with 115.6 points per game, but are 12th in defense, allowing 114.3 points per game.
Devin Booker leads the Suns with 36.8 points per game, along with Kevin Durant who is chipping in 30 points per game. These two are expected to continue going up with the duo of Murray, and Jokic of the Nuggets. It is just unfortunate that they will be without one of their main guy, Chris Paul, who remains to be out due to his groin injury.
Prediction:
Denver Nuggets
Total Under: 117.5
Odds: 0.71
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