Denver Nuggets to stop their three-game losing skid when they go against the Toronto Raptors for their second and final regular season match. It is just unfortunate that the Nuggets are now on a losing streak, during a crucial time. The playoffs is just around the corner, so having this losing streak does not help their campaign. As for the Raptors, they are no better as they are also in a three-game losing streak. Considering their place in the standings, they need more wins, or else, early elimination awaits them. The Nuggets had a narrow 122-120 defeat against the Nets, while the Raptors are from a 122-112 loss against the Lakers. This match will be hosted by the Raptors on March 15, 2023, at 7:30 AM (GMT+8).
During their previous match, it was the visitors who took home the win in a 118-113 victory for them. The question is that whether the visitors could get the same result or the hosts would finally score a win? These two teams are from different conference with the hosts at the East, and the visitors at the West. The hosts are at the ninth of the Eastern Conference standings, with 32 wins from their 68 games. However, due to their recent results, they might be at the verge of eliminations. The visitors on the other hand, are at the top of the Western Conference with 46 wins. However, due to their recent results, their game lead is now down to five games, so they cannot afford to lose their next matches.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets are looking to finally end their losing streak, losing against the Bulls, Spurs, and the Nets. Their last win was when they won against the Raptors way back March 7, 2023, ending their winning streak. They had a close game against the Nets, but it is unfortunate that Jokic missed the match that could have tied their game. On that match, they actually outscored the Nets on the fourth quarter, 33-24. However, it was not enough as the Nets were able to establish score on the third quarter. Fortunately, they are taking care of their business from beyond the arc, shooting 38.9%. Moreover, for the free-throw percentage, they are doing quite well, shooting 75.3%. Offensively, they are at the seventh with 116.9 points per game, and 13th in defense allowing113 points per game.
Nikola Jokic continues to lead the Nuggets with 24.7 points per game. Jamal Murray on the other hand scores 20.1 points per game, but is listed a doubt in this match. Aside from him, Reggie Jackson is also listed questionable. Moreover, Collin Gillespie, and Zeke Nnaji are both out, die to their injuries.
Toronto Raptors
This season have been rough for the Raptors, as they had a hard time to overcome losing runs this season. Before their losing run, they actually won seven of their eight-game stretch, but now lost to five of their seven game since then. They are now in a three-game losing streak, a record they want to end so they could stop dropping in the standings. This is their first game since their loss against their Lakers over the weekend. Additionally, they now return at home, after winning five games on the road. This squad is playing poorly from beyond the arc, shooting just 33.7% in that territory. Fortunately, they were able to take care of their business in the charity stripe, shooting 78.3%. Offensively, they are at the 23rd with 112.4 points per game, and the seventh in defense with 112.2 points per game.
Pascal Siakam leads the Raptors with 24.2 points per game, while Fred VanVleet is chipping in 19.1 points per game. Unfortunately, Dalano Banton is listed as questionable, while Otto Porter Jr. is listed unavailable in this match.
Prediction:
Denver Nuggets
Total Under: 114.5
Odds: 0.80
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