Denver (47-32) at Sacramento (39-40)
- When: Apr 9 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
- TV: ESPN
Nuggets vs Kings: NBA Betting Preview Expert Predictions
Spread: Denver -3.0 | Total: 234.0
The Denver Nuggets head to Sacramento on Wednesday night amidst major upheaval, both on and off the court. After firing longtime head coach Michael Malone and GM Calvin Booth just three games before the postseason, the Nuggets will look to snap a four-game skid and stabilize under interim coach David Adelman. Denver enters this must-win showdown as a slim 3-point road favorite, with the total set at 234.
Denver Nuggets Outlook
Denver (47-32) has unraveled at the worst possible time. Now locked in a tight Western Conference race, the Nuggets are desperately trying to avoid the play-in scenario. Without Jamal Murray (hamstring), who remains sidelined until the playoffs, the offensive workload falls squarely on MVP frontrunner Nikola Jokic.
Jokic is on a historic tear, averaging a triple-double with 30.0 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. His recent stat lines include a 61-point triple-double against Minnesota and 41-15-13 in a loss to Indiana. But the supporting cast has been shaky. Christian Braun led the team with 30 points in the most recent loss and emphasized the need for stronger leadership.
Denver’s defense has struggled during this losing streak, surrendering an average of 123 points per game over their last four. Despite the chaos, the Nuggets remain dangerous and have the high-end talent to regroup and cover on the road — especially with Jokic chasing his fourth MVP and potential triple-double history.
Sacramento Kings Preview
The Kings (39-40) are fighting to hold onto their play-in position and come into this matchup fresh off a gritty 127-117 comeback win over Detroit. With their final road trip behind them, they now begin a critical three-game homestand to close out the season.
Sacramento has gotten a major boost from recent addition Zach LaVine, who dropped 43 points on the Pistons after scoring 37 the game before. Paired with DeMar DeRozan, the duo gives the Kings a legitimate 1-2 scoring punch. However, the loss of Malik Monk to a calf injury clouds their backcourt depth.
The Kings have covered in four of their last six games and could present matchup issues for Denver if Jokic doesn’t get enough help. However, Sacramento’s defense remains a liability, giving up 118.4 points per game over their last five contests.
Betting Prediction
Prediction: Denver 121, Sacramento 116
Best Bet: Denver -3
Total: Over 234.0
The Nuggets are dealing with internal drama, but Jokic is playing at an elite level, and the Kings’ defensive vulnerabilities could be exposed. Denver finds its footing just in time to cover and keep its playoff hopes intact. Take the Nuggets to bounce back in a high-scoring road win.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
