Denver (43-25) at Golden State (39-28)
- When: Mar 17 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: Chase Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- TV: ESPN
Denver Nuggets vs. Golden State Warriors – Western Conference Clash
Golden State favored by 4.5 | Total: 237.0
Two potential first-round playoff opponents meet in what could be a statement game Monday night when the Denver Nuggets visit the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco. If the season ended today, these teams would square off as the No. 3 vs. No. 6 matchup in the West, with Denver owning home-court advantage. However, recent head-to-head history favors the Nuggets, who have won eight straight against the Warriors, including a 119-115 win in December.
The Warriors, however, have a new weapon in Jimmy Butler, who has helped turn their season around. Golden State is 14-2 since acquiring Butler, including seven straight wins, and they now sit just 3.5 games behind Denver in the standings.
With both teams battling for postseason positioning, expect a high-intensity showdown at Chase Center.
Denver Nuggets Outlook
Record: 43-25 (3rd in West) | Last Game: 126-123 Loss vs. Wizards
The Nuggets have been inconsistent lately, alternating wins and losses in their last six games. They looked strong Friday night against the Lakers (131-126 win) but suffered a shocking home loss to the lowly Washington Wizards on Saturday—a game that ended on Jordan Poole’s 35-foot buzzer-beater.
Nikola Jokic continues to strengthen his MVP case, coming off a 40-point, 13-rebound, 9-assist performance in the loss to Washington. He has been dominant vs. the Warriors, posting three triple-doubles during Denver’s eight-game winning streak over Golden State, including 38 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, and five steals in their last meeting.
However, Jokic emphasized the need for the Nuggets to stay locked in as the playoffs approach.
“You can’t just flip a switch for the playoffs. Who you are in the regular season is who you are in the playoffs,” he said.
Denver will need better defense and secondary scoring support to snap Golden State’s winning streak.
Golden State Warriors Outlook
Record: 39-28 (6th in West) | Last Game: 97-94 Win vs. Knicks
The Warriors are on fire, winning seven straight games and four straight to open their seven-game homestand. However, they were pushed to the limit in their 97-94 win over the Knicks on Saturday, which kicked off a tough three-game stretch that includes matchups against Denver and Milwaukee.
Stephen Curry, who had 24 points and 11 assists in December’s loss to Denver, knows the Warriors have no room for error in a crowded Western Conference.
“Sixth place has been a great floor for us, but there’s no safety net. We’ve got to keep winning,” Curry said.
The biggest difference this time around? Jimmy Butler. Since joining the team from Miami, Butler has transformed Golden State’s defense and toughness, giving them an edge they lacked earlier this season. His two-way play and leadership have helped elevate the Warriors into a serious threat heading into the postseason.
Golden State will look to snap its losing streak against Denver by relying on Curry’s elite shooting, Butler’s all-around impact, and a fast-paced offense that can challenge the Nuggets’ defense.
Final Prediction & Betting Analysis
The Nuggets have dominated this series, but Golden State’s momentum is undeniable. The Warriors are red-hot at home and will be extra motivated to break their losing streak against Denver. Expect Jokic to have another monster performance, but Golden State’s depth and defense to make the difference down the stretch.
Final Score Prediction: Warriors 123, Nuggets 117
Best Bet: Warriors -4.5
Lean on the Over: Both teams can score at a high clip, and with a total of Over 237.0, expect this one to flirt with the Over.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
