Denver (37-20) at Indiana (32-23)
- When: Feb 24 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- TV: ALT
Game Preview
Denver Favored by 5, Total Set at 245.5
The Denver Nuggets look to regroup after their nine-game winning streak came to an abrupt halt with a 123-100 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday. Now, they hit the road for a four-game Eastern Conference trip, beginning with a showdown against the Indiana Pacers on Monday night. With Denver entering as a 5-point favorite and the total set at a lofty 245.5, this game is expected to be an up-tempo, high-scoring affair.
Denver Nuggets: Seeking Redemption After Rare Off Night
Denver had been rolling through opponents, averaging 128 points per game during their nine-game win streak, but they struggled mightily against the Lakers, never holding a lead in the 23-point loss. Los Angeles completely neutralized Nikola Jokic, holding the reigning MVP candidate to just 12 points on 2-of-7 shooting, marking one of his worst offensive performances of the season.
The turnovers were another major issue, as Denver coughed up the ball 22 times, allowing the Lakers to dictate the pace and keep them off balance. Head coach Michael Malone did not hold back after the game, emphasizing that his team cannot just rely on their offense to win games.
“No one’s going to be scared that the Denver Nuggets are coming to town,” Malone said. “We have to play a lot better … When we’re not scoring, when we’re not making shots, what are we going to do?”
Now, the Nuggets must quickly regroup against an Indiana squad that thrives in high-scoring contests. If Denver wants to cover the spread, they need a much-improved performance from Jokic and better ball security.
Key Betting Trends for Denver:
Denver is 6-3 ATS in its last nine games
The Nuggets are 5-2 ATS in their last seven road games
The Under has hit in five of Denver’s last seven games
Indiana Pacers: High-Powered Offense Faces Tough Test
The Pacers enter this game riding a three-game winning streak, most recently blowing out the Clippers 129-111 on Sunday. Indiana controlled the game from start to finish, leading by as many as 22 points while shooting 54.8% from the field.
Tyrese Haliburton was the star, recording 29 points and 12 assists, marking his 16th double-double of the season. The Pacers also got a season-high 19 points from Aaron Nesmith, showing that their offense is more than just a one-man show.
However, Indiana has struggled against Denver historically, losing eight straight meetings. Despite their strong play of late, they’ll need a near-perfect performance to snap that streak.
“We’re looking forward to competing against another great team,” Haliburton said. “Obviously, Jokic is having a great year, and that team is having a great year. We just want to see where we stack up.”
One key concern for Indiana is the health of point guard T.J. McConnell, who sprained his ankle in the fourth quarter against the Clippers. If he’s unavailable, Haliburton will carry an even heavier offensive load.
Key Betting Trends for Indiana:
The Pacers are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games
Indiana is 6-3 ATS in its last nine overall
Indiana has lost its last eight meetings against Denver
Game Prediction & Best Bets
Denver rarely loses two games in a row, and coming off an embarrassing home defeat, expect a much sharper performance from Jokic and company. The Pacers will push the pace, but Denver has the defensive versatility and interior presence to slow them down when needed.
Expect the Nuggets to cover the spread, while the total may come down to Indiana’s ability to score efficiently. If Denver controls the paint and limits turnovers, they should walk away with a solid road win.
Best Bets:
Denver -5 – The Nuggets should bounce back and take care of business.
Under 245.5 – Despite both teams’ offensive firepower, this number is high.
Denver First Half -2.5 – Expect a fast start after Saturday’s disappointing loss.
Final Score Prediction: Denver 122, Indiana 114
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
