The second-round playoff series between the Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns will begin on Monday at Phoenix Suns Arena. The two Western Conference squads have gone to overtime twice in three matchups, with the Nuggets winning two games, but Jamal Murray’s season-ending injury could tip the scales in Suns’ favor. Let’s go over the best betting options at DraftKings Sportsbook.
Nuggets vs. Suns, 10:00 p.m. ET, TNT
Pick ATS: Suns -5
Phoenix’s first-round victories against the Los Angeles Lakers were by an average of 15 points. Considering that Los Angeles boasted the regular season’s best defensive rating, covering against the Nuggets at home should be much easier. The Nuggets are loaded with defensive liabilities and will be at a major disadvantage in the backcourt. Chris Paul and Devin Booker are sure to win their matchups against Facundo Campazzo and Austin Rivers. Deandre Ayton comfortable averaged 22 points and 12.3 rebounds against Denver during the regular season, so the Nuggets should have a tough time covering without several key players.
Player Prop: Nikola Jokic O6.5 assists (+110)
Jokic was surprisingly held under 7 assists in six of the seven games he played against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round. Portland limited his passing in the regular season, but Jokic averaged 8 assists per game against the Puns through three meetings. That’s a little lower than his season average of 8.3 dimes, but Phoenix’s defense is several notches above Portland’s and should be able to funnel Jokic into passing more often than the Trail Blazers could.
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