OKC Thunder must limit Nuggets one-two punch in Northwest battle
Steven Adams versus Nikola Jokic:
Jokic is close to averaging a triple-double and leads the Nuggets in nearly every category including points (20.6), rebounds (10.2) and assists (6.9).
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His counterpart Steven Adams is almost averaging a double-double with 10.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.6 assists.
The Nuggets leader does have the upper hand due to the options he utilizes and his vast skill set, especially as a big man. We’ll have to see if Adams can use his force to contain Jokic throughout the game.
Chris Paul/Shai Gilgeous-Alexander versus Jamal Murray:
When the two sides take the court, there will be three Canadians on the floor which include the Nuggets’ Murray and OKC Thunder’s Dort and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s matchup with Murray is going to be a spectacle. The former is having a season to remember averaging 19.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. The latter is putting up 18.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.8 assists.
Who will come out on top? We will have to wait and see but as well as Gilgeous-Alexander, Chris Paul will look to cause some damage.
After watching CP3 this season and witnessing his crazy hops, it’s safe to say he can do anything. Just give him the ball, and he’ll go and play like he’s still 25 years old.
Odds predictions:
I predict that the OKC Thunder and Denver Nuggets will accumulate more than the estimated 214.5 points. This is due to the Thunder scoring an average of 110.7 points per night. In addition to this, the Nuggets average 112.0 points which add up to 222.7.
Game Specifics
The Venue: Chesapeake Energy Arena
Tipoff: 8:00 PM ET | 7:00 PM CT
TV: FS Oklahoma
Radio: WWLS 98.1 FM OKC
History:
The teams have played each other 44 times in the regular season ahead of this match with the Denver Nuggets holding a 23-21 advantage.
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Enjoy the game and check back after for player grades and takeaways.