Nuggets vs. Suns prediction, odds: how we’re betting on Phoenix’s recent rise

We have a Nuggets vs. Suns prediction as Denver tries again to clinch home-court advantage through the Western Conference playoffs.

The Nuggets have just one win in their past four games and are coming off a disappointing 124-103 loss to the lowly Houston Rockets.

If we turn to the Suns, they’re the hottest team in the league, as evidenced by their six-game winning streak. With Phoenix the fourth seed in the conference, it’s conceivable that these teams meet as early as the second round in the playoffs.

In this preview, I’ll share why the Suns have a great chance to send a warning shot to the Nuggets.

Spread: DEN +7.5 (-110) vs. PHX -7.5 (+110)

Moneyline: DEN (+250) vs. PHX (-300)

Total: Over 223.5 (-110) | Under 223.5 (-110)

Two-leg, five-point teaser (+106): Suns -2.5 / Under 228.5

The roles seem almost reversed for these teams when you consider the injuries Phoenix dealt with for much of the season.

According to basketball-reference.com, the Suns have had 24 different starting lineups.

Moreover, the Suns have two different lineups tied for the most starts (11) on their team this season.

Guards Chris Paul and Devin Booker missed significant time, and then after landing Kevin Durant via trade, Durant went down with a freakish injury during warm-ups.

However, when those three players and center Deandre Ayton can get on the court together, the Suns have a starting lineup that can rival any team in the league.

In addition to the Suns’ six-game winning streak, this team is also a perfect 7-0 when Durant is in the lineup.

The Nuggets would probably give anything to enjoy that kind of recent success. In addition to Denver’s current struggles, it’s just 6-8 over the past four weeks.

That’s not exactly the kind of basketball you want to play heading into the postseason.

But now the Nuggets are dealing with injuries to their key players, as Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray are both questionable for the game.

There’s even a thought that Murray might miss the remainder of the regular season due to the injury.

One troubling thing if you’re a Nuggets fan is the lack of scoring to close the season.

Per TeamRankings, Denver sits third in offensive efficiency with 114.2 points per 100 possessions.

And yet, the total has gone under in 10 straight games for the Nuggets.

When you look at this Nuggets team, you don’t get the sense that they strike fear in the hearts of opposing teams.

Given the critical injuries they’re dealing with now, I don’t expect much from them on the road in Phoenix.

While I plan to ride this hot streak with the home team, I’ll look to play a five-point teaser by bringing the Suns down to 2.5 and pairing them with the under at 228.5.