Dallas Mavericks (22-17) vs Denver Nuggets (23-15)
Game Info: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 9:30 pm (American Airlines Center)
Betting Odds: Dallas Mavericks +4.5 -- Over/Under: 231 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: TNT
The Denver Nuggets (23-15) are set to face the Dallas Mavericks (22-17) on January 14, 2025, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. In their previous encounter, the Nuggets secured a 112-101 victory over the Mavericks. Denver's offense has been impressive, averaging 120.4 points per game, ranking third in the league, with a field goal percentage of 49.9%. Defensively, they allow 116.1 points per game, placing them 23rd in the NBA. Key contributors include Nikola Jokić, who has been dominant in scoring and rebounding, and Russell Westbrook, who recorded 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists in the last matchup against Dallas.
The Mavericks have faced challenges recently, losing six of their last eight games, largely due to the absences of stars Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Klay Thompson has stepped up, scoring 25 points in the recent loss to Denver, but the team has struggled to maintain leads and close out games. Dallas's defense has been a concern, conceding 111 or more points in four of their last five games.
Kyrie Irving Over 5.5 Assists
Kyrie Irving has been a key contributor for the Dallas Mavericks. He’s averaging 4.9 assists per game, ranking 40th in the league. In addition to his playmaking, Irving contributes 24.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, with a field goal percentage of 49.0%. Notably, on December 23, 2024, he recorded 8 assists in a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, showcasing his ability to facilitate the Mavericks' offense.
It looks like there's a good chance Kyrie Irving will be back in action for this game. If he’s not playing disregard this pick. Luka Doncic is currently leading this Mavericks team in assists but with him not playing someone is going to need to step up. We've seen Kyrie have big nights facilitating the ball when he's the main ball handler. He has a great matchup in this game facing Denver who gives up 29.4 assists per game to opposing teams which is the most in the NBA.
Nikola Jokic Over 12.5 Rebounds
Nikola Jokić has been a dominant force on the boards for the Denver Nuggets during the 2024-25 NBA season. As of January 13, 2025, he is averaging 13.0 rebounds per game, ranking third in the league. In addition to his rebounding, Jokić contributes significantly across the stat sheet, averaging 31.2 points and 9.8 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 55.6%. Notably, on January 10, 2025, Jokić recorded a triple-double with 35 points, 15 assists, and 12 rebounds in a 124-105 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.
These teams just played on Sunday night and in that game, Nikola Jokic had a whopping 18 rebounds. He contributed on both the offensive and defensive side of the glass. He should have another big rebounding night going against this Mavericks team whose weak in the paint. Dallas gives up 53.1 rebounds per game to opposing teams which is well above the league average. This is a great matchup for Jokic to clean up on the glass.
Russell Westbrook Over 12.5 Points
Russell Westbrook has been a valuable contributor in his short time with the Denver Nuggets. He’s averaging 12.9 points per game. In addition to his scoring, Westbrook contributes 5.0 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 46.4%. Notably, on January 10, 2025, Westbrook recorded a triple-double with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists in a 124-105 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.
Russell Westbrook has been looking like his old self as of late. We've seen him have 19 or more points in four straight games. In the game on Sunday against this same Maverick team, he had a great night putting up 21 points. As Westbrook continues to build a role with this Nuggets team his point line will continue to increase so there's still a lot of value in taking the over at this short number of 12.5 points.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
