Nuggets vs Thunder Prediction, Props and Best Bets NBA Game 1
John Canady
Host · Writer
The Denver Nuggets are set for a matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night as the Western Conference Semifinal rounds begin. Denver is fresh off a Game 7 win against the LA Clippers on Saturday night, and their prize for the big win was one day of rest and a matchup with the league-best Thunder. Nonetheless, with the season series ending in a 2-2 tie, this playoff series could be one of the best battles in the postseason.
Nuggets vs Thunder
- Location: Paycom Center – Oklahoma City, OK
- Where to Watch: TNT/truTV/Max
- Time: 9:30 p.m. ET
- Spread: Thunder -9.5 | Total: 225.5
- Moneyline: Thunder -420 | Nuggets +330
Please be aware that betting odds may change after the publication of this article.
Nuggets vs Thunder Best Bet: Nuggets +9.5
The Nuggets enter this matchup short on rest, and while that may be viewed as a negative by many, I think it will only impact them the longer this series goes. Denver may not be well-rested, but they may have the upper hand regarding rust on an OKC team that hasn’t played since April 26. If the Nuggets can carry their momentum from their dominant win on Saturday into Game 1, I can see them keeping this matchup closer than a margin of 10+ points.
Nuggets vs Thunder Best Total Bet: Over 225.5
These two squads have proven throughout the regular season and the playoffs that they have the firepower to go toe-to-toe with any team in the league. Looking back at the regular season series between these two teams, only one game failed to surpass the 225.5-point set total. With their last three matchups exceeding the mark, I like the odds that Game 1 will keep that trend alive, with a final score of 123-119 seeming like a realistic outcome.
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Nuggets Best Player Bet: Russell Westbrook 2+ Threes Made +120
Russell Westbrook proved to be a difference-maker for the Nuggets in round one, averaging 13.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, while playing a pivotal role in sending his former team home. In this second-round matchup, he’ll be playing against the organization where he began his career and played his best basketball, which could bode well for him to elevate his game again. With 2+ threes in each of his last three games and five of his last six, I have faith the veteran guard can hit the mark again on Monday.
Thunder Best Player Bet: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander OVER 6.5 Assists +102
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a finalist for the MVP award. Mostly, it’s been because of his capability to take over any game throughout the season, averaging 32.7 points. Although the Kentucky product’s scoring ability is his strength, his playmaking ability doesn’t trail far off, averaging 6.4 assists. Assuming Denver makes it a point to get the ball out of his hands on Monday, I like the chances he gets his teammates involved in this matchup to finish with 7+ assists.
