Breaking down betting splits for Nuggets vs. Thunder

While neither team has taken the court in over a week, you’d be hard-pressed to find two offenses working as efficiently as Denver and Oklahoma City have been in recent games. In fact, it’s almost kind of eerie how similar the two squads have looked across their past 10 contests from a statistical profile. Each is 7-3 overall within the span with a net rating of 6.0, both are sitting in the league’s Top-5 in offensive rating, and, on top of that, the two teams also rank in the bottom-third of the NBA in pace. Knowing all that, it’s easy to see why the spread in tonight’s matchup is less than two points.

Here are some betting trends for this evening’s tilt between the Nuggets and Thunder, as provided by DraftKings Sportsbook:

As you see, despite the symmetry I referenced above, most of the betting public is feeling good about Denver’s chances on the road Friday night. That’s likely the case for a few different reasons. First and foremost, the Nuggets are simply regarded as one of the league’s superior teams and getting an opportunity to bet them as an underdog is tempting. Second, Denver will welcome back both Michael Porter Jr. and Mason Plumlee to their rotation, giving the squad it’s healthiest roster in weeks.

Honestly, I can get behind this line of thinking. While Oklahoma City has been solid the past couple of months, they’ve been underwhelming at home, mustering a modest record of 17-12 for the season and dropping four of their last five games matchups at Chesapeake Energy Arena against the spread. I’d even consider trying my luck with the Nuggets’ moneyline (+102).

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA) or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN) or 1-800-522-4700 (NH). NH/NJ/WV/IN/PA only. 21+ (18+ NH). Eligibility Restrictions Apply. See website for details.