A rematch of the 2023 NBA Finals presents a perfect opportunity to put together Heat vs Nuggets predictions. Pre-game odds may position the Nuggets as the favourite to be the game-winner, but what are our other tips?
Heat vs Nuggets Predictions & Tips
- Under 212.5 total points – 2.20
- Half Time/Full Time: Denver Nuggets/Denver Nuggets – 1.89
- Denver Nuggets -2.5 in the first quarter – 2.05
The Denver Nuggets should be expected to beat the Miami Heat by 6-10 points.
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Low-scoring game expected in Miami
Only the Knicks have hit the under more frequently than these two teams. The under has landed in 62.5% of the Heat’s regular season games this term, and in 60% of the Nuggets’ contests.
When these teams met in the 2023 NBA Finals, all games but one hit this under. Both favour playing halfcourt basketball, with each ranking in the bottom four in terms of pace for the season.
This line might seem very low for an NBA game in 2024. Yet, these teams are an exception to the high-pace, high-offence basketball we are now accustomed to.
Bet 1: Under 212.5 total points @ 2.20 Bet9ja
Denver to take an early advantage
Since the All-Star, Denver have won nine of their 10 games. They have led at halftime in six of them, one of which includes their win over the Heat last month.
Overall, the Nuggets have a +11 advantage per 100 possessions over the 10 games, following All-Star festivities. They appear to be incredibly formidable once again.
In contrast, the Heat have their work cut out to avoid the Play-In Tournament. We know they tend to step up in the biggest games. Still, they are likely overmatched against the defending champions, just as we saw in last summer’s Finals.
Bet 2: Half Time/Full Time: Denver Nuggets/Denver Nuggets @ 1.89 Bet9ja
Nuggets to impress in the first period
Since the All-Star break, the Nuggets have had a 12.9 net rating in the first quarter. The stats suggest they can get off to a quick start on Wednesday night. They are further backed up when comparing them head-to-head with the Heat.
Meanwhile, Miami have had a -1.7 first quarter net rating since the break. Although they might have played some good first quarters lately, they have not faced many starting fives as formidable as the Nuggets.
With Tyler Herro, Kevin Love and Josh Richardson out, Miami’s first quarter rotation is considerably weakened. We’re backing the Nuggets to hold an advantage after 12 minutes. Nikola Jokic will play most of the first quarter, and they are +10.4 in his minutes this season.
Bet 3: Denver Nuggets -2.5 in the first quarter – 2.05
