Dallas Mavericks at Denver Nuggets odds, picks and predictions

The Dallas Mavericks(4-0) face the Denver Nuggets(4-1) Friday in the group play stage of the NBA In-Season Tournament. Tip from Ball Arena is set for 10 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Mavericks vs. Nuggetsodds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

Dallas remains undefeated after a win against Chicago 114-105 on Wednesday to cover as a 3.5-point home favorite. F Grant Williamsled all scorers with 25 points while shooting 7-of-9 from 3. G Luka Doncicadded 18 points, 10 assists, and 7 rebounds in the victory, while the Cavs saw 24 points off the bench from F Tim Hardaway Jr.

The Nuggets dropped their 1st game of the season on Wednesday with a 110-89 loss against the Timberwolves, failing to cover as 2-point road favorites. While C Nikola Jokichad a double-double with 25 points and 10 rebounds, the only other Denver player who scored in double digits was G Jamal Murray with 14 points. Denver shot just 39.6% from the field and 18.2% from 3.

While the Mavericks have been impressive to start the season, with Doncic averaging a near triple-double (33.8 points, 10.5 rebounds, 9.8 assists), expect a bounce-back game from the Nuggets in front of their home crowd. While Jokic is dealing with a minor back injury, he will propel the offense and defense to pick up a dominant victory with no Mavs player to defend him adequately.

The Nuggets have an 0-5 Over record this season and are coming off an 89-point performance. Beyond a few players, their main offensive tactic is to work through Jokic, resulting in slower pace and less 3’s. Until they can prove otherwise, hammer the Under.