The toughest game in every NBA Finals is the fourth game, as it tends to shift dramatically one way or another.
The road team has taken the last two contests, and it has been a surprise how both of them have come to a close. For Miami, they nearly blew their big lead in the third game, but did manage to come away with a victory to avoid falling down multiple games. And when the series moved to South Beach, they just didn’t show up to play.
The Nuggets have the best players in the series, with Nikola Jokic putting up a triple-double of the likes which we have never seen as a basketball before. Even with two of their starting wings not performing at a high level, they have been able to play good ball. The triple-doubles have been insane, with both he and Jamal Murray putting them up. This is a duo like none other in the league and it’s clear the chemistry is second to none.
As the series officially shifts, it’s time to discuss what each side needs to do in order to get the victory. A lot of factors will come in, and it will be up to the stars to deliver the goods.
ODDS:
SPREAD: DEN -3.5
ML: DEN -162, MIA +136
O/U: 210.5
Nuggets Seek to Keep it Rolling
Denver has been tough to stop throughout the playoffs, a team steamrolling through everybody. They have gone 14-4 so far and exhibited a level of dominance not even seen by the Warriors during their best moments in 2022. The depth has been called into question at times, with only eight players seeking consistent run. They trotted Reggie Jackson out for a brief opening quarter stint, but it didn’t last much. They wanted a true one at all times.
Murray was exceptional, with Bruce Brown making a little magic of his own at times. Christian Braun came into the game and surprisingly stole the show how he was able to play like he did just proves that staying ready can be the difference maker. Aaron Gordon is past the opening round for the first time in his career, and he’s come prepared. If the stars continue to tear it up, they are going to be onto bigger and better.
Don’t Doubt Heat Culture
It’s pretty simple what the Heat have to do in order to win the next game and tie the series up at two games apiece. Jimmy Butler has to show up and deliver as he has time and time again. His aggression was on full display in the third game, but he wasn’t dominant for any specific stretches of time.
Perhaps a rotational change is needed with putting in Haywood Highsmith for Cody Zeller. Or even starting Duncan Robinson over Max Strus. If the right collection of players can come in and make moves, the team can get the win. Look for Bam to try and slow Jokic down, too.
Nuggets By a Few
Make sure to ride with the Nuggets, as they’ll get the win and advance to a 3-1 series lead.
PICK: DEN -162
