Denver Nuggets vs Charlotte Hornets Betting Preview

The Nuggets travel to Buzz City to face the Hornets on Tuesday night. Charlotte is doing all they can to avoid falling into the 9/10 game so that they can just win one and push their way into the #7 spot. It’s not going to be easy, but it could very well be their fate if they can win a big game on their home court here.

Denver has dealt with numerous injuries, but it hasn’t stopped them from winning. They did blow a 20-point lead in a recent loss to Brooklyn, unable to stop the star power from shining. The Nets are tough for a lot of teams, but it showed that if Denver does find a way to go all the way in the West, they could have a very hard time against those pesky guys.

Charlotte is dealing with a lot of injuries still, but at least they have LaMelo Ball back in the lineup. As soon as he got healthy, Devonte Graham got hurt again, so it’s basically swapping one for another. The team’s depth has really been tested, but they have been able to win some games against quality competition. The future is very bright for the Hornets, with a lot of talent around.

ODDS

The spread for Tuesday night’s matchup is set at DEN -6.5. The over/under is sitting at 220.5 points.

Nuggets Seeking Win No. 45

Remember big man Raef LaFrentz? He was one of the initial stretch fives in the NBA, and he used to play for the Nuggets, among many teams. He rocked the #45 jersey, representing the win number that the team is hoping to pick up tonight. When you have Nikola Jokic as your center, there is always a good chance at victory, no matter the opposition.

Jamal Murray going down has done nothing to slow the team’s roll. Michael Porter Jr. has been thriving as the #2 option, picking up an even heavier load with Will Barton also being out. Austin Rivers has been a godsend of sorts for this team, playing big minutes at both guard spots.

They could really use this W over Charlotte as they try and catch the Clippers for the #3 spot.

Hornets Look to Remain In The #8 Spot

The Pacers’ win over the Wizards last night put them within a single game of Charlotte for the #8 spot. The big difference between 8/9 is the opportunity at a quick clinch versus needing two wins. Also, the #8 seed has two chances to win one game in an effort to try and push for a playoff spot, whereas the other game features a loser being sent home right away.

The return of LaMelo has certainly given the Hornets a boost, but they lost a heartbreaker to the Pelicans on Sunday night. There are a few holes on the roster that need to be filled this offseason at the center spot, but besides that, the roster is solid. Boy, they could really use Gordon Hayward right about now.

NUGGETS WIN

Denver will get the W on the road to improve to 45-24 for the year, with three games left.

FREE PLAY: DEN -6.5
O/U: OVER 220.5