The Denver Nuggets visit the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center on Christmas night. The Nuggets are 16-11 and sit 5th in the Western Conference, while the Suns hold an even 14-14 record, placing them 11th. This matchup comes just two days after Denver defeated Phoenix 117-90 in a dominant showing at home.
Both teams are dealing with key injuries, which could shape the rematch. The Nuggets have won two straight and five of their last six, while the Suns are struggling, losing three straight games and six of their last eight. Denver will look to continue their strong form, while Phoenix hopes to bounce back on their home floor.
Nuggets Preview – Can Denver Maintain Momentum?
The Nuggets delivered one of their most complete performances of the season in Monday’s victory. Nikola Jokic led the way with 32 points on 12-of-17 shooting, supported by Michael Porter Jr.’s efficient 24 points. Denver outscored Phoenix 62-39 in the second half, dominating both ends of the court.
Jamal Murray’s status is uncertain as he deals with an ankle injury. His absence didn’t slow Denver on Monday, with Jalen Pickett stepping up off the bench for 11 points and eight assists. Denver’s ability to find contributions from its role players has been key to their success during this stretch.
Defensively, Denver excelled in limiting Phoenix to 39.8% shooting. The Nuggets will look to replicate this effort, particularly in the paint, where they held a 50-24 scoring advantage. Another balanced performance will make them hard to beat.
Suns Preview – Can the Suns Overcome Their Injuries?
The Suns are missing key contributors in Devin Booker and Grayson Allen, both ruled out for the Christmas game. Without Booker, the Suns have struggled to find consistent scoring, as evidenced by Monday’s loss where only Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal reached double figures.
Kevin Durant remains the centerpiece of the offense, posting 23 points and nine rebounds in the last game. Bradley Beal matched Durant’s scoring output but received little help from the supporting cast. Phoenix’s bench has failed to step up, and their shooting woes continue to hold them back.
Defensively, the Suns need to play with more intensity after giving up 45 points in the third quarter on Monday. Rookie Ryan Dunn and others emphasized the need for effort and resilience, but the challenge remains significant against a Denver team firing on all cylinders.
Betting Prediction
Denver enters as 2.5-point road favorites, with the total set at 232.5. The Nuggets have been consistent on both ends, while the Suns’ injury woes and lack of depth make them hard to trust. Denver’s inside presence and balanced attack give them the edge in this matchup.
Expect Denver to win and cover the spread, while the under on the total looks promising with Phoenix’s scoring struggles and Denver’s improving defense.
Pick: Nuggets -2.5
