Picks of the Week: Warriors-Nuggets, Magic-Knicks

A collaboration between ALL-STAR Magazine and SportsPlus PH

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to be consumed as financial advice but rather a way to provide context on sports betting.

When it comes to making sharp NBA betting decisions, few are as consistent and insightful as Denzeal Chung and Sanjay Belani. Both seasoned gamblers, Denzeal and Sanjay have built reputations in their field for reading the game beyond the box score, blending deep basketball knowledge with an uncanny ability to analyze the ever-changing odds. This week, they’re back with their top picks, breaking down matchups, player trends, and betting lines.

Running Record:

Denzeal: 2-3-0

Sanjay: 2-3-0

RELATED: Pusta? A basic introduction to sports betting for Filipinos

Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 11:00 AM: Golden State Warriors vs. Denver Nuggets 

After a tough loss against the Clippers, the Denver Nuggets currently sit at 10-8 in the Western Conference, occupying the 9th spot. Up next, they face the revamped Golden State Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and their recent acquisition, Buddy Hield.

If the Nuggets are at full strength, I’m confident they can secure the win. Their tall lineup and effective roster construction make them a formidable opponent this season. Nikola Jokić continues to prove his critics wrong, showing he’s still an MVP-caliber player despite missing a few games following the birth of his child. In 18 games, Jokić is averaging an impressive stat line of nearly 30 points, 13 rebounds, 11 assists, and 2 steals per game.

Christian Braun has emerged as Mr. Consistent for Denver, boasting a 59% field goal percentage and shooting 48% from beyond the arc. His efficiency has been instrumental in the Nuggets’ pursuit of another championship.

The team is also set to welcome back Aaron Gordon, who is expected to play against the Warriors after missing 11 games due to a right calf injury. Gordon has been a key contributor since joining Denver, and in matchups against Golden State, he’s averaged 14 points, 8 rebounds, and at least 1 block per game.

Key Stats:

• The Nuggets are 5-0 straight up (SU) in their last five home games against the Warriors.
• Golden State is 1-4 SU and against the spread (ATS) in their last five games.

• Golden State are 1-4 SU/ATS in their last 5 games.

Denzeal’s pick: Denver -5

Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 8:30 AM: Orlando Magic vs. New York Knicks

The Orlando Magic, the hottest team in the NBA, comes to Madison Square Garden for an epic matchup with the New York Knicks. Both teams are part of East Group A and undefeated in the Emirates Cup. The Knicks have picked it up as of late, winning 7 of their last 10 games with key victories in Denver and Phoenix, and the Magic, despite missing star Paolo Banchero, are dominating and sitting 3rd in the East. However, it’s important to note that the Magic are 6-7 on the road and 9-0 at home, while the Knicks are 7-3 in the garden.

I like the Knicks in this match up as I feel like they’ve beaten more impressive opponents in blowout fashion and they’re playing at home where they’ve been really good. With their starters averaging almost 100ppg and seemingly improving their chemistry, I see them winning this game. The Magic have been impressive but without Paolo and Wendall Carter Jr., I think New York’s firepower will be too much for them to handle. I see the Knicks winning by a margin of 5 or more.

Sanjay’s Pick: Knicks -4.5