Denver has the best home-court advantage in the NBA; Brooklyn the worst

Any competitive advantage in an NBA season is important whether it is home cooking or the comfort and familiarity of your own locker room.

Any competitive advantage in an NBA season is important whether it is home cooking or the comfort and familiarity of your own locker room.

For this study, we subtracted the difference from the team winning percentage on the road from their winning percentage at home. This illustrates, in part, the impact of playing in their own city has had on franchises around the league. We looked at all games played since the Basketball Association of America merged with the NBA in 1946-47.

Note that all numbers included below for teams are based on their records when playing in their current cities. That means that Golden State Warriors accounts for San Francisco both now and in the 1960s (not Oakland) while the Nets are in Brooklyn (not New Jersey), the Grizzlies are in Memphis (not Vancouver), the Jazz are in Salt Lake City (not New Orleans), etc.

Overall, this research helps show how much better a team has historically played depending on the location of the game.

Perhaps the most obvious takeaway is that the two NBA cities with the highest elevations (Denver and Utah) both rank in the Top 3. In fact, the Nuggets have won nearly twice as many games when they have played at home compared to their road appearances.

Back in 2013, Neil Payne contextualized the geographical advantages for these games (via ESPN):

“One explanation for this phenomenon is that Denver and Salt Lake City are, at 5,883 feet and 4,227 feet, respectively, the two highest-altitude cities in the entire NBA by far. (Ranking third in elevation is Phoenix at a paltry 1,132 feet.) Certainly, this is a major factor – the relatively thin air at such high elevations causes the players’ bodies to have less oxygen available for circulation to their muscles, resulting in quicker fatigue. Denver and Utah players seem to acclimate to this, offering them a presumed advantage.”

The aforementioned advantage is so distinct that in 2015, the league made an effort to schedule the Nuggets as the first stop on a trip from the east or put a day of rest in between games for teams coming from the west.

Another interesting takeaway is that cities that are known for a more vibrant nightlife (Miami, Los Angeles and New York) all fall fairly low on this list. It is common to hear “Los Angeles nightlife is undefeated” or the “South Beach Flu” after the Heat or the Lakers win a game at home. But the win-loss totals indicate that visiting teams may not be as impacted as many thought.

For further proof, Sports Insights NBA expert Carl Sack told The Action Network’s Matt Moore in 2018 that his data also indicated a regression to the mean rather than anything particularly noteworthy about party cities.

One final note is that the teams that have played the fewest total games at home (Oklahoma City Thunder, Brooklyn Nets and Golden State Warriors) fared the worst for these rankings.

These three teams rank in the Bottom 4 for home games based on sheer volume and newness in their home arenas. Whether it’s based on earning loyalty from the fans or something deeper, it was particularly interesting to see some kind of correlation even if there is no causation.

HoopsHype’s Alberto de Roa contributed research to this report

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Austin Rivers sits out second game, to return Wednesday vs. Denver

Austin Rivers sat out Monday’s game with a thumb sprain, but he’s confident that he’ll play for the Rockets on Wednesday vs. Denver.

Houston Rockets reserve guard Austin Rivers missed a second consecutive game Monday with a sprained thumb on his right shooting hand, but he’s confident that he won’t miss any further time the injury.

Wearing a protective brace, Rivers went through pregame shooting drills on the court at Toyota Center to test his status before Monday afternoon’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

While Rivers said he wanted to play Monday, the Rockets opted for caution in hopes of ensuring the injury fully goes away. The 6-foot-3 guard is averaging 7.7 points and 2.3 rebounds in 22.9 minutes per game.

Rivers said he suffered the injury last Tuesday in Memphis when he got his thumb stuck in another player’s jersey. He initially didn’t tell anyone about it and played Wednesday at home versus Portland, but Rivers said it became impossible to hide when the area swelled up “like a baseball.”

Rivers shot just 1-of-5 (20%) in 18 minutes while fighting through the injury in the team’s loss to the Trail Blazers. Houston entered Monday in a slump, having lost four of their last five games overall.

While Rivers still offers capable perimeter defense, the 27-year-old has slumped offensively for much of the 2019-20 season with just a 30.3% overall clip on 3-pointers. In his last 17 games since Dec. 7, Rivers has shot just 38.2% overall and 25.5% on 3-pointers.

The Rockets and Nuggets have split their first two meetings of the 2019-20 season, so Wednesday’s game could be critical for tiebreaker purposes later in the year. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. Central at Toyota Center.

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Denver Nuggets at Minnesota Timberwolves odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Monday’s Denver Nuggets at Minnesota Timberwolves sports betting odds, with NBA matchup analysis and picks.

Nikola Jokic and the injury-riddled Denver Nuggets (29-13) will take on the Minnesota Timberwolves (15-27) Monday night at Target Center. Tip-off will be at 8 p.m. ET. We analyze Nuggets-Timberwolves odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.


Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.


Nuggets at Timberwolves: Key injuries

Nuggets

  • PF Paul Millsap (knee) questionable
  • SG Gary Harris (abdominal) questionable
  • PG Jamal Murray (ankle) out

Timberwolves

  • SG Allen Crabbe (illness) questionable
  • SF Jake Layman (toe) out

Nuggets at Timberwolves: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 12 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Nuggets 113, Timberwolves 110

Moneyline (ML)

The Nuggets have been road warriors this season, going 12-7 away from home. The Timberwolves haven’t treated their home crowd to many wins, on the other hand, going 6-14 at Target Center.

The Timberwolves have lost five in a row, too, while the Nuggets are 3-1 in their last four games. Denver has shot over 46% from the field in each of those four games. Bet the NUGGETS (+115) to win outright, even with a wounded roster.

New to sports betting? A $10 wager on the Nuggets returns a profit of $11.50.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

Neither team has done well against the spread this season. Denver is 18-21-3 ATS, and Minnesota is only 17-23-2. It hasn’t been any better recently, either, with the Nuggets 2-3 ATS and the Timberwolves 1-4 in their last five.

The Timberwolves are favored by 1.5 points (-125) over the Nuggets, primarily because of the injuries hindering the visitors. Don’t get scared off by that. Jokic will help push Denver to victory. Take the NUGGETS (+1.5, +105) with the points to cover the spread.

Over/Under (O/U)

The total has gone Over in 13 of the Nuggets’ last 19 games and four of the Timberwolves’ last five outings. These two teams rank outside the top 10 in scoring, but with an Over/Under of 220.5, the total should go over.

Bet the OVER 220.5 (-125) Monday night. The Over is 5-1 in the Nuggets’ last six road games, which is a trend that should continue.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @camdasilva and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Indiana Pacers at Denver Nuggets odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Indiana Pacers at Denver Nuggets sports betting odds and lines, with NBA betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Indiana Pacers (27-15) visit Pepsi Center Sunday to take on the Denver Nuggets (29-12). Tipoff for this game is scheduled for 8 p.m. E.T. We analyze the Pacers-Nuggets sports betting odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Pacers at Nuggets: Key injuries

Pacers

  • SG Jeremy Lamb (hip) questionable
  • SG Victor Oladipo (knee) out

Nuggets

  • PF Paul Millsap (knee) out
  • SG Gary Harris (thigh) out
  • PG Jamal Murray (ankle) out

Pacers at Nuggets: Odds, lines, picks, and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 10:30 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Nuggets 110, Pacers 106

Moneyline (ML)

The NUGGETS (-121) are slight moneyline favorites at home Sunday evening. They have been a fantastic home team this season, winning 17 of their 22 games at Pepsi Center. The Pacers, on the other hand, have been just average on the road winning 10 of 20 contests. Given how dominant Denver has been at home this season, I like the Nuggets on the moneyline.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The NUGGETS (-1.5, -106) are one-basket favorites. While Denver will be missing several key pieces tonight, they’re still difficult to beat at home. And given a spread that low, it’s tough to see Indiana keeping it that close. I like the Nuggets to cover the spread and win by at least 2 points Sunday.

Over/Under (O/U)

The total for this matchup is set at 213.5 points, which make sense given the caliber of defenses on both sides. The Nuggets are the league’s third-ranked scoring defense, allowing just over 105 points per game. The Pacers currently rank seventh in scoring defense as they allow just over 106 points per contest. Given the two averages here, I actually like the OVER 213.5 (-106) to hit as both teams should score into the 100s.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Marcus_Mosher and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship, and there is no influence on news coverage.

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[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=2017]

Denver Nuggets at Golden State Warriors odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Thursday’s Denver Nuggets at Golden State Warriors sports betting odds and lines, with NBA betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Denver Nuggets (28-12) visit the slumping Golden State Warriors (9-33) Thursday at the Chase Center for a 10:30 p.m. ET tip-off (on TNT). We analyze the Nuggets-Warriors odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

The Nuggets beat the Charlotte Hornets 100-86 at home Wednesday, but PG Jamal Murray exited late in the second quarter after rolling his ankle.

The Warriors have dropped nine in a row – the last setback occurring Tuesday with a 124-97 shellacking by the Dallas Mavericks at home.


Get some action on this game or others by placing a bet at BetMGM.


Nuggets at Warriors: Key injuries

Nuggets

  • C Bol Bol (foot) out
  • SG Gary Harris (groin) questionable
  • PF Paul Millsap (knee) questionable
  • SG Jamal Murray (ankle) questionable

Warriors

  • PG Stephen Curry (hand) out
  • SG Jacob Evans (face) questionable
  • PF Kevon Looney (abdominal) out
  • SG Klay Thompson (knee) out

Nuggets at Warriors: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 10:45 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Nuggets 109, Warriors 99

Moneyline (ML)

Denver (-200) is costly. Every $2 wagered on the Nuggets to win will profit only $1. The Warriors (+165) offer a 1.65-to-1 payout, but I’ll PASS. I can’t back a team on a nine-game losing streak. Golden State is 6-14 at home, while Denver is 11-7 on the road.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The NUGGETS (-4.5, -115) are worth a small play despite possibly missing three starters – reserve PF Michael Porter Jr. scored 19 points Wednesday, while PG P.J. Rozier added 12 points as Murray’s replacement in the second half. Meanwhile, the Warriors have only been within 8 points twice during their nine-game skid and they’ve dropped their last two games by a combined 47 points.

New to sports betting? Every $1.15 wagered on the Nuggets spread will profit $1 if they win by 5 or more points.

Over/Under (O/U)

The UNDER 213.5 (-106) is the STRONGEST PLAY. Golden State ranks 28th in scoring at 104.5 points per game; Denver is 20th at 108.9 PPG. As for O/U records, the Warriors are 17-25 on the season, and the Nuggets are 17-23. Toss in that both teams are missing players due to injuries and the Under looks pretty, pretty good.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Johnny’s January record: 11-6-1. Since Dec. 1: 33-16-2.

January strongest plays: 7-2. Since Dec. 1: 18-5.

Follow @JohnnyParlay11 and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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Report: Warriors sign Damion Lee to contract with partial guarantee

Damion Lee’s new standard contract is evidence of his potential as a solid NBA role player.

Golden State Warriors wing Damion Lee has put in the work, and now he’s starting to reap the benefits of his consistency.

According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Lee has signed a three-year contract with the Warriors, and there’s a partial guarantee for the 2020-21 season.

Lee was previously playing under a two-way contract, but because of injuries to other players, as well as his contributions this season, the Warriors have used him more often. He recently hit the 45-day limit two-way players are allotted to play with their respective NBA clubs.

As he’s waited for his standard contract to be finalized, Lee has not played with Golden State since the team’s Jan. 10 game against the Los Angeles Clippers.

A third-year player out of Louisville, Lee was also under a two-way contract last season with the Warriors.

This season, though, Lee has proven he can be a key role player in the league. He’s started a career-high 13 games, and he’s played 26.8 minutes a game. With Lee playing more, he’s shown his scoring and shooting abilities. He’s averaging a career-high 12.3 points per game and is shooting 36.0% from the 3-point line.

With Lee earning a bit more security, it shows the Warriors recognize his potential. The Warriors will play the Denver Nuggets in Golden State on Thursday at 10:30 p.m. EST.

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Full 2020 NBA Mock Draft: France’s Killian Hayes deserves your attention

We are getting closer to a point in the NCAA and international seasons to get a better idea of what the 2020 NBA Draft class may look like.

We are getting closer to a point in the NCAA and international seasons to get a better idea of what the 2020 NBA Draft class may look like.

Midway through the campaign, it is nearly impossible to predict early entrant decisions. But as the board begins to materialize with a more clear indication of who could be a legitimate help to NBA teams next season, it is worth it to revisit a full mock draft factoring in where each team will be selecting.

Note that some highly-rated freshmen (e.g. Florida’s Scottie Lewis and Tre Mann, Florida State’s Patrick Williams, LSU’s Trendon Watford, Kentucky’s Kahlil Whitney as well as Duke’s Wendell Moore and Matthew Hurt) were not included because of their disappointing first-year campaigns. As such, they are likely to return to school for a sophomore season and improve their draft stock to where it once was.

Typically, selecting the best player available was the biggest factor though team fit was also carefully considered.

Picks: 1 – 14 | Picks: 15 – 30 | Picks: 31 – 40 | Picks: 41 – 50 | Picks: 51 – 60 | Picks: 31 – 40 | Picks: 41 – 50 | Picks: 51 – 60

All stats are updated through January 14, 2020. The draft order is set via Tankathon on January 15, 2020. 

1. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS: LaMelo Ball, Illawarra Hawks

(Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images)

Guard, 6-foot-7, 18 years old 

This is a draft where the No. 1 pick might not be selected in that position in prior classes. While there may not be a unanimous selection at this point in the season like Zion Williamson was last season, the youngest Ball brother arguably has the highest ceiling of anyone in this class. He was nearly putting up a triple-double each appearance against professional basketball players in the NBL, scoring 17.1 points with 7.9 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game. He was not as accurate on his jumper as originally expected but he has also not a player who lacks confidence; expect him to keep shooting those and his three will develop over time. With his size and versatility on offense, he makes the most sense in the pole spot and his size would also allow him to guard bigger opponents, making him an option for nearly any team in the league even one as stacked as Golden State.

2. ATLANTA HAWKS: Anthony Edwards, Georgia

Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Wing, 6-foot-5, 18 years old 

Under head coach Tom Crean, the Georgia freshman has been a standout prospect. He is averaging 18.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game during his first collegiate season. But a lot of his output has been helped by his high usage rate. He is shooting just 28.1 percent on jump shots in a set offense, per Synergy, and is shooting just 24.6 percent off the dribble. He is also taking too many shots from deep midrange, shooting 25.8 percent on these looks. Fortunately, Edwards has been an above-average defender and is averaging 1.4 steals per game. The young star can stay in his hometown for this pick, too.

3. NEW YORK KNICKS: Killian Hayes, Ratiopharm Ulm

Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Guard, 6-foot-5, 18 years old

Hayes has exceptional court vision and instincts as well as a true point guard mentality to create opportunities for his teammates. He is averaging 17.2 points and 8.3 assists per 36 minutes while facing professional talent in the Euroleague. He is also capable of creating his own shot off the dribble and many of his own buckets have been unassisted. As noted by Bleacher Report draft expert Jonathan Wasserman, the prospect is shooting 153-of-178 (85.9 percent) on free throws since the start of his 2018-19 campaign. Hayes has a very natural shooting stroke and is someone whose hype should continue to grow.

4. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS: Onyeka Okongwu, USC 

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Big, 6-foot-9, 19 years old 

The player who has helped his draft stock the most is Okongwu, who is putting up 16.9 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. He has 32 dunks so far this season, which ranks sixth-best among all NCAA players and can be one of the more immediately impactful lob threats in the NBA. The big man is 13-for-18 (72.2 percent) when rolling to the basket in pick-and-roll sets, which shows how he can fit into a pro scheme. On the defensive end, his block percentage (10.7 percent) trails just one player in college basketball this year. He would play a fantastic two-man game with Darius Garland and he can help their frontcourt depth with the likely departure of Kevin Love.

5. WASHINGTON WIZARDS: RJ Hampton, New Zealand Breakers

(Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

Guard, 6-foot-5, 19 years old

The Washington Wizards are far from being close to a winning franchise but they do have extraordinary talent on the wing with Bradley Beal. If they add to that by selecting Hampton, who can develop under the leadership of Beal, the fans can sell some hope to a franchise that has gotten a taste of it with the impressive play of Rui Hachimura during his rookie campaign thus far. Like Hachimura, however, Hampton will need some time to develop.

6. DETROIT PISTONS: Tyrese Haliburton, Iowa State

Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports

Guard, 6-foot-5, 20 years old 

The Iowa State sophomore is one of the most polarizing prospects in recent memory. He is producing 16.6 points, 5.9 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game so far this season. The guard has been a solid shooter, connecting on 41.3 percent of his attempts from three-point range. His assist rate (39.1 percent) ranks Top 5 among all underclassmen in the NBA. Haliburton also fits the bill as perhaps the lengthiest guard in this draft class, measured with a 7-foot wingspan. As a defender, the guard is averaging 2.6 steals per game and his steal rate (4.0 percent) ranks third-best in the Big 12. He seems like a perfect point guard of the future for the rebuilding Pistons, who don’t have much of a direction.

7. CHICAGO BULLS: James Wiseman, USA 

(Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)

Big, 7-foot-1, 19 years old 

The biggest reason why Wiseman is this high on draft boards is that he was the No. 1 overall player on RSCI, which combines all of the top high school rankings in the country. The other biggest factor is his massive size, notably his 7-foot-6 wingspan. While it will be hard to see what else he is able to add to his game while he is away from the NCAA following an incredibly brief stint with the Memphis Tigers, he can be an appealing development project. Much like Edwards in New York, the bright lights of Chicago would be an awesome way for Wiseman to start his professional career.

8. CHARLOTTE HORNETS: Isaac Okoro, Auburn

(Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

Wing, 6-foot-6, 19 years old

The hyperathletic freshman wing has shown a nice mix of offensive and defensive upside for his undefeated Auburn team, averaging 13.2 points with 4.5 rebounds per game. His jump shot is still a work in progress but he is finishing well near the basket, connecting on 65-for-88 (73.9 percent) for looks within five feet of the basket. As a defender, he is elite guarding the perimeter and has also averaged 0.9 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. They need a strong defender alongside their young backcourt and after hitting well on the PJ Washington selection, this could be another fantastic pick.

9. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS: Obi Toppin, Dayton

Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Forward, 6-foot-9, 22 years old

The New Orleans Pelicans are going to be a team likely defined by Zion Williamson for years to come. Much like Williamson, Toppin is a high-flyer who currently leads the NCAA in dunks with 3.2 per game. But he won’t clog the paint from the dunker spot as he is averaging 2.6 three-point shot attempts per game. When determining potential fits for the Pelicans, it is worth considering their ability in transition offense because of their schemes. As such, it is important to note Toppin is 27-for-38 (71.1 percent) on these opportunities.

10. SACRAMENTO KINGS: Vernon Carey, Duke 

Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Big, 6-foot-10, 18 years old

The Kings could continue their tradition of drafting big men from Duke by adding Carey to the mix. He would join Marvin Bagley and Harry Giles as former Blue Devils in the frontcourt for Sacramento. Carey has been an elite college basketball player, averaging 17.4 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. He leads all freshmen in defensive rebound percentage (28.0 percent), ranks Top 5 among freshmen in total dunks (24) and Top 10 in block percentage (7.8 percent) as well. If he eventually adds a more constant three-pointer to his arsenal, he could be a starter in the NBA very soon.

11. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES: Nico Mannion, Arizona

(Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)

Guard, 6-foot-3, 19 years old 

Mannion is averaging 14.4 points and 6.3 assists per game, already an elite distributor at the NCAA level. He is a high-level scorer and passes well out of the pick-and-roll and his assist rate (36.5 percent) currently ranks as third-best among freshman so far this season. His assist-to-turnover ratio (2.3) is a good indication of his instincts. While he may be too young for a starting role next season, he is someone who projects in the first unit for a long time.

12. PHOENIX SUNS: Precious Achiuwa, Memphis

(Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)

Forward, 6-foot-9, 19 years old 

After the absence of Wiseman, the Memphis Tigers have turned to Achiuwa as the face of their team under Penny Hardaway. He has responded well and his defensive rebound percentage (25.4 percent) leads the American Athletic Conference. As a defender, his block percentage (7.4 percent) ranks third-best in the conference as well. He has turned it on as a scorer lately but he would not be leaned on as the primary option for a team with Devin Booker leading the charge.

13. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS: Aleksej Pokusevski, Olympiacos B

Forward, 7-foot, 18 years old 

One of the most fascinating, underrated prospects for the 2020 NBA Draft is currently playing in the Greek HEBA A2 league. With a 7-foot-3 wingspan, Pokusevski has the ability to play a bit bigger than his already impressive 7-foot frame. He is averaging 16.9 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 2.4 three-pointers per 36 minutes. The Serbian-born prospect has also connected on 32.6 percent from three-point range. As a defender, his size has helped him secure 2.8 blocks per 36 minutes as well. Portland could play him in several different places but could provide his most value as a necessary help on the wing.

14. SAN ANTONIO SPURS: Josh Green, Arizona

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Wing, 6-foot-6, 19 years old 

The Arizona freshman was a fantastic scorer on the AAU circuit playing for West Coast Elite, averaging 20.2 points per game. This season, he has put up 12.9 points per game for the Wildcats. Green has also grabbed 5.1 rebounds per game, which has allowed him to be an interesting option operating as the ball handler in a transition offense. Green is currently averaging 1.35 points per possession on these opportunities, per Synergy, which ranks in the 95th percentile. He also has a 6-foot-10 wingspan, which will help him a lot on the defensive side of the ball.

Picks: 15 – 30 | Picks: 31 – 40 | Picks: 41 – 50 | Picks: 51 – 60

MVP Race: Donovan Mitchell enters the picture

Each week, HoopsHype’s staff gives our Top 10 candidates for this year’s Most Valuable Player award. Which stars have stood out thus far?

Each week, HoopsHype’s staff gives the Top 10 candidates for this year’s Most Valuable Player award. This list highlights stars who are in the mix for the 2019-20 MVP award due to their impressive play.

Which stars have stood out? Here are our latest MVP rankings:

Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

10. DONOVAN MITCHELL, UTAH

STATS: 24.2 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 46.1 FG%

Over their last 15 games, the Utah Jazz have been the league’s best team in net rating, with a robust +10.5 mark and a 14-1 record to their name in that stretch. Prior to missing Utah’s last game and most of the contest prior to that due to illness, Donovan Mitchell was leading the way for the Jazz in their impressive turnaround, averaging 24.8 points and 6.0 assists over his last 13 full outings while shooting 51.7 percent from the floor. Mitchell’s assists are up over the past month because he’s taken over primary playmaking duties for Utah after offseason acquisition Mike Conley, who has been a disappointment so far in his first campaign with the Jazz, went out with injury. The new role has suited Mitchell well.

Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

9. KAWHI LEONARD, LA CLIPPERS

STATS: 25.8 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.9 SPG, 45.4 FG%

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard started the season off on a cold streak shooting from the outside, followed that up with a long stretch of accurate marksmanship and has now seen his accuracy from beyond the arc plummet again. Leonard has hit just nine of his last 38 attempts from three, good for a paltry 23.7-percent clip. It should come as no surprise, then, that the Clippers have struggled in those six outings Leonard has suited up in, going 3-3 in that stretch including a humiliating 26-point loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. On the season, L.A. has struggled to really get things going at an elite level because Leonard and his superstar running partner on the wing, Paul George, have only played together 18 times with both missing time due to injury and injury maintenance. In those 18 games, however, the Clippers boast a 14-4 record, indicating how nasty they are when they have their two All-NBA-caliber forwards available.

Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

8. DAMIAN LILLARD, PORTLAND

STATS: 26.7 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 7.6 APG, 3.4 3PTM, 44.1 FG%

As the Portland Trail Blazers’ season continues to go down the drain, Damian Lillard is doing his best to prevent things from truly bottoming out, ranking eighth league-wide in scoring, eighth in assists and fourth in total three-pointers. Portland, who sits at 16-24 on the year, is a bit lucky it’s a down year for the bottom of the West, though, so they’re only two games out of the eighth seed as we approach the All-Star break. Without Lillard’s superhuman efforts this season, the Blazers would be closer to fighting for the top pick in the 2020 draft than for a shot at the postseason.

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

7. JIMMY BUTLER, MIAMI

STATS: 20.7 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.9 SPG, 44.7 FG%

The numbers (those that indicated that the team’s record was vastly outpacing their production on both ends) finally caught up to the Miami Heat last week, as Miami followed up an impressive road win against the Indiana Pacers with back-to-back defeats at the hands of the Brooklyn Nets and, even more disappointingly, the New York Knicks. It’s hard to fault Jimmy Butler for the two losses, however, as the four-time All-Star averaged 29.0 points, 9.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists in those two games. It must be noted, though, that Butler’s shooting continues to be an issue on the year, as this stat would indicate:

With that said, it’s kind of insane that Butler still ranks among the Top-10 players in the league in multiple advanced metrics, including Value Over Replacement Player, Box Plus/Minus and Win Shares per 48 Minutes, despite his poor shooting.

Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

6. NIKOLA JOKIC, DENVER

STATS: 19.3 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 6.4 APG, 51.0 FG%

It was quite the productive week for Nikola Jokic, who has averaged 29.8 points, 10.3 rebounds and 5.8 assists on ridiculous 59.2/56.5/71.0 shooting splits over his last four games. Jokic’s massive jump in play over the past month and change has helped propel the Denver Nuggets to a 27-12 record, the league’s No. 9 net rating and the No. 2 seed in the West. As such, Jokic has seen his placement in our weekly MVP rankings increase every week for the past month.

Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

5. LUKA DONCIC, DALLAS

STATS: 29.1 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 9.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, 46.8 FG%

It was a rough week for Luka Doncic, shooting-wise, as the Slovenian star has made just three of his last 15 three-point attempts and shot under 40 percent from the floor in that stretch. With Doncic’s struggles, the Dallas Mavericks have likewise hit a rough patch over the past week, dropping two out of three games, though their last contest was a solid bounce-back win for Dallas against the Philadelphia 76ers. Like Doncic recently said after a humbling defeat against the Los Angeles Lakers, even despite his insane production early on in his career, he still has a lot of areas he can improve. That’s a scary thought considering as is, he’s already posting a near 29/10/9 stat line, but it’s true. That’s how insane his upside is.

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

4. ANTHONY DAVIS, LA LAKERS

STATS: 27.1 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 3.2 APG, 1.5 SPG, 2.6 BPG, 50.4 FG%

Anthony Davis’ last few games don’t give us much to discuss, considering he’s missed time with a bruised tailbone, but for the season as a whole, the Lakers power forward has looked like one of the very best players in the league. Sure, he’s done that before, but this season, Davis has proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that he can do it on a contender, unlike his time with the New Orleans Pelicans. On the season, Davis’ is the league’s highest-scoring pure big man (the player coming up at the top of our list is still more of a wing than a big) while ranking second in blocks and fourth in paint points. Few players can match Davis’ two-way dominance this campaign.

Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

3. LEBRON JAMES, LA LAKERS

STATS: 25.4 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 10.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 48.8 FG%

The league leader in assists per game, LeBron James is winning the ongoing battle against Father Time, proving that age is nothing but a number by dominating even as he hit 35 years old. We’ll let Butler, who came up at No. 7 in this ranking as in an elite player in his own right, explain in his own words what makes James so good:

“So … the five toughest players I’ve ever guarded. Let’s get to it. LeBron James, Positionless, Los Angeles Lakers. I didn’t want to talk about LeBron here. I really didn’t. I wanted to give some other guys some shine. But you can’t have a 5 Toughest list and not have LeBron on it. He’s still the best all-around player in the league. He literally does everything well. He can shoot. Pass. Attack the rim. Defend. You need a bucket? LeBron’s got you. You need a rebound, a steal or a block? He’s got you. Whatever you need, whenever you need it. Bron’s got you. When you talk about a combination of speed and athleticism, plus a combo of strength and explosiveness, you gotta start with LeBron.”

Couldn’t have said it any better ourselves, Jimmy.

Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

2. JAMES HARDEN, HOUSTON

STATS: 37.7 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 7.5 APG, 1.8 SPG, 38 3PT%

For the first time in a long time, James Harden laid an egg last week, dropping 17 points on 17 field-goal attempts in a 21-point loss for the Houston Rockets against the Oklahoma City Thunder. It came at an inopportune time for The Beard, at least as far as these rankings go, because Harden came close to surpassing the top player on our list last week before falling further behind in this week’s edition. It should be noted: Harden bounced back quickly from that stinker, dropping 32 points on 17 field-goal tries two nights later in what was a 30-point win for Houston.

Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

1. GIANNIS ANTETOKOUNMPO, MILWAUKEE

STATS: 29.8 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.1 BPG, 55 FG%

The Milwaukee Bucks don’t usually dominate headlines, unless it’s the media discussing whether or not Giannis Antetokounmpo could leave one day as a free agent, which is unfortunate, because, as it turns out, they’ve been by far the best team in the league this season while being led by the Greek Freak. Antetokounmpo isn’t just the league’s No. 2 player in scoring average or No. 6 player in rebounding average or an improved shooter making over 32 percent of his three-point looks, he’s also a leading candidate for Defensive Player in the Year, as the Bucks boast the league’s stingiest defense thanks to Antetokounmpo’s prowess on that end. Simply put: Antetokoumpo dominates in just about every facet of basketball on a nightly basis, and that should get talked about more often than his free agency, which is still a decent amount of time away.

You can follow Frank Urbina on Twitter: @FrankUrbina_.

Los Angeles Clippers at Denver Nuggets odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Los Angeles Clippers at Denver Nuggets sports betting odds and lines, with NBA betting picks, tips and best bets.

On Sunday night, two of the best teams in the Western Conference will square off as the Los Angeles Clippers (27-12) travel to Pepsi Center to take on the Denver Nuggets (26-12). We analyze the Clippers-Nuggets sports betting odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGVIxK0x7i8&w=560&h=315]


Get some action on this game or others by placing a bet at BetMGM.


Clippers at Nuggets Key injuries

Clippers

  • SF Paul George (hamstring) out
  • PF JaMychal Green (knee) questionable

Nuggets

  • PF Paul Millsap (knee) out

Clippers at Nuggets: Odds, lines, picks, and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated Sunday at 1:25 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Clippers 115, Nuggets 113

Moneyline (ML)

This is a pick ’em with both sides getting -110 odds. Considering how close these two teams are, either bet makes some sense. However, I’m taking the CLIPPERS (-11) due to their top-five ranked offense and their ability to shut down teams in the fourth quarter.

 Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The Nuggets (-1.5, +100) are very slight favorites on the spread. While both teams have the same number of wins this season, it’s the CLIPPERS (+1.5, -121) who have been better against the spread (21-18). I think this game is going to come down to free-throw shooting, so give me the 1.5 points and the Clippers.

Over/Under (O/U)

The total for this potential Western Conference playoff matchup is set at 221.5. That number feels slightly too low, considering the pace at which this game will likely be played. Both teams have no problem scoring, and the OVER 221.5 (-115) has become a very common pick in Denver this season. Look for this game to be high-scoring and close into the fourth quarter.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Marcus_Mosher and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship, and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Cleveland Cavaliers at Denver Nuggets odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s Cleveland Cavaliers at Denver Nuggets sports betting odds and lines, with NBA matchup analysis, picks and tips.

The Cleveland Cavaliers (11-27) and Denver Nuggets (26-11) do battle at Pepsi Center Saturday evening at 9 p.m. ET. We analyze the Cavaliers-Nuggets odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGVIxK0x7i8&w=560&h=315]


Get some action on this game or others by placing a bet at BetMGM.


Cavaliers at Nuggets: Key injuries

Cavaliers

  • PG Dante Exum (illness) questionable
  • PF Larry Nance Jr. (knee) out
  • SF Kevin Porter Jr. (knee) out
  • SG Dylan Windler (shin) out

Nuggets

  • SG/SF Will Barton (personal) probable
  • PF Paul Millsap (knee) out
  • C Bol Bol (oblique) out

Cavaliers at Nuggets: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 10:00 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Nuggets 121, Cavaliers 103

Moneyline (ML)

The Nuggets (-834) are heavy favorites, and you have to risk eight times your return. That’s just too expensive. AVOID.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The NUGGETS (-12.5, -110) host the lowly Cavaliers (+12.5, -110), a team they drummed last season by an average of more than 20 points per game in each of the two meetings. The beatings will continue, as C Nikola Jokic should be able to do whatever he pleases against a soft middle for the Cavs.

The Cavs are 1-4 ATS in their past five against winning teams. While the Nuggets are 0-4-2 ATS in the past six at home, they’re 7-2 ATS in the past nine at home after a road trip of a week or longer. The Nuggets are also 4-1 ATS in the past five meetings, too.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER is the play as the Cavaliers offer very little resistance. The over has hit in five of the past seven in this series, and it’s 9-3 in Cleveland’s last 12 on the road. It hit in Cleveland’s overtime win in Detroit last time out. The over has hit in five in a row for Cleveland, too, and six of the past seven overall for Denver, while going 5-2 in the past seven at home for the Nuggets.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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