Denver Nuggets @ Phoenix Suns - February 8, 2025

As we gear up for the matchup between the Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center, there’s a lot to unpack. The Nuggets come into this game as -3.5-point favorites, reflecting their current form and overall standing in the league. With a record of 33-19 straight up (SU) and having won five consecutive games, they seem poised to maintain their momentum against a Suns team that has struggled with consistency.

The offensive stats tell an interesting story. The Nuggets are averaging 121 points per game on an impressive shooting percentage of approximately 50.8%. Their ability to generate assists (31.2 per game) indicates strong ball movement and teamwork, which is crucial when facing a defense like Phoenix’s that allows 113 points per game despite some decent defensive metrics. The Suns’ shooting percentages—47.6% from the field and 37.8% from three—are respectable but not enough to match what Denver brings offensively.

Defensively, both teams have their strengths, but the Nuggets edge out slightly in key areas such as total rebounds (45.5 versus Phoenix’s 42.3) and steals (8.4 compared to 7.5). While turnovers are relatively similar for both teams, with each losing around 14 per game, it’s worth noting that Denver commits fewer fouls on average than Phoenix does (17.4 vs 18.2). This could play a significant role in how the game unfolds, particularly if foul trouble becomes an issue for either side.

Looking at recent performances gives us further insight into what we might expect tonight: Denver covered the spread against Orlando with a solid win while also keeping the total score under at just 202 points—a stark contrast to Phoenix’s last outing where they triumphed over Utah with a high-scoring affair that ended at 262 points total.

Given these trends, I predict that the Nuggets will not only secure victory but will also cover the spread comfortably tonight against the Suns—who have been struggling lately with just two wins in their last six games SU and ATS combined.

Additionally, considering both teams’ propensity for scoring recently—with Phoenix going over in five consecutive games—the expectation is set for this contest to exceed its opening total of 234.5 points as well.

In summary: I’m leaning towards a robust performance from Denver tonight; they should emerge victorious while covering that spread—and don’t be surprised if we see plenty of scoring action leading us toward an OVER outcome as well!