Nuggets vs. Bulls Prediction and Odds: Denver Can't Overcome Injury Issues in Chicago

UPDATE: DeMar DeRozan is inactive for tonight's game after being placed in the NBA's COVID-19 Health & Safety protocols.

The Denver Nuggets have a strong talented team but it seems like the whole lot is pretty banged up right now. They head to Chicago tonight with a depleted roster to take on the surging Chicago Bulls. 

Denver will be without the services of Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr, and PJ Dozier along with new additions Bol Bol, Austin Rivers, and Bones Hyland. The latter two are out due to COVID protocols. Meanwhile, reigning MVP Nikola Jokic is on an island right now; leading the league in PER< EPM and win shares; but is just one man. 

That one man was enough to beat up on the Knicks 113-99, but the Bulls are a much better team. Chicago is currently on a two-game win streak with victories over the Knicks and Nets on the road. They head home tonight and should have a field day with this depleted Nuggets roster. 

Here are the odds for this clash of East vs West, courtesy of WynnBET: 

Nuggets vs. Bulls Odds, Spread, and Total

Spread:

• Nuggets: +4.0 (-110)
• Bulls: -4.0 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Nuggets: 150
• Bulls: -170

Total: 

• 215.5 (Over -110/Under -110)

Nuggets vs. Bulls Prediction and Pick

The Nuggets’ injuries have derailed what could have been a very strong season. Now, saying that Jokic is all alone was a bit of an exaggeration but his teammates need to step up. Aaron Gordon, for example, is a very talented player who is struggling to remain in the Top-100 and scored just five points against the Knicks. 

Also, the Nuggets aren’t the only ones dealing with COVID-related absences. Javonte Green and Coby White are also out due to protocols and Alex Caruso is dealing with a hamstring issue. Where the Bulls should shine tonight is in the transition game and in defending Jokic. Nikola Vucevic and Tony Bradley will do all they can to keep the reigning MVP away from the basket. While neither are good enough to contain him, the pair can hopefully slow him down enough to make a difference. 

I think that is enough for the Bulls to win their third in a row and cover the four points. They are healthier, more complete, and playing better together. Add to that some home-court advantage and I feel very good about Chicago tonight.

PICK: Chicago Bulls -4.0 (-110)