October 16th 10:00 NBA Preseason Denver Oklahoma US Professional Basketball Analysis Sports Analysis
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⏺️ Denver
Denver suffered a 114-118 defeat to Phoenix, marking their third consecutive loss in the preseason. Although Murray complained of a knee injury during the game, it cannot be solely blamed for the loss, especially since Phoenix played without key players like Booker and Durant. While Phoenix's three-point shooting was incredibly effective, it is noteworthy that Denver struggled to control shooting opportunities for their opponents and their bench did not show consistent productivity.
※ Murray (knee) DTD
⏺️ OKC
Oklahoma City achieved a resounding 117-89 victory against the New Zealand Breakers, resting all their starters due to a back-to-back schedule. While the inconsistent performance of bench players over the three preseason games was disappointing, the new additions, Hartenschein and Caruso, performed well and integrated smoothly with SGA and Dort, which is a positive aspect.
※ Jalen Williams (hamstring) and K. Williams (knee) are expected to miss the game.
✅ Conclusion
Jamal Murray is injured, and concerns regarding Denver's bench depth this season are greater than last. Thus, even in a home game, they are not favored. So, will OKC win as the odds suggest? I recommend looking at this game from a different perspective.
First, even though it's the preseason, can Denver really afford to lose four in a row? At this point, it's a matter of pride.
Second, it won't be easy for OKC to assert their size advantage over Denver. To complicate things for Denver's frontcourt, OKC's forwards need to step up and challenge Jokic. But will OKC really make that choice during the preseason?
Third, this is Ball Arena, where Denver boasted an 80% win rate last season. It should be considered that Denver is likely trying to turn around their worst preseason atmosphere today.
✅ Denver win
✅ Denver +2.5 handicap win
✅ 224.5 over