Is Jamal Murray Playing? Jamal Murray is expected to play for the Nuggets after suffering a minor hand injury in Game 3. The Heat will host the Nuggets for Game 4 of the NBA Finals before heading back to Denver for Game 5. The game is expected to tip-off at 08:30 PM ET, Friday, June 9th, 2023.
Given that Miami are at home, it’s surprising they are a 3 point underdog, with many expecting Denver to extend their series lead out to 3-1.
MATCH PREVIEW
The Nuggets are just two wins away from their first NBA title, thanks to outstanding performances from their top players. Nikola Jokic and Murray made history in their last game, with Jokic becoming the first player ever to record a 30-point, 20-rebound, and 10-assist triple-double in an NBA Finals game.
Murray also shone with a game-high 34 points, completing the first instance of two teammates scoring 30 points in a triple-double game. The Nuggets now hold a 2-1 series lead over the Heat and are determined to secure back-to-back wins on the road.
Denver’s dominance extended beyond their star players’ performances, as they controlled the game in the paint and on the boards. They outrebounded the Heat 58-33 and outscored them 60-34 in points in the paint.
Miami, once a resilient underdog, seems to be struggling as they have lost five out of their last seven games after a strong start to the playoffs. The Heat will need to regroup and find a way to contain Jokic and Murray if they want to mount a comeback in the series.
With the potential to take a commanding 3-1 lead, the Nuggets are focused on their ultimate goal of winning the championship. They are aware of the challenge that lies ahead in Miami and are prepared to deliver a supreme effort to secure victory.
The Heat, on the other hand, will need to rally and draw on their previous resilience to overcome their recent struggles and find a way to slow down Denver’s dynamic duo.
ODDS AND PREDICTIONS
The Heat have shown resilience in their shooting performances during the playoffs, bouncing back after two subpar outings. In Game 4 against the NY Knicks, they responded with a solid 47 percent shooting, securing a 109-101 win.
Similarly, in Game 7 against the Celtics, they shot 49 percent from the field, including 50 percent from three-point range, resulting in a convincing 103-84 victory. These strong offensive displays not only led to wins but also allowed Miami to cover the spread, maintaining a 1-1 over/under record.
The Nuggets’ defense, while not considered elite for a team competing in the NBA Finals, is offset by their impressive offensive capabilities. However, this opens up opportunities for Miami to have a more productive shooting night.
Miami has shown their ability to bounce back, going 3-1 against the spread (ATS) after scoring fewer than 100 points, including a notable victory in Game 2 against Denver.
Furthermore, Miami has excelled as a home underdog this season, boasting a 7-3 ATS record in such games. Despite the praise received by the Nuggets after their impressive Game 3 performance, it would be unwise to overlook Miami’s track record as a home underdog, therefore it seems favorable to take the points with Miami in Game 4.
Spread: Nuggets -3
Moneyline: Heat +120, Nuggets -142
Pick: Miami +3
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