Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
The Denver Nuggets have lost three of their last five games and have dropped to third place in the Western Conference behind the Los Angeles Lakers. Meanwhile, the Sacramento Kings are in great form, riding a four-game winning streak and pushing for a top-six finish despite missing Domantas Sabonis. Given their momentum, the Kings have a solid chance to extend their success.
Denver Nuggets
After a nine-game winning streak, the Nuggets have slowed down, suffering defeats to the Los Angeles Lakers (100:123), Milwaukee Bucks (112:121), and Boston Celtics (103:110). Late-game struggles have been costly in their recent losses, and concerns about Nikola Jokić’s condition are growing—he was limping during the game against the Celtics. Without Jokić, the Nuggets' winning percentage drops significantly (only 33%). They rely heavily on traditional pick-and-roll plays, leading to one of the lowest three-point attempt rates in the league (31.5 per game, ranked 30th).
Sacramento Kings
The Kings are on a four-game winning streak, securing all victories by 10+ points. While their recent opponents weren’t among the league's elite (Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, Charlotte Hornets), the Kings’ current form is impressive. Zach LaVine has been particularly dominant, averaging 26.5 points during this stretch. However, the Kings will be without Domantas Sabonis, the NBA’s leading rebounder (14.1 per game). Jonas Valančiūnas will take over in the paint, but he lacks the mobility and playmaking of Sabonis.
Denver Nuggets vs Sacramento Kings Prediction
The Denver Nuggets remain a slight favourite, but their recent struggles and Jokić’s potential absence give the Sacramento Kings a strong chance to keep this game close. The last two meetings between these teams ended in the Nuggets' favour, but the margin never exceeded nine points. Given the circumstances, backing the Kings with a handicap looks like the best option.