GST Staff

Nuggets vs. Pelicans Prediction, Odds, Best Prop Bets December 22, 2024

Reeling Pelicans Host Potent Nuggets Offense

Game Preview

The struggling New Orleans Pelicans (5-23) look to snap their five-game skid as they host the Denver Nuggets (14-11) on Sunday night. The Pelicans have endured a dismal season so far, averaging just 105.4 points while allowing a hefty 117.1 points per contest. Their offensive woes continue, shooting a paltry 43.8 percent from the field and 33.4 percent from three-point range over the full season.

New Orleans' recent form has been even more concerning, going 1-9 over their last 10 games while getting outscored by nearly 13 points per game. Their shooting numbers have dipped further, hitting just 43.4 percent of field goals and a mere 32.6 percent of threes during this stretch. Worse yet, the Pelicans have been ice cold from the charity stripe at 74.2 percent over their past 10 outings.

In contrast, the Nuggets arrive in the Big Easy playing solid basketball, sporting a 14-11 record and winners of 3 of their last 5. Denver has thrived on a balanced attack, averaging 119.4 points per game while shooting an impressive 49.8 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from deep. They've been sharing the rock effectively too, dishing out 31 assists per contest.

Over their last 10 games, the Nuggets have been even more potent on offense, pouring in 122.3 points per game on blistering 52.6 percent shooting overall and 35.9 percent from beyond the arc. Their 32 assists per game during this stretch highlights their unselfish play. With the Pelicans reeling, Denver's balanced, high-octane offense could be primed for another big night.