Boston Celtics vs Denver Nuggets: Match Preview and Predictions - 22nd November 2019

Match details

Fixture: Boston Celtics vs Denver Nuggets

Date & Time: Friday, 22 November 2019 (9:00 PM ET)

Venue: Pepsi Center, Denver, CO

Last game results

Boston Celtics (11-3): 104-107 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers (20 November, Wednesday)

Denver Nuggets (10-3): 105-95 win over the Houston Rockets (20 November, Wednesday)

Boston Celtics Preview

After losing a heartbreaking game to the Sacramento Kings, Boston Celtics went the distance with the star-studded lineup of the Los Angeles Clippers in their recent bout - only to fall short again down the stretch.

Brad Stevens' men have been playing some quality basketball on both ends of the floor, fairly justifying their top spot in the East standings with an 11-3 (0.786) win-loss record to their name. They are shooting a sliver above 48% from the floor, stacking almost 111 points per game so far this year.

Key Player - Jayson Tatum

Tatum is making up for his no-show last season

Jayson Tatum came up with a blistering performance of 30 points and 6 rebounds in a thrilling clash against the mighty Clippers. His confidence and footwork have been elite ever since this season has tipped off.

Courtesy of a dominant run, the 21-year-old is averaging career-high numbers in 20.9 points and 7.4 rebounds across the 14 games played so far. Playing almost 35 minutes per contest, Tatum is turning into a difference-maker for his team in crunch situations. His nerves of steel are backed by exemplary poise, making him an especially dangerous player.

Celtics predicted lineup

Daniel Theis, Jayson Tatum, Kemba Walker, Marcus Smart, Jaylen Brown

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Denver Nuggets Preview

The Denver Nuggets are playing at full strength. Gary Harris, Will Barton and Paul Millsap have all returned to the lineup, and the result looks scary.

Carrying a top 5 defense in the league, the Nuggets recently limited James Harden to just 27 points while handing the Houston Rockets a deflating loss. They have won seven of their last 10 games, recording statement wins over the Philadelphia Sixers, Miami Heat, Houston Rockets and Brooklyn Nets among others.

Nikola Jokic and Co. are 10-3 (0.769) to start the season, which places them at the second spot on the Western Conference standings - behind the surging Los Angeles Lakers.

Key Player - Nikola Jokic

Jokic is redefining versatility at the center position

Despite a noticeable drop in numbers, Nikola Jokic is averaging a near-double-double of 17.2 points, 9 rebounds and 5.8 assists per game, having started in all the 13 games played so far.

The Serbian center posted an imposing 27-point double-double against the Rockets defense. He made his presence felt in the paint and also stretched the floor with his impeccable court vision.

Jokic is attempting three-point shots at a career-high rate (4.7) this year, and even though they are not falling consistently, he has still been able to tip the scales in his team's favour on a nightly basis.

Nuggets predicted lineup

Paul Millsap, Jamal Murray, Gary Harris, Nikola Jokic, Will Barton

Celtics vs Nuggets Match Prediction

The Celtics are playing hard. Having lost two games they should have easily bagged, the visitors would be stoked to get back on track by beating a sturdy Nuggets side in their arena.

Despite Kemba Walker not clicking on all cylinders, Boston are still one of the toughest two-way teams to beat at the moment. They should be expected to come out winners in what will likely be a thrilling game to watch either way.

Where to Watch Celtics vs Nuggets?

There will be local coverage of the game on NBC Sports Boston and Altitude from 9:00 PM (ET). You can also live stream the game via NBA League Pass.