The Denver Nuggets have drawn a ton of attention in the national media as Nikola Jokic seems set to win his third-straight MVP Award. Point guard Jamal Murray, who has looked incredibly accurate lately, has helped Jokic run up the score in the assist column — but he should take a step back tonight. Bettors hunting out a strong NBA player prop for Wednesday’s Bulls-Nuggets game should tail the prediction below — FanDuel has left a bit too much value on the Jamal Murray player prop markets. Make sure to check out OddsShopper’s tools for other sharp plays.
Best Bulls-Nuggets NBA Player Prop | Jamal Murray
Jamal Murray O/U 25.5 Points & Rebounds
After missing all of last season with a torn ACL, Jamal Murray is starting to look like his former self. But even his former self could have an off night, and that’s what I’m predicting for him against the Chicago Bulls. That said, Murray is averaging 20.3 points and 4 rebounds (24.3) on the year and 20.5 points and 3.2 rebounds since the All-Star Break (23.7), so he can still have an average showing and cash this prop for us — the number has just gotten a squeeze too inflated.
Chicago’s defense has caused problems for opposing point guards all season. The Bulls rank third-best in points allowed to the position on the year (22.3) but sixth-worst in rebounds allowed (6.6). However, they rank second-best in points allowed (16.8) and only 14th-worst in rebounds allowed (6.3) through the last seven games. The backcourt pairing of Alex Caruso and Patrick Beverley has often kept opposing ones off the scoreboard.
Chicago has also started to play slower basketball. The Bulls rank 16th in pace on the season but 27th through the last seven games. Their defense has also controlled the paint through that span — they have allowed the second-fewest field goals per game in the restricted area (13.9) and the fewest in the non-restricted paint (4.3). Midrange and perimeter defense have been an issue, but 37.9% of Murray’s shots and 44.6% of his made shots have come from within the paint.
The Bulls suffered a brutal home loss to the Indiana Pacers on Sunday but have had plenty of rest to lick their wounds. Chicago is 7-5 to the under with a rest advantage and 8-4 to the under with 2-3 days of rest. The Bulls also won’t play again until Saturday, so expect them to make a stand on defense as they sit two games out of the Eastern Conference play-in tournament. Bettors can get the under at -113 at FanDuel Sportsbook. Readers who are yet to register at FanDuel can bet $20 and get $200 in bonus wagers.
Best Bulls-Nuggets Player Prop: Jamal Murray Under 25.5 Points & Rebounds (-113 for 0.5 Unit) at FanDuel
