Opinion
3 min read

Can the Denver Nuggets Blaze Past Portland at Ball Arena?

As the Denver Nuggets gear up to face the Portland Trail Blazers at Ball Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can continue their impressive form. The Nuggets have been on a roll, as evidenced by their recent performances. On Christmas Day 2023, they secured a victory against the Golden State Warriors with a score of 120-114. This win was marked by an efficient offensive display and solid defense, with the team recording an efficiency game score of 98.6.


DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 17:  Zeke Nnaji #22 the Denver Nuggets goes to the basket against Drew Eubanks #24 of the Portland Trail Blazers in the second quarter at Ball Arena on January 17, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

The Nuggets' ability to control games has been notable; they led for over 34 minutes against the Warriors and managed to out-rebound them with a total of 52 rebounds compared to Golden State's 46. Their fast-break opportunities were also capitalized upon effectively, scoring at a rate of 73 percent from such plays.


In another remarkable performance on December 24th against the Charlotte Hornets, Denver showcased its defensive prowess with an astounding number of blocks (13) and steals (11), contributing significantly to their win (102-95). The defensive rating in that game was particularly impressive at just over 92 points per possession allowed.


DENVER, CO - JANUARY 17: Damian Lillard (0) of the Portland Trail Blazers reacts to being called for a foul against the Denver Nuggets during the fourth quarter of Denvers 122-113 win at Ball Arena in Denver on Tuesday, January 17, 2023. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images)

Just one day prior on December 23rd, facing off against Brooklyn Nets away from home didn't deter DEN either; they emerged victorious with a scoreline of 122-117. Their offensive rating soared above average at approximately 127 points per possession while maintaining good ball security with only six turnovers throughout the game.


The upcoming match presents another opportunity for DEN to assert its dominance in front of home fans. With players showing great synergy on court and an assists turnover ratio that has consistently hovered around high values – peaking at nearly five in their clash against BKN – it's clear that teamwork is one key aspect driving this team forward.


DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 17: Damian Lillard #0 of the Portland Trail Blazers goes to the basket against Jamal Murray #27 of the Denver Nuggets in the third quarter at Ball Arena on January 17, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

However, it would be remiss not to acknowledge POR's capabilities as well; any opponent should be wary when facing them. Yet given DEN’s recent form and home-court advantage where they've shown themselves capable both offensively and defensively across different facets of play – from scoring in paint to second-chance points – there is every reason for optimism among Nugget supporters.


Fans eagerly anticipating this matchup should mark their calendars for February 5th when these two teams will clash at Ball Arena starting at 8:30 PM ET. The game will be broadcasted nationally on NBA TV channel number is not provided here due to rules restriction but local fans can tune into ALT or ROOT Sports NW depending on your location for all live-action coverage.

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