The Nuggets head to the Moda Center for a rematch of the Western Conference semifinals against the Trail Blazers to open the regular season. Motivation to get a win over the team that eliminated them aside, the Nuggets are just the better team.

Denver finished last season ranked 10th in defensive efficiency, allowing just 1.059 points per possession, and during the preseason they continued to emphasize play on the defensive end of the floor. The Nuggets allowed just .918 points per possession in their four preseason games, and they clearly have the edge on defense in this contest. Portland, maybe not emphasizing defensive play during the preseason, allowed 1.033 points per possession.

The Trail Blazers could be up against it trying to contain the Denver’s offense regardless of their preseason play. Nikola Jokic taking on Hassan Whiteside should be a mismatch that works in Denver’s favor, and if Jokic is cooking that opens up the offense for the Nuggets as a whole.

Take the point here with the road team.

The play: Nuggets, +1