Friday night’s Nuggets vs. 76ers matchup will be the first of tonight’s NBA double header on ESPN. With the 76ers catching 8.5 points as a home underdog and the total sitting at 231.5, what’s the smart bet tonight at Wells Fargo Center?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Denver Nuggets (-8.5) at Philadelphia 76ers (+8.5); o/u 231.5
7:30 p.m. ET, Friday, January 31, 2025
Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA
TV: ESPN
Nuggets vs. 76ers Public Betting: Bettors Backing Cleveland
Our NBA Public Betting Information page indicates that 57% of public bettors are currently backing the 76ers when it comes to the spread. This information is subject to change throughout the day, however, so be sure to check the link so you’re receiving the most up-to-date public betting data.
Jokic scores 17 points in loss to Knicks
Nikola Jokic shot 6-of-15 from the field and 2-of-2 from the foul line in Wednesday’s loss to the Knicks, scoring 17 points with six rebounds, six assists, two steals, one block, and three 3-pointers in 33 minutes. Wednesday’s performance was subpar by Jokic’s lofty standards, and early foul trouble did him no favors. The three-time MVP was whistled for two fouls in the first 1:21, with Christian Braun replacing him in the lineup with 9:48 remaining in the first quarter. Jokic did not return until there was 7:14 to go in the second, and the nine minutes are the fewest he’s played in the first half of a game since 2020. The Joker did record a complete stat line, but many fantasy managers took an unexpected hit on Wednesday.
Embiid will not play vs. Denver
Joel Embiid (knee) will not play in Friday’s game against Denver. While Embiid’s knee reportedly “responded well” to treatment, he still hasn’t reached the point where he can play games. With Andre Drummond (toe) also out, the 76ers will continue to rely on the tandem or Guerrschon Yabusele and Adem Bona to handle the center responsibilities. Yabusele needs to be rostered in standard leagues, as Embiid does not have a timeline for return.
Nuggets vs. 76ers NBA Prediction:
Take the over. The over has cashed in three out of the last five meetings between these two teams. One of those games came earlier this month in Denver when the Nuggets beat the 76ers, 144-109. The over is also 6-4 in the Nuggets’ last 10 games overall and also cashed in six out of Philadelphia’s last 10 games.
Nuggets vs. 76ers Betting Prediction: OVER 231.5