Heat vs. Nuggets Game 2 odds, prediction, best bets
The Denver Nuggets came out victorious in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Miami Heat, as I predicted in my preview. The Heat appeared exhausted following their previous seven-game series with Boston, causing Jimmy Butler to appear timid and the Heat’s role players to struggle. Denver’s offense was unstoppable, which proved to be Miami’s biggest challenge. However, both teams have adjustments to make leading up to Game 2. With positive shooting regression and more attempts to attack the rim, both teams should show improvements in their scoring. The total for Game 2 has been set lower than Game 1, but I anticipate a higher-scoring game and suggest taking advantage of the reduced number.
FAQs:
What was the result of Game 1 between the Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets in the NBA Finals?
The Denver Nuggets won and covered the NBA Finals opener.
What adjustments do both teams need to make leading up to Game 2?
Miami needs to attack the rim more and attempt more free throws, which is uncharacteristic for a team led by Jimmy Butler. Meanwhile, Denver needs to improve their shooting luck, which caused their offensive numbers to be dragged down.
What is the suggested betting pick for Game 2?
The total for Game 2 has been set lower than Game 1, but it is anticipated to be a higher-scoring game. It is suggested to take advantage of the reduced number and bet on the over 215 (-110) or play to 218 (-110).

Game 2 Odds, Prediction, and Top Bets for Heat Versus Nuggets
In the NBA Finals opener, the Nuggets won and covered, just as predicted in the preview by the writer of this piece for the New York Post.
The Heat appeared exhausted following their seven-game series with Boston, with Jimmy Butler looking timid and Miami’s role players struggling, leading to a much-needed shooting regression. Most importantly, Miami couldn’t stop Denver’s offense.
The Heat will need to adjust in Game 2. However, the Nuggets have areas to improve as well. If both teams make the right adjustments, a higher-scoring game is likely.
Odds via Caesars.
Heat vs. Nuggets Game 2 Pick
(8:00 p.m. ET, ABC)
Both teams performed well in Game 1. With the Heat using Bam Adebayo in the pick-and-roll for dominance, the Heat big man finished with 26 points on 25 shots, excelling at the rim and from the mid-range as he took advantage of Nikola Jokic’s defensive mistakes. Meanwhile, Denver posted a 55.7% effective field goal rate and a 114.4 Offensive Rating, handling Miami’s zone defense with ease.
However, both teams have room for improvement in Game 2. Both teams should be positively impacted by shooting regression, with the Heat seeing numerous struggles from their role players and the Nuggets had tough shooting nights from Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Furthermore, the Heat needs to attack the rim more while the Nuggets could benefit from more 3-pointers.
The Game 1 total closed at 218, and while the books set the total a few points lower as a reaction, a higher-scoring Game 2 is expected.
Heat vs. Nuggets Game 2 Pick
Over 215 (-110) | Play to 218 (-110)