Perhaps the two most in-from teams in the Western Conference face off tonight, as a battle of MVP hopefuls is going down between Doncic’s Dallas Mavericks and Jokic’s Denver Nuggets. Not only have these two teams started off the season on fire, but both stars have also put in stellar performances, with Jokic already dropping two triple doubles, and Doncic scoring a season-high 49 points against the Nets. This is a big matchup for both sides, having rested for two days coming into this game. Importantly, Dallas will look to keep its winning streak going, as they have not lost yet this season, like Boston. Denver on the other hand lost to Minnesota last time out, and are looking to redeem themselves.

Denver will focus their play around Jokic, as neither Kleber nor Powell will be able to contain him defensively. However, Jamal Murray will also need to tread carefully, as Doncic has been dropping 30+ points wherever he wants. The offensive firepower of both teams will ensure that this will be a cracking matchup. Dallas have focused their play on outscoring teams so far, as they’ve averaged 123 points a game. This tactic will likely not work against Denver’s size, with Gordon and Porter Jr supporting Jokic in the starting 5. It may not be that simple though: if Doncic has an extraordinary game, it is likely Dallas could win. It is not out of the realm of possibility that the Slovenian superstar has another 40+ point-game. If that happens, Jokic will need to counter with his own statline, and assist as well as drop a hefty amount of points.

Playing at Denver in altitude, we have the Nuggets as slight favourites in this matchup, but watch out for Dallas. This battle of MVP hopefuls may well end up deciding who is the early front-runner for the coveted award. These two European giants of the game have been among the most entertaining stars in recent seasons. Dallas missed out completely on the playoffs last year, while Denver were eventually crowned champions. The Mavs look like they are seriously looking to avenge last season’s failures with their start so far. However, challenging for the Nuggets’ crown will be far from easy.

Dallas Mavericks to win – 3.30

Denver Nuggets to win – 1.35