Washington-wizards vs Denver Nuggets Picks and Predictions December 7th 2024

Wizards Host Nuggets, Aim to Avoid Franchise Infamy

The Washington Wizards will try to avoid setting a franchise record for consecutive losses when they host the Denver Nuggets on Saturday in Washington, D.C.

Wizards’ Historic Struggles

The Wizards have tied their all-time losing streak at 16 games, matching a mark set during the 2009-10 season. Another loss would push them into uncharted territory, as they remain mired in last place in the Eastern Conference.

Despite the grim record, head coach Brian Keefe remains optimistic about the team’s long-term development.

“These guys believe in what we’re doing, they believe in the process,” Keefe said after Thursday’s 137-101 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. “We’re building some habits that are important, and we have to build them when times are tough. Every team has their moments, it’s how you deal with those moments, but I’ve always believed in the character of our team.”

The Wizards’ losing streak has been particularly lopsided, with 15 of the 16 losses coming by double digits. Their last competitive outing was a nine-point loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Nov. 13, but recent defeats have been even more decisive, including three losses by 25 points or more in their last four games.

Washington joins rare company as only the sixth NBA team to endure consecutive seasons with losing streaks of 16 or more games.

Challenges Facing the Wizards

Second-year forward Bilal Coulibaly is enduring a slump, shooting just 4-of-31 from the field and 1-of-12 from beyond the arc over the past four games. His 0-of-10 shooting performance against Dallas highlighted the team’s offensive woes.

Keefe remains confident in the young forward’s ability to bounce back.

“I think he’s a little out of rhythm,” Keefe said. “Sometimes you have to go through those things in a season and in your career. I have great faith in his character and who he is. He will get out of this.”

The Wizards’ top scorer, Jordan Poole, is averaging 20 points and five assists per game, while No. 1 pick Alexandre Sarr has contributed 10.6 points in 26.8 minutes per contest. Despite their individual efforts, Washington faces the league’s toughest December schedule, according to NBA.com.

Explore Proven Tactics

In This

Guide For Sport Bettors

“I embrace the challenges,” Keefe said. “The schedule is the schedule. You have to go after it and I think that’s what our group is about.”

Nuggets Seek Consistency

Denver arrives in Washington with its own challenges, having alternated wins and losses over its last eight games. The defending NBA champions are currently eighth in the Western Conference, searching for the rhythm that has made them perennial contenders.

In Thursday’s 126-114 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver allowed 22 3-pointers while converting just six of its own, underscoring the team’s recent defensive struggles.

“We’re a team that’s trying to find itself,” Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. “I think everyone has to own where they’re at, where we’re at, and it starts with me as the head coach to look in the mirror and say what can I do better and how can I help this team more.”

Tonight’s Winning NBA Picks Are Here! Access NBA basketball picks against the spread tonight and plan your bets.

Key Players

Three-time MVP Nikola Jokic continues to be a dominant force for Denver, leading the team with 29.9 points and an NBA-best 13.4 rebounds per game. The Nuggets boast a balanced offense, with five players averaging at least 15 points per game, but rank 24th in the league defensively, allowing 116.8 points per game.

Series History

This will be the 101st meeting between the two franchises. Denver has won the last six matchups, adding to the Wizards’ uphill battle as they attempt to avoid a record-breaking loss.