Who: Miami Heat at Denver Nuggets

What: NBA Finals Game 5 (Nuggets lead series 3-1)

When: Monday, June 12, 2023, 8:30pm ET

Where: Ball Arena, Denver, CO

Odds

Moneyline: Nuggets -425, Heat +325

Spread: Nuggets -9 (-110)

Total: 208.5 (-110)

All odds courtesy of ZenSports

It was only a week ago that Miami seemed to have all the momentum pointing right in their direction. With the series knotted at 1-1 after a thrilling win in Denver, the Heat were on their way back to South Beach with the opportunity to turn home court advantage in their favor.

However, after dropping back-to-back games at the Kaseya Center in a lackluster effort, the Heat now have their backs against the wall. In an uphill battle, Miami must win outright the remainder of the way if Jimmy Butler and co. want to keep their championship dreams alive.

Unfortunately, that is far from an easy task given how the Nuggets have dominated the postseason so far, especially at Ball Arena. Nikola Jokic has been a force throughout the playoffs, all but guaranteeing himself a Finals MVP award should the Nuggets emerge victorious.

When handicapping this game, it’s tough to go against the Nuggets right now. They have covered in 3 out of the 4 games against the Heat, winning by double-digits in all their victories. However, 9 points is a heavy number to lay especially against a desperate Heat squad. Miami’s offense has not looked as sharp this series as it has in their previous matchups. Except Miami to struggle again, especially with Tyler Herro still sidelined.