Denver at Portland

Denver is ahead in the series because of defense and rebounding. They were the second best team in the Western Conference, just three games behind Golden State. Denver's defense was sixth in points allowed, and No. 1 at defending beyond the arc. Power forward Paul Millsap has been a force in this series, averaging 19 points and 9.6 rebounds. Portland is having difficulties matching up with both Millsap and center Nikola Jokic (averaging 26.4 points, 14.4 rebounds, 8.8 assists). The Nuggets are also 22-8-1 ATS against the Northwest Division. Portland point guard Damian Lillard is just 33-of-84 shooting, including 7-of-32 from three-point range, over the past four games. Portland was outrebounded 62-43 the last game and outrebounded two games ago when they last met on this court. The Blazers are 2-9-1 ATS in the last 12 meetings, so back the dog and play Denver.