Nuggets vs Bulls Prediction, Odds & Game Preview 3/24/2025

The Denver Nuggets welcome back MVP Nikola Jokic from his ankle injury just in time for a crucial matchup against a surging Chicago Bulls squad that's fresh off dropping 146 points on the Lakers.

While the Nuggets aim to solidify their position in the Western Conference's top three, the Bulls bring their explosive offense - ranked sixth in NBA scoring - to Ball Arena, setting up what could be a high-scoring showdown given both teams' defensive struggles this season.

The home team Nuggets, leading the NBA in field goal percentage, look to leverage their size advantage and Jokic's court vision against an away team Bulls defense that's allowing the second-most points in the league.

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Denver Nuggets vs. Chicago Bulls preview

The Denver Nuggets are getting a massive boost with MVP Nikola Jokic's return to the lineup after a four-game absence, just in time for Monday's clash with the Chicago Bulls at Ball Arena.

Chicago's coming in hot off an eye-popping 146-point explosion against the Lakers, with Cody White dropping 36 and Josh Giddey flirting with a quadruple-double - but they'll face a much different beast in Denver's league-leading offense.

The contrast in styles here is fascinating: Chicago's been lighting it up from beyond the arc (ranking third in three-pointers made), while Denver's been dominating inside thanks to their league-best field goal percentage.

The Joker's return couldn't come at a better time for Denver, who've struggled to a 1-2 record without their floor general and desperately need to maintain their position in the tight Western Conference playoff race.

While the Bulls' offense has been clicking lately, winning seven of their last ten, their 29th-ranked defense could be in serious trouble against Denver's precision attack.

Aaron Gordon's been holding down the fort in Jokic's absence, including a recent 26-point performance, but he'll gladly slide back into his natural role with the big Serbian running the show.

With both teams ranking in the NBA's top-8 for scoring margin and turnover margin, expect a fast-paced showdown that'll test Chicago's shaky defense against Denver's surgical offense.

The Nuggets' home court advantage at Ball Arena, combined with Jokic's return and their push for Western Conference positioning, sets up what should be a compelling Monday night matchup.