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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Nuggets are on a new high after their much successful NBA trade deadline show. Plus, they are just a couple of wins away from matching the numbers of defending champion Lakers on the WC table. On the other hand, the Hawks are 8-2 in the last 10 games, making them a big challenge against Nikola Jokic’s side.

The Hawks now have a bench leader in Lou Williams to help them with his experience. The 2018 Sixth Man of the Year has replaced Rajon Rondo for them, and only time can tell how this swap would turn out. For the Nuggets, the acquisition of JaVale McGee and an even bigger one of Aaron Gordon was a welcoming move. 

So, who among the two teams holds better cards?

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Denver Nuggets vs Atlanta Hawks: Injury updates and lineup prediction

For the Nuggets, point guard Monte Morris (quadriceps) will stay out. Moreover, the new acquisitions in Aaron Gordon and Gary Clark will remain day-to-day decisions for the team.

Probable lineup – Michael Porter Jr. (SF), Paul Millsap (PF), Nikola Jokic (C), Jamal Murray (PG), and Will Barton (SG)

For the Hawks, point guard Kris Dunn will not play on Sunday because of his ankle issues. Also, small forward De’Andre Hunter is questionable to play because of his knee injury. Lastly, their shooting forward Cam Reddish was already out after a non-surgical procedure and would not be back before the third week of April.

Probable lineup – John Collins (PF), Tony Snell (SF), Clint Capela (C), Trae Young (PG), and Bogdan Bogdanovic (SG)

Read AlsoHow Does The Denver Nuggets Roster Look After Trading For Aaron Gordon and JaVale McGee?

Who wins?

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USA Today via Reuters

The Nuggets are coming off a revenge win against the Pelicans after taking a loss earlier this week. In their recent win, they diluted a 39-point double-double effort from Zion Williamson.

Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic combined for 60 points, 20 assists, and 9 rebounds to hammer the Pelicans. The Nuggets have a very sturdy starting lineup, and they have players who have the fitness to continue playing 40 odd minutes and still deliver with utmost athleticism.

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The Hawks are nowhere behind as they have a trio in John Collins, Clint Capela, and Trae Young to turn the tables. Recently, each of the three players scored a double-double against the Warriors to easily defeat them. It will not be surprising if they pull the same dominance against the Nuggets.

We predict a very closely fought game with the ultimate winners in Atlanta Hawks.