The Denver Nuggets are set to challenge the Milwaukee Bucks on January 23, 2026, at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. This matchup is particularly intriguing as both teams navigate significant injury challenges while aiming to secure crucial playoff positioning. The Nuggets have managed to maintain momentum, winning five consecutive games on the road, including a recent victory against the Washington Wizards, which they secured with a score of 107-97.
In that game, Peyton Watson showcased his potential by scoring a career-high 35 points, supported by Jamal Murray who added 24 points. In contrast, the Bucks have struggled recently, losing four of their last five games, including a home loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder where Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 19 points.
This will be the second meeting between the two teams this month. The last encounter, held on January 11 in Denver, saw the Nuggets secure a close victory with a score of 108-104. In that game, Antetokounmpo led all scorers with 31 points, but it was Denver’s balanced scoring, highlighted by Tim Hardaway Jr.’s contribution of 25 points off the bench, that ultimately determined the outcome.
Current Team Dynamics and Injury Reports
The Nuggets will be without their star player, Nikola Jokic, due to a knee injury, alongside Christian Braun, Cam Johnson, and Tamar Bates, who are also sidelined. This situation places a heavier burden on the remaining players, particularly Murray and Watson, to step up in Jokic’s absence.
For the Bucks, Myles Turner is listed as probable for the game, while Taurean Prince and Kevin Porter Jr. will miss the matchup due to injuries. The Bucks have struggled at home this season, holding a record of 9-11, which contrasts sharply with the Nuggets, who boast an impressive 18-7 road record.
Betting Insights and Predictions
According to the latest odds from DraftKings, the Bucks are favored at -230 on the moneyline, while the Nuggets are positioned at +190. The spread is set at Bucks -6.5, with a total point over/under at 218.5. This indicates a slight shift from the game opening with Bucks -4.5 and a total of 222.5 points.
Key player statistics reveal that Murray has scored 20 or more points in 14 of his last 15 games, while Antetokounmpo is enjoying a strong January, shooting 66.9% from the field and averaging 26.6 points per game.
The betting model from Rotoworld suggests cautious optimism for the Nuggets, leaning towards a play on the spread, particularly Nuggets +6.5. The model remains wary of placing bets on the moneyline but is inclined to consider the game total of 217.5 points.
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This game promises to be a pivotal moment for both teams as they navigate their respective challenges. With the stakes high and both sides eager to secure a win, fans can expect an intense showdown on the court.
