The Denver Nuggets host the Orlando Magic on Thursday night at Ball Arena. Denver is coming off a 144-119 win over the New Orleans Pelicans, extending their winning streak to four games. Orlando snapped a four-game losing streak with a 130-111 win over Sacramento on Wednesday.
This is the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Nuggets won the first matchup 113-100 in Orlando on Jan. 19. The Magic were missing Jalen Suggs and Franz Wagner in that game, but both are expected to play Thursday.
Nuggets Preview – Strong at Home
Denver has been dominant when playing on consecutive nights, holding a 9-1 record in back-to-backs. Their only loss in those situations came when Nikola Jokic and Aaron Gordon sat out. The Nuggets have a strong 16-8 home record this season.
Michael Porter Jr. has been on fire, scoring 36 and 39 points in his last two games. He is shooting 12-for-21 from three-point range in that stretch. Jokic continues to lead the team, averaging 29.7 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per game.
Jamal Murray adds 20.2 points per game, providing additional scoring support. Denver ranks among the league’s best in offensive efficiency and has hit the over in 32 of its last 49 games. They will look to continue their success against a Magic team that struggles on the road.
Magic Preview – Seeking Another Road Win
Orlando is just 10-18 away from home this season. The win over Sacramento on Wednesday was their first victory on a six-game road trip. They have struggled with consistency, going 6-15 since their last back-to-back wins in December.
Franz Wagner scored 31 points in the win over the Kings, leading the team. He is averaging 25.1 points per game this season. Paolo Banchero contributes 22.6 points per game, giving the Magic a strong one-two punch.
Orlando has covered the spread in eight of the last ten meetings against Denver. However, they have struggled back-to-back and could face fatigue at the altitude of Denver. Suggs, who missed the last game against the Nuggets, could provide a boost if he plays.
Betting Prediction
The Nuggets are 7.5-point favorites at home, with the total set at 221.5. Denver has been strong in back-to-back games, and their offense has been clicking. The Magic have struggled in these situations and have not won consecutive games since December.
Denver’s offensive firepower, led by Jokic and Porter, should be enough to cover the spread. The Nuggets have hit the over in 32 of their last 49 games, making the total worth considering. Expect Denver to win by double digits.
Pick: Denver Nuggets -7.5
The Nuggets grab a win here to keep pace with a boatload of teams in the Western Conference.
