Brooklyn Nets vs Denver Nuggets Prediction | 01.29.26

Brooklyn Nets vs Denver Nuggets Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 29-01-2026

As the NBA regular season rolls into late January, the Brooklyn Nets (12-33) face a formidable challenge against the Denver Nuggets (31-16) at Ball Arena on January 29, 2026, at 9:00 PM EST. This matchup, despite the contrasting records, is riddled with significant injury concerns for both sides, promising an unpredictable contest that will test the depth and resilience of each squad.

Brooklyn Nets vs Denver Nuggets Matchup Preview

Brooklyn Nets Key Stats & Trends

The Brooklyn Nets arrive in Denver struggling to find consistency, reflected in their 12-33 record. Their offense largely revolves around the dynamic scoring of Michael Porter Jr., who is averaging an impressive 25.2 points per game. Porter Jr. is also a key contributor across the board with 7.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.0 steal, and 0.2 blocks per game. Inside, Nic Claxton remains a crucial presence, leading the team with 7.4 rebounds and surprisingly contributing 4.0 assists per game. However, the team’s overall offensive efficiency and defensive consistency have been major challenges throughout the season, exacerbated by a lengthy injury list that has continually disrupted their rotations.

Injury Report Brooklyn Nets

• Ziaire Williams (Out): Williams won’t play Thursday in Denver due to a left calf contusion.
• Egor Demin (Out): Demin won’t suit up for Thursday’s game versus the Nuggets due to left plantar fascia injury management.
• Cam Thomas (Out): Thomas has been ruled out for Thursday’s game in Denver due to left hamstring management.
• Terance Mann (Day-to-day): Mann is questionable to play Thursday in Denver due to back soreness.
• Noah Clowney (Out): Clowney (back) is out for Thursday’s game in Denver.
• Haywood Highsmith (Out): Highsmith (knee) has been ruled out for Tuesday’s game against the Suns.

Denver Nuggets Key Stats & Trends

The Denver Nuggets, currently holding a commanding 31-16 record, have established themselves as one of the league’s elite. Their success is deeply rooted in their cohesive team play and the brilliance of their stars. Jamal Murray has been an offensive engine, leading the team with 25.9 points per game and an impressive 7.4 assists per game, alongside 4.4 rebounds, 1.0 steal, and 0.4 blocks. Jonas Valanciunas anchors the paint, pulling down 5.1 rebounds per game. However, the Nuggets are facing a significant test of their depth, as they too contend with a substantial injury list, including their reigning MVP.

Injury Report Denver Nuggets

• Christian Braun (Out): Braun (ankle) is out for Thursday’s game against the Nets.
• Aaron Gordon (Out): Gordon (hamstring) won’t play Thursday against the Nets.
• Jonas Valanciunas (Day-to-day): Valanciunas (calf) is probable for Thursday’s game against the Nets.
• Jamal Murray (Day-to-day): Murray (hamstring/hip) is probable to play Thursday against the Nets.
• Nikola Jokic (Out): Jokic (knee) will be re-evaluated in about one week.
• Cameron Johnson (Out): Johnson (knee) has been ruled out for Tuesday’s game against the Pistons.
• Tamar Bates (Out): The Nuggets announced Monday that Bates (foot) will be re-evaluated in 12 weeks.

Brooklyn Nets vs Denver Nuggets Prediction & Best Bet

This game presents a fascinating dynamic due to the sheer volume of key players sidelined for both teams. The Denver Nuggets, despite their stellar record, are severely hampered by the absence of MVP Nikola Jokic, defensive stalwart Aaron Gordon, and key rotation player Christian Braun. While Jamal Murray is probable, his effectiveness could be limited. For Brooklyn, the loss of Cam Thomas and Terance Mann further depletes their already struggling offensive arsenal, though Michael Porter Jr. is expected to carry a heavy load.

Given the monumental absences for Denver, particularly Jokic’s impact on their offensive flow and rebounding, the Nets are catching the Nuggets at a vulnerable moment. While Brooklyn has its own issues, getting 7.5 points against a Nuggets team missing its three best players (Jokic, Murray, Gordon) and other key contributors makes the spread highly appealing. Even if Murray plays, the overall offensive burden will be immense. Therefore, our definitive prediction is Brooklyn Nets +7.5 (Spread).

Regarding the total points line set at 210.5, the absence of Jokic significantly impacts Denver’s scoring efficiency, and Brooklyn already struggles to put up points consistently. However, a low total like this, coupled with potential defensive lapses from both sides due to new rotations, could lead to a surprisingly higher-scoring affair. With Murray likely to increase his shot attempts if he plays, and MPJ being a primary scorer, we lean towards the over.