Denver Nuggets vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction | 01.25.26
Denver Nuggets
Memphis Grizzlies
Game Spread
Total Points
Tale of the Tape
Detailed Analysis
Denver Nuggets vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 25-01-2026
In a compelling regular-season matchup, the Denver Nuggets (31-15) travel to FedExForum in Memphis to face the Memphis Grizzlies (18-25) on January 25, 2026, at 3:30 PM. This contest presents a fascinating dynamic, with both teams navigating significant injury challenges, setting the stage for an unpredictable battle.
Denver Nuggets vs Memphis Grizzlies Matchup Preview
Denver Nuggets Key Stats & Trends
The Denver Nuggets, despite their strong 31-15 record, are facing an unprecedented wave of injuries that severely impacts their lineup. Historically, Denver relies on a balanced attack, but for this game, their offensive rhythm will be severely tested. Jamal Murray, if he plays, is their primary offensive engine, averaging 26.0 PPG and a team-high 7.3 APG, alongside 4.3 RPG, 1.0 SPG, and 0.3 BPG. However, without Nikola Jokic, his workload and efficiency will be under immense pressure. Rebounding, typically a strength, will be challenged with key frontcourt players out; Peyton Watson leads the healthy options with 5.1 RPG. The Nuggets’ ability to maintain their elite offensive execution and defensive solidity will hinge on their available depth stepping up significantly.
Injury Report Denver Nuggets
- Jonas Valanciunas (Day-to-day): Valanciunas (calf) is questionable to play Sunday in Memphis.
- Peyton Watson (Day-to-day): Watson (ankles) is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Grizzlies.
- Christian Braun (Out): Braun (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Grizzlies.
- Aaron Gordon (Out): Gordon (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game in Memphis.
- Jamal Murray (Day-to-day): Murray (hamstring/hip) is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against Memphis.
- Cameron Johnson (Out): Johnson (knee) has yet to progress to contact work and remains out indefinitely.
- Nikola Jokic (Out): Jokic (knee) has resumed on-court workouts but remains out.
- Tamar Bates (Out): Bates (foot) will be re-evaluated in 12 weeks.
Memphis Grizzlies Key Stats & Trends
The Memphis Grizzlies (18-25) have struggled for consistency this season, exacerbated by their own extensive injury list. Their defense, often a hallmark, has been inconsistent without key personnel. Offensively, Jaren Jackson Jr. is the focal point, averaging 18.9 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 1.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, and 1.5 BPG. His two-way presence will be crucial. Jock Landale steps up in the paint, leading active players with 6.5 RPG, while Cam Spencer shoulders playmaking duties with 5.5 APG. Despite their record, the Grizzlies have shown flashes of resilience, particularly at home, and will look to exploit Denver’s depleted roster.
Injury Report Memphis Grizzlies
- Santi Aldama (Out): Aldama (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game versus the Nuggets.
- Ty Jerome (Out): Jerome (calf) is likely to make his season debut within 1-to-2 weeks.
- Ja Morant (Out): Morant (elbow) will be reevaluated in approximately three weeks.
- Scotty Pippen Jr. (Out): Pippen is expected to return in 4-6 weeks (left toe surgery).
- Zach Edey (Out): Edey (stress reaction in left ankle) will be re-evaluated in six weeks.
- Brandon Clarke (Out): Clarke is expected to return in four to six weeks (Grade 2 right calf strain).
Denver Nuggets vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction & Best Bet
Given the catastrophic injury report for the Denver Nuggets, this game shifts dramatically in favor of the Grizzlies. With Nikola Jokic, Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, Cameron Johnson, and potentially Jamal Murray, Jonas Valanciunas, and Peyton Watson all sidelined or questionable, Denver’s lineup is severely compromised. Even a resilient team like the Nuggets will struggle to generate offense and maintain defensive integrity without their MVP, key starters, and significant depth.
The Memphis Grizzlies, despite their own injuries, will be facing a far less potent Nuggets squad. Jaren Jackson Jr. should dominate the paint on both ends, and their home-court advantage will be a significant factor. Expect Memphis to capitalize on Denver’s lack of star power and continuity. The offensive firepower missing from both sides, particularly Denver’s, also points towards a lower-scoring affair.
Prediction: Memphis Grizzlies -3.5 (Spread)
Total Points (224.5): Under
Last 5 Games: DEN
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Milwaukee | W 102-100 | Strawther 20 | Nnaji 12 | Pickett 7 |
| @ Washington | W 107-97 | Watson 35 | Valanciunas 9 | Murray 5 |
| vs Los Angeles | L 115-107 | Murray 28 | Pickett 6 | Murray 11 |
| vs Charlotte | L 110-87 | Murray 16 | Jones 6 | Pickett 7 |
| vs Washington | W 121-115 | Murray 42 | Gordon 10 | Gordon 11 |
Last 5 Games: MEM
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs New Orleans | L 133-127 | Jackson Jr. 26 | Jackson Jr. 12 | Spencer 11 |
| vs Atlanta | L 124-122 | Morant 23 | Landale 11 | Morant 12 |
| vs Orlando * | W 126-109 | Morant 24 | Landale 8 | Morant 13 |
| vs Orlando * | L 118-111 | Jackson Jr. 30 | Konchar 8 | Spencer 11 |
| vs Brooklyn | W 103-98 | Coward 21 | Landale 9 | Spencer 13 |