Detroit Pistons vs Denver Nuggets Prediction | 01.27.26

Detroit Pistons vs Denver Nuggets Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 27-01-2026

The regular season heats up as the formidable Detroit Pistons (33-11) travel to Ball Arena to face the Denver Nuggets (31-15) on January 27, 2026, at 9:00 PM EST. This clash promises an intriguing battle, with the Pistons riding a wave of success against a Nuggets squad battling significant injury concerns.

Detroit Pistons vs Denver Nuggets Matchup Preview

Detroit Pistons Key Stats & Trends

The Detroit Pistons enter this contest as one of the league’s top teams, boasting an impressive 33-11 record. Their success is largely orchestrated by the phenomenal play of Cade Cunningham, who is having an MVP-caliber season. Cunningham leads the team with an elite 25.4 points and 9.7 assists per game, showcasing his dual-threat ability to score and facilitate. His overall impact is undeniable, reflected in his comprehensive stat line of 25.4 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 9.7 APG, 1.5 SPG, and 0.8 BPG. Complementing Cunningham’s perimeter dominance is Jalen Duren, a force on the boards averaging 10.6 rebounds per game, providing crucial interior presence. The Pistons’ cohesive unit and offensive firepower make them a tough matchup for any opponent.

Injury Report Detroit Pistons

• Caris LeVert (Out): LeVert (illness) will not play Tuesday against the Nuggets.

Denver Nuggets Key Stats & Trends

The Denver Nuggets, despite their strong 31-15 record, are facing an uphill battle due to a rash of injuries to key players. Their offensive engine, Jamal Murray, is listed as probable and leads the team with 26.0 points and 7.3 assists per game. Peyton Watson, also probable, contributes 5.1 rebounds. However, the absence of Nikola Jokic is a monumental blow, removing their primary playmaker and scoring threat. With Aaron Gordon, Cameron Johnson, and Christian Braun also sidelined, the Nuggets’ depth and defensive capabilities are severely compromised, forcing others to step into expanded roles.

Injury Report Denver Nuggets

• Peyton Watson (Day-to-day): Watson (ankle) is probable for Tuesday’s game against the Pistons.
• Cameron Johnson (Out): Johnson (knee) has been ruled out for Tuesday’s game against the Pistons.
• Aaron Gordon (Out): Gordon (hamstring) will not play Tuesday against the Pistons.
• Jonas Valanciunas (Day-to-day): Valanciunas (calf) is probable for Tuesday’s game versus Detroit.
• Christian Braun (Out): Braun (ankle) will not play Tuesday against the Pistons.
• Jamal Murray (Day-to-day): Murray (hamstring/hip) is probable for Tuesday’s game against the Pistons.
• Nikola Jokic (Out): Jokic (knee) has resumed on-court workouts, ESPN’s Shams Charania reports.
• Tamar Bates (Out): The Nuggets announced Monday that Bates (foot) will be re-evaluated in 12 weeks.

Detroit Pistons vs Denver Nuggets Prediction & Best Bet

Considering the significant injury woes plaguing the Denver Nuggets, particularly the absence of Nikola Jokic, the Detroit Pistons are poised to capitalize. Cade Cunningham’s elite all-around performance, averaging 25.4 PPG and 9.7 APG, will be too much for a depleted Nuggets defense to contain. The Pistons’ superior health and momentum give them a clear advantage. Therefore, we predict the winner will be Detroit Pistons.

Regarding the total points line of 218.5, despite Jokic’s absence, the Pistons’ high-octane offense led by Cunningham and the potential return of Jamal Murray for the Nuggets suggest enough scoring to push past this total. Expect the Pistons to dictate a fast pace, contributing significantly to the score. Our pick for the Over/Under is over.