NBA 2025-2026: Charlotte Hornets vs Denver Nuggets Prediction
Charlotte Hornets
Home Team
31.0%
113.2 pts
VS
Denver Nuggets
Away Team
69.0%
120.9 pts
Key Prediction Insights
The Denver Nuggets are favored to win against the Charlotte Hornets with a 69.0% probability, with a predicted score of 120.9 to 113.2. The expected starting five for the Hornets includes KJ Simpson, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, Miles Bridges, and Ryan Kalkbrenner. For the Nuggets, Jamal Murray, Peyton Watson, Spencer Jones, Cameron Johnson, and Nikola Jokić are set to start.
Game Analysis
The Charlotte Hornets have shown mixed results in their last three games, with a notable win against the Toronto Raptors, scoring 111 points against their opponent's 86. However, they faced losses against the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets. A consistent scorer, Miles Bridges, leads the team with an average of 20.83 points, supported by strong performances from Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller. Despite their offensive efforts, defensive lapses have been evident, with defensive ratings often exceeding 115 for most players.
Conversely, the Denver Nuggets are coming off two consecutive wins, including a thrilling 134-133 victory over the Atlanta Hawks. Their offense is spearheaded by Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray, boasting impressive offensive ratings of 144.0 and 126.7, respectively. Jokić's average of 29.23 points per game is pivotal, and his defensive rating of 112.6 adds a solid backbone to their defensive play. The Nuggets' ability to score prolifically, coupled with recent performances, makes them a formidable opponent.
Final Prediction
The Denver Nuggets hold a clear edge over the Charlotte Hornets, primarily due to their superior offensive capabilities and recent winning streak. A crucial factor to watch during the game will be Nikola Jokić’s impact, both as a scorer and a playmaker, which could decisively tilt the game in favor of Denver.