The Denver Nuggets hope to sweep the season series against the Orlando Magic.

Catch the game tomorrow at 8:00 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: Denver Nuggets (22-8, 12-3 AWAY)

Projected starting five:

  • Jamal Murray
  • Tim Hardaway Jr.
  • Spencer Jones
  • Peyton Watson
  • Nikola Jokic

The Nuggets have been treading water lately, alternating wins and losses over their last five games, but their offense remains dependable enough to keep them competitive every night. They’ve already handled the Magic once this season, winning 126-115 back on December 19, and that game looked like a familiar Denver script. Nikola Jokic was in full command with a 32-point triple-double, while Jamal Murray poured in 35 points and knocked down seven threes like it was business as usual.

That star duo continues to set the tone, but Denver’s success often hinges on the supporting cast. Tim Hardaway Jr. provides spacing and instant offense, Peyton Watson brings athletic defense and transition energy, and Bruce Brown does a bit of everything without needing plays called for him. When those three are active and involved, Denver’s offense flows smoothly and becomes tough to load up against.

The concern, however, is on the other end. Denver’s defense has been shaky, especially against teams that can pressure the rim or heat up from deep. If they let opponents hang around, things can get uncomfortable late. Still, with Jokić and Murray steering the ship, the Nuggets trust their ability to outscore most problems.

HOME: Orlando Magic (17-14, 10-5 HOME)

Projected starting five:

  • Anthony Black
  • Desmond Bane
  • Tristan Da Silva
  • Paolo Banchero
  • Wendell Carter Jr.

The Magic are in a rough stretch, and the numbers paint a clear picture. They’ve lost four of their last six games, posting a -9.3 net rating during that span while shooting just 32.9% from three and 44.6% overall. The offense has stalled, confidence has dipped, and the absence of Franz Wagner is starting to show in a big way.

Paolo Banchero, usually Orlando’s stabilizer, has hit a cold patch as well, averaging just 17.3 points on 36.2% shooting over his last four games. That said, he’s capable of flipping the switch quickly – he posted a triple-double against Denver earlier this season with 26 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists. Orlando will need that version of Banchero to reappear.

Desmond Bane has stepped up as the secondary option in Wagner’s absence, but even he struggled against the Nuggets last week, managing just six points on 3-of-11 shooting in 36 minutes. Overall, the Magic remain middle of the pack on both offense and defense this season, but unless the shooting improves, climbing out of this slump won’t be easy, especially against an elite playmaking team like Denver.

PICKS

Spread: (-9)
Over/Under: Over (233.5)