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Hornets vs. Nuggets prediction: Denver favored to win Sunday's NBA matchup [1/18/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Dave Garofolo, Content Producer
Get Charlotte Hornets vs Denver Nuggets predictions for NBA Sunday.
The Denver Nuggets and Charlotte Hornets will lock horns in NBA action at Ball Arena on Sunday, starting at 8:00 PM ET.
Based on the latest simulation results and today’s injury reports, Dimers' proven NBA model predicts the Nuggets as the most likely winner of the Hornets vs. Nuggets game.
This prediction follows the latest NBA Injury Report, which suggests the Nuggets lineup will feature stars like Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson, while the Hornets will rely on Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges and LaMelo Ball.
This article offers a closer look at Sunday's matchup, including an expanded look at the predicted score, best bets and player prop picks.
Hornets vs. Nuggets prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using trusted machine learning and data, we have simulated the result of Sunday's NBA matchup between the Hornets and Nuggets 10,000 times as part of our NBA predictions coverage.
Our independent predictive model gives the Nuggets a 58% chance of beating the Hornets. Our predicted final score has the Nuggets winning 114-112.
According to our model, the Nuggets (-1.5) have a 53% chance of covering the spread, while the over/under total of 228.5 points has a 51% chance of staying under.
Hornets vs. Nuggets odds
We have researched the best NBA odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Hornets | Nuggets |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | +1.5 (-114) | -1.5 (-105) |
| Moneyline | -102 | -116 |
| Total | o228.5 (-105) | u228.5 (-110) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Hornets vs. Nuggets picks and best bet
After matching our predictions against the best available odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Nuggets -1.5 | -105 |
| Moneyline | Nuggets | -116 |
| Total | Under 228.5 | -110 |
According to our NBA best bets, the top play to make on this game is Nuggets to win.
Hornets vs. Nuggets player props
Looking for Hornets vs. Nuggets NBA player props? We use the best information available to project how each team's leading players will perform at Ball Arena.
Brandon Miller is expected to lead the Hornets with 22 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists, while Jamal Murray is projected to have 28 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists for the Nuggets.
Check out our NBA player projections for a full range of projected box scores, including points, assists, rebounds and today's NBA first basket picks.
Hornets prediction
Our model's projected player stats for the Hornets are:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brandon Miller | 22 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 40 |
| Miles Bridges | 20 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 39 |
| LaMelo Ball | 20 | 5 | 7 | 3 | 42 |
| Kon Knueppel | 20 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 37 |
| Collin Sexton | 12 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 22 |
Nuggets prediction
Projected points, rebounds, assists and three-pointers made for the Nuggets:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jamal Murray | 28 | 4 | 8 | 4 | 52 |
| Aaron Gordon | 19 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 35 |
| Peyton Watson | 18 | 6 | 2 | 2 | 35 |
| Tim Hardaway | 15 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 24 |
| Christian Braun | 9 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 21 |
Hornets vs. Nuggets game-day updates and essential details
Sunday's matchup between the Nuggets and Hornets at Ball Arena is scheduled to start at 8:00 PM ET.
- Who: Charlotte Hornets vs. Denver Nuggets
- Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
- Time: 8:00 PM ET/5:00PM PT
- Venue: Ball Arena
Conclusion
We predict the Nuggets, with a 58% win probability, will likely beat the Hornets on Sunday, with Jamal Murray projected for a game-high 52 fantasy points.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Hornets vs. Nuggets insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are based on the latest data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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Dave Garofolo uses sophisticated AI-driven analytics to make predictions and evaluate player performances in the NBA, MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAAM, and PGA TOUR tournaments, crafting insightful game and prop previews.
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