...
...
Read Article
- More Betting
Nuggets vs. Cavaliers prediction: Cleveland to win, Donovan Mitchell projected for big game in Friday's NBA matchup [1/2/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Ryan Leaver, Senior Sports and Betting Editor
Get Denver Nuggets vs Cleveland Cavaliers predictions for NBA Friday.
The Cleveland Cavaliers will face the Denver Nuggets in NBA action at Rocket Arena on Friday, commencing at 7:30 PM ET.
Based on updated simulations and today’s injury news, Dimers' advanced NBA model predicts the Cavaliers as the most likely winner of the Nuggets vs. Cavaliers game.
This prediction follows the latest NBA Injury Report, which suggests the Cavaliers lineup will feature stars like Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, while the Nuggets will look to Jamal Murray, Peyton Watson and Tim Hardaway.
This article offers further insights into Friday's matchup, including an expanded look at the predicted score, best bets and player prop picks.
Nuggets vs. Cavs prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using trusted machine learning and data, we have simulated the result of Friday's NBA game between the Nuggets and Cavaliers 10,000 times as part of our NBA predictions coverage.
Our leading predictive model currently gives the Cavaliers an 83% chance of beating the Nuggets. Our predicted final score has the Cavaliers winning 125-113.
According to our model, the Nuggets (+13.5) have a 57% chance of covering the spread, while the over/under total of 240.5 points has a 54% chance of staying under.
Nuggets vs. Cavaliers odds
We have sourced the best NBA odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Nuggets | Cavaliers |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | +13.5 (-110) | -13.5 (-105) |
| Moneyline | +570 | -800 |
| Total | o240.5 (-108) | u240.5 (-110) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Nuggets vs. Cavaliers picks and best bet
After matching our probabilities against the best current 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 +13.5 | -110 |
| Moneyline | Nuggets | +570 |
| Total | Under 240.5 | -110 |
According to our NBA best bets, the top play to make on this game is Nuggets +13.5 at the spread.
Nuggets vs. Cavaliers player props
Betting on Nuggets vs. Cavaliers NBA player props? We use the best information available to project how each team's leading players will perform at Rocket Arena.
Jamal Murray is expected to lead the Nuggets with 26 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists, while Donovan Mitchell is projected to have 28 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the Cavaliers.
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.
Nuggets prediction
Our model's projected player stats for the Nuggets are:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jamal Murray | 26 | 5 | 7 | 3 | 49 |
| Peyton Watson | 15 | 6 | 2 | 1 | 32 |
| Tim Hardaway | 15 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 23 |
| DaRon Holmes | 12 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 27 |
| Spencer Jones | 10 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 24 |
Cavaliers prediction
Projected points, rebounds, assists and three-pointers made for the Cavaliers:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D. Mitchell | 28 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 48 |
| Darius Garland | 18 | 3 | 7 | 2 | 37 |
| Evan Mobley | 16 | 8 | 4 | 2 | 37 |
| Jarrett Allen | 14 | 8 | 2 | 0 | 31 |
| De'Andre Hunter | 13 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 25 |
Nuggets vs. Cavs game-day updates and essential details
Friday's game between the Cavaliers and Nuggets at Rocket Arena is scheduled to commence at 7:30 PM ET.
- Who: Denver Nuggets vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
- Date: Friday, January 2, 2026
- Time: 7:30 PM ET/4:30PM PT
- Venue: Rocket Arena
Conclusion
We predict the Cavaliers, with an 83% win probability, will likely beat the Nuggets on Friday, with Jamal Murray projected for a game-high 49 fantasy points.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Nuggets vs. Cavaliers insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are based on up-to-date data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Note: Clicking links to our partners may earn us a referral fee. Learn about how we review products and services.
Ryan Leaver uses advanced statistical models and simulations to predict outcomes and provide predictions for the NBA, NFL, college football, college basketball, and soccer. He offers detailed game previews, best bets, props, and futures articles.
Advertiser disclosure