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Magic vs. Nuggets prediction: Denver favored to win Thursday's NBA matchup [12/18/2025]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Dave Garofolo, Content Producer
Get Orlando Magic vs Denver Nuggets predictions for NBA Thursday.
The Denver Nuggets and Orlando Magic will lock horns in NBA action at Ball Arena on Thursday, with tipoff at 9:00 PM ET.
Based on the latest simulation results and today’s injury reports, Dimers' advanced NBA model projects the Nuggets as the most likely winner of the Magic vs. Nuggets game.
This prediction follows the latest NBA Injury Report, which suggests the Nuggets lineup will feature players like Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and Cameron Johnson, while the Magic will rely on Paolo Banchero, Desmond Bane and Anthony Black.
This article offers an expanded analysis of Thursday's matchup, including an expanded look at the predicted score, best bets and player prop picks.
Magic vs. Nuggets prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using innovative machine learning and statistical analysis, we have simulated the outcome of Thursday's NBA matchup between the Magic and Nuggets 10,000 times as part of our NBA predictions coverage.
Our leading predictive model currently gives the Nuggets a 72% chance of beating the Magic. Our predicted final score has the Nuggets winning 120-114.
According to our model, the bookmakers have got it right, and the Magic and Nuggets each have a 50% chance of covering the spread, while the over/under total of 235.5 points has a 51% chance of staying under.
Magic vs. Nuggets odds
We have researched the best NBA odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Magic | Nuggets |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | +6.5 (-105) | -6.5 (-108) |
| Moneyline | +230 | -260 |
| Total | o235.5 (-114) | u235.5 (-105) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Magic vs. Nuggets picks and best bet
After matching our predictions 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 | Magic +6.5 | -105 |
| Moneyline | Nuggets | -260 |
| Total | Under 235.5 | -105 |
According to our best NBA bets for Thursday, the top play to make on this game is Under 235.5 total points.
Magic vs. Nuggets player props
Betting on Orlando vs. Denver NBA prop bets? We use the best information available to project how each team's leading players will perform at Ball Arena.
Paolo Banchero is expected to lead the Magic with 25 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists, while Nikola Jokic is projected to have 27 points, 11 rebounds and 9 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.
Magic prediction
Our model's projected player stats for the Magic are:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paolo Banchero | 25 | 8 | 5 | 2 | 47 |
| Desmond Bane | 21 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 40 |
| Anthony Black | 16 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 35 |
| Wendell Carter | 12 | 8 | 2 | 1 | 28 |
| T. da Silva | 11 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 21 |
Nuggets prediction
Projected points, rebounds, assists and three-pointers made for the Nuggets:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikola Jokic | 27 | 11 | 9 | 2 | 62 |
| Jamal Murray | 25 | 4 | 6 | 3 | 45 |
| Cameron Johnson | 15 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 29 |
| Tim Hardaway | 12 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 21 |
| Peyton Watson | 12 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 26 |
Magic vs. Nuggets game-day updates and essential details
Thursday's game between the Nuggets and Magic at Ball Arena is scheduled to begin at 9:00 PM ET.
- Who: Orlando Magic vs. Denver Nuggets
- Date: Thursday, December 18, 2025
- Time: 9:00 PM ET/6:00PM PT
- Venue: Ball Arena
Conclusion
We predict the Nuggets, with a 72% win probability, will likely beat the Magic on Thursday, with Nikola Jokic projected for a game-high 62 fantasy points.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Magic vs. Nuggets insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from 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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