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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 will take on the Orlando Magic in NBA action at Ball Arena on Thursday, starting at 9:00 PM ET.
Based on updated simulations and today’s injury updates, Dimers' proven NBA model predicts 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 stars like Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and Cameron Johnson, while the Magic will look to 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 powerful machine learning and data analysis, we have simulated the outcome of Thursday's NBA game between the Magic and Nuggets 10,000 times as part of our NBA predictions coverage.
Our leading predictive model gives the Nuggets a 72% chance of defeating the Magic. Our predicted final score has the Nuggets winning 121-114.
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 237.5-point over/under has a 52% chance of staying under.
Magic vs. Nuggets odds
We have sourced the best NBA odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Magic | Nuggets |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | +6.5 (-110) | -6.5 (-102) |
| Moneyline | +220 | -270 |
| Total | o237.5 (-110) | u237.5 (-108) |
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 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 -6.5 | -102 |
| Moneyline | Nuggets | -270 |
| Total | Under 237.5 | -108 |
According to our best NBA bets for Thursday, the top play to make on this game is Nuggets to win.
Magic vs. Nuggets player props
NBA player props are an enjoyable way to wager on Thursday's Magic vs. Nuggets game without necessarily betting on the outcome. 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 | 29 |
| Jett Howard | 12 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 22 |
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 | 13 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 21 |
| Bruce Brown | 9 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 22 |
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 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.
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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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