- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Denver (23-12) at Philadelphia (19-14)
- When: Jan 5 2026, 8:30 PM
- Where: Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- TV: Peacock
Denver vs Philadelphia Preview & Prediction
Spread: Philadelphia -12.0
Moneyline: Philadelphia (-625)
Total: 230.0
Denver Nuggets Betting Breakdown
Denver enters this matchup battered, tired, and searching for answers. A long road trip has exposed depth issues, defensive lapses, and the reality of playing without Nikola Jokic anchoring everything. The Nuggets have struggled to bring consistent energy early in games, and slow starts have quickly snowballed into uphill battles.
The return of Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun helps stabilize rotations, but chemistry takes time, especially on the road. Jamal Murray has been forced into heavy usage, carrying the offense while also trying to create for teammates. Defensively, Denver has been vulnerable on the perimeter, allowing clean looks and struggling to recover once opponents find rhythm.
At full strength, Denver can compete with anyone. In their current state, they are vulnerable, especially against a team that pushes pace and thrives on transition scoring.
Nuggets Player Prop Pick: Jamal Murray over points – With Jokic sidelined, Murray’s usage and shot volume remain elevated regardless of game script.
Philadelphia 76ers Betting Breakdown
Philadelphia is starting to look like a team that has found its footing. The offense is humming, the stars are producing, and confidence has grown with each win. Tyrese Maxey has taken full control of the backcourt, playing massive minutes and delivering scoring bursts whenever momentum wavers.
Joel Embiid continues to dominate inside, even as he works through conditioning and shooting rhythm. His presence alone bends defenses, opening space for cutters and shooters. Rookie VJ Edgecombe has added a surprising scoring punch, giving the Sixers another reliable option when rotations tighten.
At home, Philadelphia plays with urgency and aggression. Against a tired opponent dealing with injuries, the Sixers are positioned to dictate tempo from the opening tip.
76ers Player Prop Pick: Tyrese Maxey over points – Maxey’s workload and scoring responsibility remain massive, especially in favorable matchups against weakened defenses.
NBA Final Score & Expert Prediction
This matchup sets up cleanly for Philadelphia. Denver’s road struggles, defensive inconsistency, and injury concerns contrast sharply with a Sixers team gaining momentum. If Philadelphia establishes pace early, this game could get out of reach quickly.
Denver will compete behind Murray, but sustaining four quarters against a fresh, motivated home team is a tall order.
Final Score: 76ers 123, Nuggets 108
Lean: Philadelphia -12.0
Total: Over 230.0
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
