Hornets and Nuggets Clash in High-Stakes NBA Matchup
The Charlotte Hornets travel to Ball Arena to face the Denver Nuggets on January 18, 2026. This game marks the final stop of a lengthy road trip for Charlotte. Denver continues to navigate their season without their superstar player. Both teams carry significant injury concerns into this contest.
Injury Situation Impacts Both Rosters
Charlotte's frontcourt faces serious challenges. Moussa Diabate carries a questionable status due to a hamstring issue. His potential absence would weaken the Hornets' rebounding and interior defense. Mason Plumlee remains unavailable after undergoing groin surgery, further depleting their big-man rotation.
Denver deals with more prominent injury news. Nikola Jokic continues his recovery from a hyperextended knee and bone bruise. While his return is anticipated later in January, he will definitely miss this game. Christian Braun's participation remains uncertain as he deals with an ankle problem. His absence could affect Denver's perimeter defense and bench depth.
Historical Trends Favor the Home Team
Denver dominates the historical record between these franchises. The Nuggets have secured victory in 41 of their 71 regular-season meetings. Their most recent encounter occurred on December 7, 2025, resulting in a 115-106 Denver win in Charlotte.
Jamal Murray starred in that previous matchup, scoring 34 points during Denver's franchise-record road winning streak. The Nuggets had also won eight consecutive games against Charlotte before that December contest.
Current Standings and Team Form
Charlotte enters this game with a 15-27 record, placing them 12th in the Eastern Conference. Their road record stands at 8-15. The Hornets are coming off a 136-116 loss to the Golden State Warriors during their current trip.
Denver boasts a strong 29-13 record, good for third place in the Western Conference. They maintain a 12-6 record at home. Remarkably, the Nuggets are riding a four-game winning streak despite playing without Jokic.
Key Statistical Comparison
- Record: Charlotte 15-27 (12th East) vs Denver 29-13 (3rd West)
- Points Per Game Leader: LaMelo Ball (19.9) vs Jamal Murray (25.8)
- Rebounds Leader: Moussa Diabate (8.2) vs Nikola Jokic (10.6)
- Assists Leader: LaMelo Ball (7.8) vs Jamal Murray (9.2)
- Recent Form: Charlotte 2-2 on road trip vs Denver four straight wins
What to Expect at Ball Arena
Charlotte will rely heavily on LaMelo Ball to orchestrate their offense. However, defensive issues persist for the Hornets, particularly after allowing 23 three-pointers in their previous game. Denver has demonstrated impressive scoring ability without Jokic, averaging 124.0 points per game early this season.
Jamal Murray leads Denver's offensive charge, supported by their strong home-court advantage. The Nuggets enter as favorites, while Charlotte seeks a road upset to conclude their trip on a positive note. The altitude, venue, and current form of both teams will significantly influence the game's outcome.
