NBA Showdown: Denver Nuggets Battle Washington Wizards Tonight
Basketball fans are in for a thrilling night as the Denver Nuggets prepare to host the Washington Wizards. This crucial NBA matchup promises intense action and strategic play. The game tips off at 9:00 pm Eastern Time on January 17, 2026. Both teams are eager to secure a victory, but they face significant challenges due to player injuries.
When and Where to Watch the Game
The Denver Nuggets will welcome the Washington Wizards at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. Fans can catch the live action starting at 9:00 p.m. ET. The broadcast will air exclusively on ALT, KTVD, and MNMT2. For those preferring online streaming, Fubo and Prime Video will provide live coverage. This ensures everyone can follow the game from anywhere.
Expected Starting Lineups
Denver Nuggets:
- Spencer Jones (Small Forward)
- Peyton Watson (Power Forward)
- Jalen Pickett (Point Guard)
- Tim Hardaway Jr. (Small Forward)
- Zeke Nnaji (Center)
Washington Wizards:
- Tre Johnson (Point Guard)
- Kyshawn George (Shooting Guard)
- Justin Champagnie (Small Forward)
- Khris Middleton (Power Forward)
- Alex Sarr (Center)
Injury Report for Both Teams
Denver Nuggets Injury Concerns:
- Aaron Gordon - QUESTIONABLE (hamstring)
- Jamal Murray - QUESTIONABLE (ankle)
- Bruce Brown - QUESTIONABLE (knee)
- Nikola Jokic - OUT (knee)
- Christian Braun - OUT (ankle)
- Jonas Valanciunas - OUT (calf)
- Cameron Johnson - OUT (knee)
- Tamar Bates - OUT (foot)
Washington Wizards Injury Updates:
- Trae Young - OUT (knee, quadriceps)
- Cam Whitmore - OUT (venous condition)
- Bilal Coulibaly - OUT (back)
- Tristan Vukcevic - QUESTIONABLE (knee)
The Nuggets are dealing with multiple key absences. Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon are doubtful for tonight's game. Nikola Jokic remains sidelined with a knee injury. This situation forces the team to rely heavily on players like Peyton Watson and Spencer Jones. On the other side, the Wizards also miss important contributors, making this matchup unpredictable.
Game Prediction and Season Performance
This season, the Denver Nuggets have shown strong offensive capabilities. They scored over 231.5 points in 28 out of 41 matches. However, the Washington Wizards are not far behind, achieving the same in 25 out of 40 games. This makes tonight's predictions particularly challenging. Both teams have players who can change the game's outcome.
The Nuggets boast standout performers. Peyton Watson averages 13.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. Jamal Murray, though questionable, has impressive stats with 25.8 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. Their contributions could be crucial if they play.
For the Washington Wizards, Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George lead the charge. Sarr averages 16.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, helping the team advance. George adds 14.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. These players give the Wizards a fighting chance to secure a win.
Overall, the Nuggets have a better season record with 28 wins out of 41 games. The Wizards managed only 10 wins out of 40 matches. Yet, with key players missing on both sides, the game could swing either way. Fans should expect a competitive and exciting clash tonight.
