Denver NuggetsOpen full analysis
Orlando MagicOpen full analysis
The Orlando Magic edged the Denver Nuggets 127–126 on December 27 at Kia Center in a tightly contested matchup that finished just below the Vegas total of 235.5. Anthony Black led Orlando with 38 points, while Devin Bane added 24 in the victory. The Magic shot 51.7 percent from the field and made 10 three-pointers, though Denver countered with strong efficiency of their own at 51.2 percent and 11 three-pointers made. The Nuggets dominated the glass with 49 rebounds to Orlando's 35 and committed only 6 turnovers compared to Denver's 16, a critical factor in the one-point result. Orlando's fourth quarter proved decisive, outscoring Denver 43–33 in the final frame to secure the comeback. Nikola Jokić paced Denver with 34 points and Jamal Murray contributed 24, but the Nuggets' 16 turnovers and inability to close proved costly despite maintaining a slight offensive rating advantage (125.7 to 124.2). The loss marks a significant setback for Denver's road form and positioning in the Western Conference.
