Orlando Magic vs Denver Nuggets Recap

NBA Recap: Orlando Magic vs Denver Nuggets – 12/18/25

On Thursday, December 18, 2025, the Orlando Magic visited the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena in Denver, CO. The Nuggets secured a win with a score of 126-115. This victory improved the Nuggets’ record to 19-6, placing them second in the Western Conference.

Jamal Murray played a significant role for the Nuggets, scoring 32 points. Nikola Jokić also contributed with a triple-double, adding 23 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists. On the other side, Paolo Banchero stood out for the Magic with 26 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists.

Orlando Magic started strong, leading 32-25 after the first quarter. However, Denver Nuggets responded in the second quarter, outscoring the Magic 43-22. This gave Denver a solid lead going into halftime.

In the third quarter, both teams scored 31 points, maintaining Denver’s lead. Orlando tried to close the gap in the fourth quarter with 30 points, but Denver’s 27 points secured their win. Denver’s shooting was key, with 55.7% from the field and 44.4% from the three-point line.

 

Paolo Banchero stood out for the Orlando Magic with a triple-double. He scored 26 points, grabbed 16 rebounds, and dished out 10 assists. His performance was critical in keeping the Magic competitive against the Nuggets.

Wendell Carter Jr. also played well for Orlando. He matched Banchero with 26 points and added 9 rebounds. His efficient shooting, going 11 for 15 from the field, helped the Magic stay in the game.

For the Denver Nuggets, Nikola Jokić recorded a triple-double. He had 23 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists. Jamal Murray led the team in scoring with 32 points, contributing to the Nuggets’ victory.

 

What’s Next

The Denver Nuggets improved their record to 19-6 with this win over the Orlando Magic. They hold the second position in the Western Conference. This victory keeps them in a strong spot as they look to challenge for the top spot.

The Orlando Magic, now 15-11, remain in fifth place in the Eastern Conference. Despite the loss, they are still in a good position for playoff contention. They will aim to bounce back in their next game against the Utah Jazz.

The Orlando Magic will play their next game on Saturday, December 20. They will face the Utah Jazz on the road at the Delta Center. After that, they will continue their road trip against the Golden State Warriors on December 22 and the Portland Trail Blazers on December 23.

The Denver Nuggets will also play on Saturday, December 20. They will host the Houston Rockets at Ball Arena. Following this, the Nuggets will stay at home to play the Utah Jazz on December 22 before traveling to face the Dallas Mavericks on December 23.


All odds are courtesy of Action247 Sportsbook. Good luck!!


* All odds are provided by Action247 Sportsbook and all odds subject to change. **All views expressed are my own. My picks are my own and are not a guarantee, bet at your own risk. Action247 does not warrant the accuracy of completeness of the information, text, graphics, links or other items contained within these post.