The Denver Nuggets are set to return to Ball Arena after a challenging two-week stretch where they played seven games on the East Coast. During this time, the team faced numerous injuries, creating a host of challenges for head coach Michael Malone. Tonight, the Nuggets (25-12) will host the Atlanta Hawks (18-21) in a matchup that features significant roster changes, particularly for Atlanta, which recently traded star player Trae Young just two days ago. This blockbuster deal not only marks a pivotal moment in the trade season but also paves the way for Jalen Johnson to take the spotlight in Atlanta.
The game will tip-off at 7 PM MST at The Can in Denver, and fans can catch the action on Altitude TV and Altitude Radio 92.5FM. With the recent trade, the Hawks are bringing in veterans C.J. McCollum and Corey Kispert, although their participation in tonight’s game remains uncertain as the trade has yet to be fully finalized.
In terms of matchups, the Nuggets have the edge at several positions. Jamal Murray and the Nuggets’ guards, such as Christian Braun and Bruce Brown, are expected to play key roles against the Hawks’ backcourt featuring Nickeil Alexander-Walker and the newly introduced McCollum. The frontcourt boasts strengths on both sides, with Denver’s Aaron Gordon and DaRon Holmes II providing a solid presence.
The injury report reveals a number of probables for the Nuggets, including Murray, Gordon, Braun, and Brown, while Nikola Jokic is sidelined due to a knee injury. Atlanta’s injury list is headlined by Young, who, despite being a major piece of the franchise, is out as the team transitions into its new phase.
A highlight to watch for in this matchup is the competition between Jalen Johnson and Peyton Watson. Johnson, now stepping forward as a primary player in Atlanta, has displayed impressive skills, nearing averaging a triple-double in recent games. Meanwhile, Watson has emerged as one of Denver’s key offensive contributors, consistently scoring over twenty points in five consecutive games.
This matchup also serves as a reminder of the Hawks’ motivations behind the trade. The decision to move on from Young was largely influenced by his hefty contract of $90 million over the next two seasons, allowing Atlanta to refocus its strategy around younger talents like Johnson, who has already begun to shine in this new setup.
As the Nuggets aim for a positive outcome in their home arena, they will need to leverage their experience while staying sharp against a Hawks team eager to showcase their potential in this new era. With stakes high for both teams, fans can expect an exhilarating game filled with fresh dynamics and emerging talents.