The Denver Nuggets host the Cleveland Cavaliers at Ball Arena in what promises to be one of the biggest inter-conference clashes of the week. Both teams are among the best in the league this season and are fighting for top playoff positions in their respective conferences. Denver have been dominant at home, while Cleveland arrive with strong momentum and the confidence of a team pushing for the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.
The Nuggets come into this game after a close road defeat but remain one of the strongest home teams in the NBA. Playing at the high altitude of Denver has always been a major advantage, and with Nikola Jokić leading the offense, they are difficult to beat at Ball Arena.
The Cavaliers, however, are in excellent form. They have won four of their last five games and have been one of the most balanced teams in the league, combining efficient scoring with elite defense. With stars like Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, Cleveland have the size and defensive strength to challenge Denver inside.
With two top-tier teams, MVP-level talent on both sides, and playoff intensity already building, this matchup is expected to be close, physical, and highly competitive.
Match Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | Cleveland Cavaliers vs Denver Nuggets |
| Date | February 10, 2026 |
| Time | 9:00 PM ET |
| Venue | Ball Arena, Denver |
| Broadcast | NBA League Pass, Regional Sports Networks |
Team Records & Current Form
Denver hold a 35–19 record and are currently among the top three teams in the Western Conference. They are especially strong at home with a 20–7 record, where their offense and defense both perform at a high level.
Cleveland enter the game with a 38–16 record, the best in the Eastern Conference. They have been consistent all season and carry a 7–3 record in their last 10 games, showing strong form on both ends of the floor.
Last 5 Games
Denver Nuggets
- L vs Clippers (108–112)
- W vs Suns (124–120)
- L vs Kings (113–118)
- W vs Thunder (130–119)
- W vs Timberwolves (122–110)
Record: 3–2, strong overall but coming off a tough loss.
Cleveland Cavaliers
- W vs Celtics (121–112)
- W vs Pacers (118–110)
- W vs Bucks (126–119)
- L vs Knicks (112–118)
- W vs Pistons (124–116)
Record: 4–1, excellent recent form.
Also see: Most Points Scored in an NBA Game
Head-to-Head Record
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| This Season | Cavaliers lead 1–0 |
| Last Meeting | Dec 23, 2025 – Cavaliers 118–112 |
| All-Time Regular Season | Cavaliers lead 78–72 |
| Recent Trend | Cavaliers won 3 of last 5 meetings |
Despite Cleveland’s recent success in the matchup, Denver have historically been very strong at home against the Cavaliers.
Injury Report
Denver Nuggets
- Jamal Murray – Questionable (Hamstring)
- Christian Braun – Questionable (Ankle)
- Vlatko Cancar – Out
- DaRon Holmes II – Out (Season)
Cleveland Cavaliers
- Darius Garland – Questionable (Groin)
- Evan Mobley – Questionable (Knee)
- Dean Wade – Questionable (Illness)
- Ty Jerome – Out
The availability of key guards and frontcourt players could play a major role in the final result.
Key Players to Watch
Denver Nuggets
- Nikola Jokić: 28.4 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 9.1 APG
- Jamal Murray: 21.6 PPG, 6.4 APG
- Michael Porter Jr.: 18.9 PPG, 39.8% from three
- Team Average: 118.7 PPG
Cleveland Cavaliers
- Donovan Mitchell: 27.8 PPG, 5.8 APG
- Evan Mobley: 18.4 PPG, 9.6 RPG, elite defense
- Darius Garland: 20.1 PPG, 7.2 APG
- Jarrett Allen: 16.8 PPG, 10.4 RPG
- Team Average: 119.4 PPG, top-tier defense (2nd in points allowed)
Betting Odds
| Market | Odds Range |
|---|---|
| Spread | Nuggets -4.5 to -5.5 |
| Moneyline | Nuggets -195 to -220 |
| Total | 235.5 – 237.5 |
Denver are favorites at home, but many bettors see value on Cleveland keeping the game close.
Match Prediction
This game features two elite teams with strong defense, which could slow the pace early. Denver’s home advantage and Jokić’s dominance in high-pressure matchups give them a slight edge. However, Cleveland’s depth and defensive strength should keep the margin tight.
Predicted Score:
Nuggets 118 – Cavaliers 114
Best Picks
- Cavaliers +5 (value on road underdog)
- Under 236.5 total points
- Nikola Jokić Over 28.5 Points + Rebounds
- Donovan Mitchell Over 26.5 points
- First Half Under 118.5
This matchup has the feel of a playoff game, with two championship contenders going head-to-head. Denver’s home dominance and the presence of Nikola Jokić give them a narrow advantage, but Cleveland’s strong defense and current form suggest a close contest. Expect a tight battle that could be decided in the final minutes.
