Raptors Aim for Third Straight Win Against Struggling Nuggets
The Toronto Raptors are set to continue their homestand as they face off against the Denver Nuggets on New Year’s Eve. Coming off two thrilling victories against the Golden State Warriors and Orlando Magic, the Raptors are riding a wave of confidence. With a record of 2-0 on this homestand, they are eager to capitalize on the Nuggets’ recent misfortunes, particularly following the loss of star center Nikola Jokic to injury.
Game Details
Matchup: Denver Nuggets vs. Toronto Raptors
Date: Wednesday, December 31
Tip-off: 7:30 PM EST
Location: Scotiabank Arena | Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Broadcast Information
Fans can catch the action live on TSN Sports. For those looking to stream the game, options include:
NBA App
FuboTV (free trial available)
Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV (subscription required)
For radio coverage, tune into:
TSN 1050
Sportsnet 590 The Fan
SiriusXM NBA Radio
Injury Updates
The Nuggets are dealing with a significant injury crisis as they prepare for this matchup:
SG Tamar Bates: OUT (foot)
SF Cam Johnson: OUT (knee)
SG Christian Braun: OUT (ankle)
PF Aaron Gordon: OUT (hamstring)
SG Julian Strawther: PROBABLE (illness)
C Nikola Jokic: OUT (knee)
Conversely, the Raptors have their own injury concerns:
C Jakob Poeltl: OUT (back)
Matchup Insights
The trajectory of the Nuggets and Raptors has been starkly contrasting in recent games. Denver suffered a devastating loss to the Orlando Magic despite holding a 17-point lead, and their situation worsened as Jokic sustained a knee injury during their subsequent game against the Miami Heat. This injury sidelines Jokic for a minimum of a month and compounds Denver’s woes, as they also miss key players like Christian Braun, Aaron Gordon, and Cam Johnson. This leaves Canadian point guard Jamal Murray as the lone healthy starter for the Nuggets.
On the other hand, the Raptors are experiencing a season-high surge. With two electrifying wins to kick off their homestand, they are looking to harness this momentum to take advantage of the Nuggets’ struggles. If they maintain their current form, the Raptors have a strong chance to extend their winning streak into the new year, aiming to capitalize on their opponents’ depleted roster.
As the Raptors prepare for this pivotal matchup, eyes will be on how they can continue their impressive run against a wounded yet determined Nuggets squad.
