Denver Nuggets vs Milwaukee Bucks injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (January 23, 2026)

The Denver Nuggets host the Milwaukee Bucks on January 23, 2026, at Ball Arena. On paper, it’s a marquee matchup. In reality, injuries may decide most of it.Denver has been strong at home this season, while Milwaukee is trying to build on recent results. Both teams still have top-end talent, but availability will shape rotations and late-game choices.Denver Nuggets are dealing with the heavier load. Nikola Jokić remains out with a knee injury after missing recent games. Jamal Murray is questionable due to an ankle sprain and has not looked fully explosive when limited.Aaron Gordon (right hamstring) and Christian Braun (left ankle) are listed as probable, though their minutes could be monitored. Spencer Jones is also questionable.Milwaukee Bucks' list is shorter but still important. Jonas Valanciunas is out with a calf injury, and Cameron Johnson is sidelined with a knee issue. That puts more responsibility on Giannis Antetokounmpo, who recently returned after missing time.Without Jokić, Denver will rely more on effort and depth. Peyton Watson is expected to see a larger role, while Bruce Brown helps steady the rotation, especially if Braun is limited.Milwaukee comes in healthier overall. Giannis leads a group that has gone 5-2 since his return, and the Bucks should have more consistent scoring options if the game stays close.The Nuggets lead the all-time regular-season series 67-41 across 108 games. The last five meetings have been tighter, with Denver holding a 3-2 edge. Denver won 108-104 on January 11, 2026, despite injuries on both sides. Other recent games, including a 90-89 Bucks win on July 10, 2025, were decided late.Denver sits at 29-15 and has been reliable at home. Milwaukee is 18-25 and has struggled on the road, though scoring has improved since Giannis returned. Denver’s defense has held up without Jokić, but an 87-point game against Atlanta recently showed how thin their margin can be.Denver Nuggets’ home record keeps this competitive, but Milwaukee Bucks’ healthier lineup could matter late, especially if Murray does not play. Expect a physical game where bench minutes and execution decide it.