Detroit Pistons vs Denver Nuggets injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (January 27, 2026)

The Detroit Pistons head to Denver on January 27 sitting near the top of the Eastern Conference. They’ve earned that spot by defending well, rebounding, and keeping their rotation steady. Availability has mattered, and Detroit has had more of it than most teams.The Denver Nuggets are in a different place. They are still in the Western Conference mix, but injuries have taken a toll. With key starters out and others limited, this game is about execution and depth rather than star power.Detroit’s injury list is short.Out: • Caris LeVert - Illness • Isaac Jones - G League assignmentEveryone else is expected to play, including Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren, and Isaiah Stewart. Detroit will have most of its regular rotation available.Denver Nuggets are missing several core players.Out: • Nikola Jokić - Left knee bone bruise • Aaron Gordon - Right hamstring strain • Christian Braun - Left ankle sprain • Cameron Johnson - Right knee bone bruise • Tamar Bates - Left foot surgeryProbable: • Jamal Murray - Hamstring inflammation and hip soreness • Jonas Valančiūnas - Right calf strain • Peyton Watson - Ankle strainsEven if the probable players suit up, Denver’s rotation is thinner than usual.Detroit is expected to start Cunningham, Ivey, Harris, Duren, and Stewart. With LeVert out, more playmaking falls on Cunningham and Ivey, especially in half-court sets.Denver may start Murray if available, along with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Watson, Zeke Nnaji, and Valančiūnas. Without Jokić, the Nuggets lose their main scorer and facilitator, forcing others to create shots and move the offense.Detroit Pistons vs Denver NuggetsHead-to-head contextThe teams have played 101 regular-season games. Detroit holds a narrow 52-49 edge. Denver has won all four meetings over the past three seasons, largely behind Jokić’s play, which won’t be a factor here.Detroit enters this matchup near the top of the East. Denver remains in the upper part of the West despite injuries.Also read: Is Nikola Jokic playing tonight vs the Detroit Pistons? Latest update on the Denver Nuggets star's injury report (January 27, 2026)Detroit has an edge in health, depth, and rebounding. Cunningham faces a weakened Denver backcourt, and Detroit’s bigs should have chances inside. Denver needs strong three-point shooting and solid minutes from Murray to stay competitive. If Detroit controls the boards and limits mistakes, it is well positioned to win on the road.