Short-handed Nuggets Triumph Over Pacers
Nikola Jokic recorded 32 points, 14 rebounds, and 14 assists, marking his sixth triple-double in nine games this season. He led the Denver Nuggets to a 117-100 victory against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night, helping Denver complete a four-game home stand sweep.
Team Challenges and Lineup Adjustments
The Nuggets played without key players Jamal Murray (left calf tightness) and Aaron Gordon (left hamstring) in the second game of a back-to-back schedule. Jalen Pickett and Peyton Watson, who scored a season-high 16 points, started in their places. Gordon, who missed 31 games last season due to injuries, is currently averaging a career-best 20.1 points per game.
“If he feels something that can turn into something worse, there is a little bit of apprehension,” said Denver coach David Adelman. “Aaron’s a guy we have to protect … because there’s just not that many human beings that are that big and jump that high and explode like that.”
Indiana Pacers' Struggles
The Pacers have faced multiple player absences this season and have now lost eight of their last nine games. They welcomed back Andrew Nembhard, who returned from a left shoulder strain that sidelined him for seven games.
- Aaron Nesmith scored 25 points for Indiana.
- Andrew Nembhard added 22 points.
- Monte Morris, signed on Friday, played 15 minutes and scored one point.
"Indiana, which has been without multiple players at the start of the season, lost for the eighth time in nine games."
The Nuggets’ ability to win despite missing key players highlights their depth and resilience this season.
Would you like the summary to be more formal or casual?