Nuggets’ First Back-to-Back of the Season Without Key Players
David Adelman managed a 10-man rotation in the Denver Nuggets’ first back-to-back game this season, despite missing Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon. The team maintained their efficiency regardless of lineup changes.
Game Summary
On Saturday, Denver secured a 117-100 victory over a depleted Indiana Pacers team. Even without their second- and third-best players, the Nuggets completed a flawless four-game home stand. The team improved their home record to 6-0 this season and have never trailed in the second half at Ball Arena.
Player Highlights
- Nikola Jokic managed 32 points, 14 rebounds, and 14 assists despite eight turnovers.
- Peyton Watson contributed 16 points, seven rebounds, and three steals as a starter.
- Coming off the bench, another key player scored 17 points.
Injuries and Precautions
Murray has been coping with intermittent calf tightness over the past week, while Gordon's official designation was left hamstring management. Their absence was a precaution due to the short 24-hour rest between games.
"If you feel something that you know could turn into something worse, I think there is a little bit of apprehension," said David Adelman regarding Gordon appearing on the injury report. "But he had some explosive plays last night. And Aaron's a guy we have to protect in that sense..."
Team Outlook
The Nuggets continue to demonstrate depth and resilience even when missing key players, indicating a possible lineup strategy for future back-to-back games.
Nikola Jokic is scoring less, and the team is adapting accordingly.
Author’s summary: The Nuggets showed strong adaptability and depth in their first back-to-back without key players Murray and Gordon, cruising to a decisive home victory and maintaining an undefeated record at Ball Arena.