Nuggets’ First Back-to-Back of the Season Without Key Players
David Adelman utilized a 10-man rotation during the Denver Nuggets’ first back-to-back this season without Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon. Despite missing their second- and third-best players, Denver showcased a strong, efficient performance, defeating the depleted Indiana Pacers 117-100 on Saturday.
Team Performance and Key Contributions
- Nikola Jokic scored 32 points, grabbed 14 rebounds, and provided 14 assists, overcoming eight turnovers.
- Peyton Watson, filling in as a starter, contributed 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals.
- Another bench player maintained scoring momentum with 17 points.
The Nuggets improved to 7-2 overall and 6-0 at home this season, continuing their streak of never trailing in the second half at Ball Arena.
Injury Updates and Coaching Comments
Jamal Murray has struggled with intermittent calf tightness in recent weeks, while Aaron Gordon is managing a left hamstring injury. Both were out as a precaution, given Denver’s quick turnaround with just 24 hours of 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’s injury. "But he had some explosive plays last night. And Aaron's a guy we have to protect in that sense..."
Summary
This back-to-back game without key players highlighted Denver’s depth, revealing a possible template for sustained success despite injury challenges.
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