Sat Mar 08 06:00:00 UTC 2025: **Nuggets Edge Out Kings in Hard-Fought Victory Despite Injuries and Jokic’s Struggles**

DENVER — The Denver Nuggets secured a thrilling 116-110 victory over the Sacramento Kings Wednesday night at Ball Arena, overcoming a 14-point deficit in the second half. The win came despite a less-than-stellar performance from Nikola Jokic and a significant injury report.

Jokic, while contributing 22 points and 15 rebounds, struggled against the Kings’ defensive strategy, which focused on denying him the ball. His six turnovers mirrored his six assists. However, the Nuggets’ bench stepped up, led by Zeke Nnaji’s impressive performance. Nnaji, filling in at center, scored 10 points, grabbed three rebounds, and blocked three shots, playing a crucial role in a pivotal fourth-quarter run.

Russell Westbrook also delivered a strong performance, scoring 25 points, including 12 in the fourth quarter, and adding two steals and two blocks. Jamal Murray led the team with 24 points and eight assists, contributing a team-high plus-21 rating.

The Nuggets’ victory was further complicated by injuries. Aaron Gordon missed his fourth consecutive game, while Jokic himself played through left ankle inflammation. However, the team welcomed back Peyton Watson and Vlatko Cancar from injury. Watson played nearly 17 minutes after a 13-game absence, while Cancar returned to action after 49 games. The absence of Julian Strawther, who sprained his knee, also impacted the team’s lineup.

Despite a strong start from the Kings, who scored 42 points in the first quarter, the Nuggets tightened their defense significantly in the latter three quarters. The Kings were held to 23, 28, and 17 points respectively.

Coach Michael Malone praised his team’s defensive effort and highlighted the significance of the win against a strong Kings team on a four-game winning streak. He emphasized that while the game wasn’t pretty, the victory was a testament to the team’s resilience and depth. The Nuggets now stand at 40-22 on the season.

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