Sat Apr 05 00:40:00 UTC 2025: **Nuggets Rest Starters After Double-OT Loss, Jokic’s Career Night**

DENVER (AP) — Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone made the surprising decision to rest all five of his starting players for Wednesday night’s game against the San Antonio Spurs. The move comes less than 24 hours after a grueling 140-139 double-overtime loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, a game in which Nikola Jokic set a career high with 61 points.

Jokic, battling elbow and ankle injuries, played a staggering 53 minutes against Minnesota, as did teammate Christian Braun (sore foot). Also sidelined against the Spurs due to injuries were Aaron Gordon (calf) and Jamal Murray (hamstring). Michael Porter Jr. missed the game due to a family matter.

Malone acknowledged the fatigue factor in his decision, stating that he informed Jokic after Tuesday’s game that he would be sitting out the following night. While Jokic has previously resisted rest days, Malone said this time there was no debate. “This wasn’t going to be a discussion,” Malone explained. “Nikola will play through anything, and sometimes you have to be the coach.”

Despite the absence of his star players, Malone expressed confidence in the remaining roster. “Our identity isn’t just tied to five starters,” he said. “We have more than enough in that locker room to go out there and beat the Spurs.” The coach emphasized the team’s commitment to its culture and winning regardless of who’s on the court.

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