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 — to lead the short-handed Denver Nuggets to a 117–100 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night, completing a four-game homestand sweep.
Key Performances
- Nikola Jokic: 32 points, 14 rebounds, 14 assists
- Peyton Watson: Season-high 16 points
- Aaron Nesmith: 25 points for Indiana
- Andrew Nembhard: 22 points in his return from injury
Shorthanded Denver Performance
Denver played without key players Jamal Murray, sidelined with left calf tightness, and Aaron Gordon, out with a left hamstring issue. Jalen Pickett and Peyton Watson started in their place, contributing significantly to the team’s victory.
“If he feels something that can turn into something worse, there is a little bit of apprehension,” said Denver coach David Adelman before the game. “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.”
Pacers’ Continuing Struggles
Indiana, missing several players early in the season, suffered its eighth loss in nine games. Guard Andrew Nembhard returned after missing seven games with a shoulder strain. The recently signed Monte Morris scored one point in 15 minutes of play.
Author’s summary
Denver overcame injuries to secure a dominating win as Nikola Jokic powered the team with another triple-double while the Pacers continued their rough start to the season.