Nikola Jokic showcased his triple-double prowess with 14 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists as the Denver Nuggets secured a commanding 117-96 victory over the short-handed Sacramento Kings. Jokic has now achieved triple-doubles in each of his last four games, totaling 19 for the season. The win helped Denver avoid a season-series sweep by Sacramento.
Jamal Murray played a pivotal role in the Nuggets’ triumph, contributing 32 points on an impressive 13-for-15 shooting performance. Aaron Gordon added 17 points, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Michael Porter Jr. chipped in with 16 and 14 points, respectively. Denver extended its winning streak to four games post the All-Star break.
De’Aaron Fox, a key figure in the Kings’ previous victories against Denver, was ruled out due to a left knee contusion an hour before the game. Despite the absence of Fox, Keegan Murray led the Kings with 21 points, supported by Chris Duarte’s 18 points and a double-double from Domantas Sabonis with 13 points and 10 rebounds.
The Kings initially led 47-32 in the second quarter, but Denver mounted a dominant comeback. Gordon’s impactful plays, including a three-point play and three dunks, fueled the turnaround. Jamal Murray’s 33-8 run, highlighted by two long-range 3-pointers, propelled the Nuggets to a 65-55 halftime lead.
Denver continued its surge into the third quarter, establishing an 18-point lead with a steal and dunk from Caldwell-Pope. The Nuggets extended their advantage to 100-68, with Murray’s circus layup contributing to the commanding lead. Sacramento briefly closed the gap to 104-83 early in the fourth quarter but failed to mount a serious threat as Denver secured a convincing victory.
