Nuggets’ First Back-to-Back Without Key Players Shows Team Depth
David Adelman used a 10-man rotation during the Nuggets’ first back-to-back of the season, despite missing Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon. Even without their second and third-best players, Denver appeared precise and dominant.
Game Overview
The Nuggets secured a 117-100 victory over a weakened Indiana Pacers team on Saturday. Denver, now 7-2, completed a flawless four-game home stand, largely due to balanced contributions across the roster.
- Nikola Jokic had a standout performance with 32 points, 14 rebounds, and 14 assists despite eight turnovers.
- Peyton Watson, stepping in as a starter, added 16 points, seven rebounds, and three steals.
- The bench remained productive, highlighted by a 17-point night from a reserve player.
Home Dominance
The Nuggets improved to 6-0 at home this season and have yet to trail in any second half game at Ball Arena.
Injury and Rotation Notes
Murray has been managing intermittent calf tightness recently, while Gordon was officially sidelined for left hamstring management. Their absences were mostly precautionary, coming after Denver’s first back-to-back with only 24 hours of rest.
"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 status. "But he had some explosive plays last night. And Aaron's a guy we have to protect in that sense."
The team's ability to maintain high performance without key players may suggest a template for future lineups during tough schedules.
Author’s summary: The Nuggets exhibited strong depth and resilience during their first back-to-back this season, winning at home without Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon, indicating a promising rotation strategy.