Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray Miss Second Consecutive Game Due to Injuries
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Denver Nuggets stars Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray were sidelined for the second consecutive game on Wednesday night as the team faced the Los Angeles Lakers. Both players are nursing injuries that have kept them off the court for the past two games.
Injury Details
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Nikola Jokić: The three-time NBA MVP is dealing with a left ankle impingement and a contusion to his right shooting elbow. (reuters.com)
- Jamal Murray: The point guard is recovering from a sprained right ankle. (reuters.com)
Both players also missed the previous game against the Golden State Warriors, which the Nuggets won 114-105. (reuters.com)
Coach Michael Malone’s Perspective
Nuggets head coach Michael Malone emphasized the importance of player health and trust in the training staff. He stated,
"You listen to your body. I have to, as a head coach, trust our players as well as trust the training staff."Malone also addressed misconceptions about resting key players during critical games, particularly against teams competing for Western Conference playoff positioning. He remarked,
"I think that's just a bunch of bulls---. I mean, in the last 10 years, Nikola Jokić has played the second-most games in the NBA. Ten years. And the guys in that top 10, none of them are superstars."He further emphasized that Jokić’s absence is due to injury, not rest, and that the team must prioritize the well-being of all players as they approach the end of the season.
Team Performance Without Key Players
Despite the absence of Jokić and Murray, the Nuggets secured a victory against the Warriors. Aaron Gordon led the team with a season-high 38 points, and Russell Westbrook recorded his 203rd career triple-double, contributing 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 16 assists. (reuters.com)
Looking Ahead
The Nuggets continue to monitor the health of their star players as they prepare for upcoming games. The team’s ability to perform without Jokić and Murray will be crucial as they aim to maintain their position in the Western Conference standings.
Denver Nuggets’ Injury Updates and Game Highlights:
- Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray ruled out vs. Lakers
- Minus two stars, Nuggets still upend Warriors
