The Denver Nuggets continued their impressive run, defeating the Sacramento Kings 136-105 on December 7, 2023. This victory marked the Nuggets’ 11th consecutive win on the road, solidifying their position with an overall record of 18-6. The team now enjoys a three-day break before facing the Houston Rockets.
Jokic Shines with Stellar Performance
Nikola Jokic showcased his scoring prowess throughout the game, contributing a remarkable 36 points on 14 of 16 shooting. He began his offensive display close to the basket, executing spins around defenders for easy baskets before stretching his range with a fade-away jumper and a successful three-pointer. Jokic’s shooting accuracy was evident as he also recorded 12 rebounds and facilitated eight of the team’s 35 assists.
The Kings struggled defensively, particularly in the absence of their star player, Domantas Sabonis. Jokic’s backup, who had previously been traded from Sacramento, provided an impressive performance of his own. Jonas Valanciunas added 15 points without missing a shot, demonstrating the depth of the Nuggets’ big men. Collectively, Denver’s centers converted 21 of 23 attempts, accounting for 38% of the team’s total points.
Supporting Cast Steps Up
Jalen Pickett, who has been working to earn his place in the rotation, contributed significantly to the game. His performance in Sacramento was reminiscent of his impactful outing earlier in the season, where he scored 18 points in a crucial victory. On this occasion, Pickett added six points, five rebounds, four assists, and two steals, showcasing his versatility on the court. His ability to read plays and assist teammates was evident, particularly when he delivered a no-look pass to Bruce Brown for an easy layup.
Denver’s coach, David Adelman, noted Pickett’s growth as a player, especially in stepping up during critical moments. Over the past two games, he has effectively replaced Zeke Nnaji in the rotation, helping the Nuggets maintain a plus-10 differential with him on the floor.
Russell Westbrook, in his 18th NBA season, continues to impress despite playing for a struggling Sacramento team. He led the Kings with 17 points against Denver, capitalizing on his experience and determination. Westbrook’s performance against the Nuggets has been consistently strong, as he has been the leading scorer in three of their last four matchups. Despite the challenges, he averages over seven rebounds and assists per game, showing that he remains a valuable player even in a tough situation.
The Nuggets’ recent dominance on the road highlights their potential as a serious contender this season. As they prepare for the upcoming matchup against the Rockets, the team will look to continue their winning momentum and build on their success.
