The Denver Nuggets achieved an impressive milestone on December 7, 2023, by defeating the Sacramento Kings 136-105. This victory marked the Nuggets’ 11th consecutive win on the road, showcasing their dominance away from home. The team has now clinched a 3-1 victory in their season series against Sacramento and stands at 18-6 overall.
Strong Performance by Jokic
Nikola Jokic was the standout player, scoring 36 points on an impressive 14 of 16 shooting. He began the game by demonstrating his versatility, mixing post moves with perimeter shots, including a successful three-pointer. Throughout the match, Jokic continued to find ways to score, ultimately adding 12 rebounds and contributing eight of Denver’s 35 assists.
The Nuggets’ success was not solely dependent on Jokic. His backup, Jonas Valanciunas, who previously played for Sacramento, also had a notable performance. Valanciunas scored 15 points without a miss from the field, effectively filling the role in the absence of Kings’ center Domantas Sabonis. The Nuggets’ centers collectively shot an impressive 21 of 23, accounting for a significant portion of the team’s scoring.
Contributions from Role Players
Jalen Pickett, who had previously shone under interim head coach David Adelman, provided valuable minutes during this game. He contributed six points, five rebounds, four assists, and two steals. His ability to facilitate plays, including a clever pass to Bruce Brown for a layup, showcased his growing role in the team.
Pickett has recently taken over the ninth-man position from Zeke Nnaji, who had been filling that role since Aaron Gordon’s hamstring injury. The Nuggets were a plus-10 with Pickett on the floor, highlighting his effective integration into the rotation.
Russell Westbrook, in contrast, continues to deliver standout performances for the Kings. Despite playing for a struggling organization, he was Sacramento’s leading scorer with 17 points. Westbrook has maintained an average of over seven rebounds and assists per game this season, proving his resilience and ability to perform under pressure. His efficiency as a three-point shooter has also improved, challenging his long-standing reputation.
In conclusion, the Nuggets’ consistent road success, combined with Jokic’s stellar performance and significant contributions from role players, positions them as a formidable contender as they prepare for their next game against the Houston Rockets. With three days off to regroup, the team looks ahead to maintaining their momentum in the league.
