Nuggets Dominate Warriors and Gear Up for Pacers Showdown

DENVER, Colo. — The Denver Nuggets defeated the Golden State Warriors 129-104 on Friday night, improving their home record to 5-0 this season.

Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 26 points, while Jamal Murray added 23. Jokic sat out the entire fourth quarter of the game but was just shy of a triple-double, finishing with nine rebounds and nine assists.

The Nuggets have bounced back with six wins in their last seven games since their opening-night loss to the Warriors. They are currently in the midst of a four-game homestand, which continues Saturday against the Indiana Pacers.

Golden State was without star guard Stephen Curry for the second consecutive game due to illness. Warriors coach Steve Kerr stated that Curry felt better but had not yet returned to play. Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler were back in the lineup, scoring 17 and 16 points, respectively, as the Warriors struggled on the road for the fifth consecutive game.

While the Nuggets dominated early, the Warriors briefly closed the gap with an 11-0 run during a stretch when Jokic was resting. However, Murray’s two back-to-back three-pointers ignited a 34-18 run that ended the first half with Denver leading 66-49.

The Nuggets maintained their lead throughout the game, ensuring their position in the league’s West Group C, especially after a previous loss in the round-robin portion of the NBA Cup against Portland on October 31.

As the Nuggets prepare for the Pacers, their focus will be crucial. The Pacers are battling extensive injuries, with several key players listed as out or questionable, creating a clearer path to victory for Denver.

Nuggets head coach emphasized the need for sustained focus against a depleted Pacers team. Tip-off for the game against Indiana is scheduled for 7:00 PM MDT at Ball Arena.