The Deficient Nuggets Perform Well in Sacramento.
The Kings aggressively targeted Jokić inside, securing approval from the officiating crew for their physical play. The inconsistent whistling, or lack thereof, regarding Jokić was frustrating, a recurring theme whenever he takes the court, regardless of the game’s outcome. Denver faced more significant challenges, such as the absence of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Michael Porter Jr., along with a departure from their usual offensive focus.
Despite Jokić’s standout performance, the absence of key shooters and a flurry of turnovers from teammates allowed Domantas Sabonis to gain the upper hand. While the blowout’s context is acknowledged, the bottom line is that it was a below-par effort from the typically stellar player.
Jamal Murray received a grade of D, unable to sustain the momentum from his impressive performance in Los Angeles. He struggled with turnovers, recording six while only managing three assists. Murray appeared fatigued, failing to contribute positively in scoring, rebounding, or defense.
Aaron Gordon earned a grade of C, contributing 14 points on 5/8 shooting but struggling on the glass and experiencing a decline in production after halftime.
Peyton Watson received a grade of D+, starting but facing foul trouble in the first half. His defensive prowess was evident, but he committed four turnovers, including a crucial one at the end of the first quarter that marked the beginning of the end for the Nuggets.
Justin Holiday, given a D+, attempted nine threes and ten shots in his spot start, highlighting Denver’s challenge in winning without a stellar shooting performance from him.
Christian Braun, with a grade of C+, provided some positive moments off the bench, leading the second unit in scoring with an efficient 14 points, showing signs of improvement despite the overall loss.
Reggie Jackson received a grade of C, displaying uncontained chaos in Sacramento, hitting 3/5 shots but also making wild attempts and committing four turnovers.
Julian Strawther, given a D+, returned to NBA action after an extended absence, showing signs of rust with a 3/8 shooting performance and 1/5 from deep, along with missed opportunities and turnovers.
DeAndre Jordan received a grade of F, struggling in his roughly six minutes on the court in the first half. Despite rebounding well, the minutes were deemed disastrous, leading to Coach Malone opting for Zeke Nnaji.
Zeke Nnaji, with a grade of D, had an extended run during garbage time, but it did not translate into a positive story for the Nuggets, reflecting the team’s overall challenging performance.
