The Memphis Grizzlies already had a difficult assignment in defeating the Denver Nuggets at full strength inside Ball Arena. It was practically impossible to do so without Ja Morant.

Nikola Jokic delivered a near-perfect performance for the Nuggets, recording a triple-double in three-quarters of action. Memphis trailed the Nuggets by as many as 38 points in a 142-105 defeat.

The Grizzlies were led by Desmond Bane, who scored 23 points on 9-of-13 shooting. Marcus Smart scored 17 points, and Jaren Jackson Jr. added 14.

Jokic led the Nuggets with 26 points, followed by Jamal Murray’s 23.

Memphis challenged Peyton Watson to a shot. He scored 20 points while filling in for injured Nuggets starter Aaron Gordon, nailing four 3-pointers.

The Memphis Grizzlies (10-20) return to action tomorrow night against the Los Angeles Clippers.