Nikola Jokic’s 22-point double-double was insufficient to overcome the Phoenix Suns, who defeated them 97-104 at the Ball Arena on Wednesday (March 27). The Nuggets were without Jamal Murray, so the offensive weight rested on the two-time NBA MVP’s shoulders.
While Jokic did dole out 10 assists and make some spectacular plays down the stretch, the Suns managed to keep him and Denver under control. Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon both scored 18 points, but it wasn’t enough as the visitors defeated the team for the second game this month.
In 42 minutes of action, Jokic shot 9-16 from the field and 1-5 from three. He finished the game with nine rebounds, two steals, and one block.
Kevin Durant led the Suns with 30 points and 13 rebounds. Devin Booker finished the evening with 17 points, five rebounds, and nine assists. Bradley Beal recorded ten points, four rebounds, and seven assists.
Despite the setback, Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets continue to lead the Western Conference. They are 51-22, tied with the Minnesota Timberwolves with 22 defeats while leading by one win. The Nuggets have nine games left in the regular season.
Nikola Jokic battling hip discomfort ahead of big showdown against the Phoenix Suns.Nikola Jokic was expected to start in the showpiece game against the Phoenix Suns. The Joker was included on the team’s injury report due to lower back and hip pain.
Jokic has been a driving force for the Nuggets this season, averaging 26.1 points, 12.3 rebounds, and nine assists. Prior to this fame, the defending champions were in excellent form, winning nine of their last ten games. Their most recent loss came in overtime to the Suns on March 5.
The Nuggets will hope that Jokic does not sustain significant injuries, given the team is already without shooter Jamal Murray, who has missed the last two games due to an ankle ailment. With the team’s think-tank already regulating the burden on that front, only time will tell whether they decide to manage Nikola Jokic’s load in the final few games of the regular season.