NBA: Short-Handed Denver Nuggets Complete Homestand Sweep Behind Jokic's Triple-Double Performance

Nikola Jokic delivered an impressive performance with 32 points, 14 rebounds, and 14 assists, marking his sixth triple-double in nine games this season. The Denver Nuggets, despite missing key players

Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon, secured a 117-100 victory over the Indiana Pacers. Jalen Pickett and Peyton Watson stepped up, with Watson scoring a season-high of 16 points.

DeAaron Fox made a strong return in his season debut for the San Antonio Spurs, scoring 24 points. Victor Wembanyama contributed significantly with 18 points and 18 rebounds. The Spurs triumphed over the New Orleans Pelicans with a score of 126-119. Stephon Castle also played a crucial role by adding 14 points and matching that with 14 assists.

The Atlanta Hawks ended the Los Angeles Lakers' five-game winning streak with a decisive 122-102 win. Mouhamed Gueye led the Hawks with a career-high of 21 points. Despite missing several starters, Atlanta maintained control throughout the game. Dyson Daniels added to the effort with 10 points, 13 assists, and eight rebounds.

In their match against the Lakers, Atlanta built an early lead of 37-20 after one quarter. Gueye's contribution included seven rebounds and seven assists. The Hawks extended their advantage to 62-47 by halftime. Although Los Angeles narrowed the gap to ten points at one stage, Atlanta responded effectively to maintain their lead.

Aaron Gordon's absence was notable as he averages a career-best of 20.1 points this season but missed this game due to injury concerns. Meanwhile, Indiana's Andrew Nembhard returned from a shoulder strain that sidelined him for seven games, contributing 22 points in his comeback.

The Pacers have struggled recently, losing eight out of nine games despite Aaron Nesmith's strong showing with 25 points against Denver. Jokic managed to achieve his triple-double by assisting Cam Johnson in the third quarter.

Spurs' Strategic Moves

Fox's return marks only his sixth game alongside Wembanyama since joining San Antonio from Sacramento in February through a three-team trade involving Chicago. His previous season ended prematurely due to surgery on his left pinky finger tendon. He also faced a right hamstring injury during offseason preparations for his first full season with the Spurs.

Trey Murphy III stood out for New Orleans by equalling his career-high of 41 points on efficient shooting. He impressed further by making five out of eleven three-point attempts, including an impressive long-range shot at the end of the third quarter.

Luka Doncic was limited to just 17 points against Atlanta after averaging an impressive 40 points per game this season. He also recorded eleven assists and five rebounds before exiting midway through the third quarter.

The Nuggets' victory completed a four-game homestand sweep despite playing back-to-back games without some regulars due to injuries. This resilience highlights Denver's depth and adaptability under challenging circumstances.