Nikola Jokic delivered a career-best 56 points on Saturday night, but the Denver Nuggets fell 122-113 to the Washington Wizards, extending their tough stretch this season.
Jokic’s performance, which included 16 rebounds and eight assists, wasn’t enough to overcome a shorthanded roster missing Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Dario Saric.
After the loss, Jokic emphasized the need for a reaction from his team. Reflecting on the Nuggets’ 11-10 record and ninth place in the Western Conference, he stated, via Bennett Durando, “In my country, after this kind of stretch, your paycheck might reflect it. Maybe that’s what we need — a little motivation that way.”
Denver’s reliance on Jokic was evident as other starters, including Michael Porter Jr. and Russell Westbrook, struggled offensively. The team’s three-point shooting woes continued, hitting just 20.8% from beyond the arc. Jokic himself attempted a career-high 38 shots in the game, showcasing his determination to carry the team.
Meanwhile, the Wizards snapped a 16-game losing streak, tying a franchise record, and improved to 3-18. Jordan Poole led Washington with a career-high 39 points, connecting on nine three-pointers. Justin Champagnie contributed 23 points, while Jonas Valanciunas added 20 points and 12 rebounds.
Denver’s bench offered glimpses of promise, with Julian Strawther scoring 18 points in 32 minutes. However, the team’s inability to capitalize on offensive opportunities and their lack of defensive intensity exposed vulnerabilities.
The Nuggets have now dropped several games in recent weeks, highlighting the challenges of sustaining success after winning the NBA championship in 2023. With a tough stretch ahead, Denver must find consistency and provide Jokic with adequate support to regain momentum in the competitive Western Conference.
