Former MVP Nikola Jokic and future Hall of Famer DeMar DeRozan headline our look at tonight’s Nuggets vs. Kings matchup. Denver enters this game with an impressive 7-2 record, sitting two games behind the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the Northwest Division. Sacramento, meanwhile, has struggled out of the gate with a 3-7 start.
The Denver Nuggets visit Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center for a late-night tip-off at 11:00 p.m. The Kings will look to bounce back after recent losses, while Denver hopes to extend its hot streak.
Nikola Jokic over the last 4 games: 31.3 PPG, 13.3 APG, 11.3 RPG, 2.0 SPG, 0.8 BPG, 69.6% FG, 47.4% 3P, 87.0% FT, +15.3 plus/minus, 33.1 MPG, Denver 4-0.
DeMar DeRozan vs. Timberwolves: 22 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists. Kings lost 117–144.
As a starter (5 games): 20.2 PPG, 6.6 APG, 9.2 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 52.8 FG%, 56.1 3P%, 65.7 TS%.
Off the bench (5 games): 9.8 PPG, 4.4 APG, 3.6 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 37.0 FG%, 35.0 3P%, 47.4 TS%.
These numbers make a strong case that Russell Westbrook should remain in the Kings’ starting lineup to maximize their offensive efficiency.
The Nuggets are looking to maintain their momentum against a struggling Sacramento squad in what should be a dynamic Western Conference matchup. Betters are eyeing Jokic and DeRozan as the key difference-makers tonight.
Author’s summary: Denver’s balanced power led by Jokic meets Sacramento’s inconsistency as DeRozan shines, promising a tense NBA clash in California’s capital.