Completing a disappointing 5-game road trip with just one victory, the Denver Nuggets return home with sagging shoulders and downcast faces. Their recent match against the Houston Rockets ended in a 105-86 blowout. Furthermore, to add to the disappointment, they are now eliminated from the In-Season Tournament. However, Houston’s advancement is still pending; contingent on the outcome of the game between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Los Angeles Clippers.

Nikola Jokic put on a remarkable performance with 38 points, 19 rebounds, and eight assists. However, with his 14-31 shooting, it was evident that he needed a little, if not more, help from the roster.

Mike Malone aims to set things straight in Denver

As the Nuggets geared up to return home after a disheartening road trip, Coach Mike Malone delivered a concise message. Although he was speaking to the media, it resonated as a clear warning to his own team; particularly the second unit.

“I just told them, I’m going to start playing different people. You just can’t go out there because you think you’re going to play and go out there and do nothing. You’ve got to bring something to the party. Give Justin Holiday credit,” he reportedly said.

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While acknowledging the complexity of integrating young and up-and-coming players from the bench with the starters, Mike Malone emphasized the imperative nature of winning games to stay aligned with the team’s overall goal.

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It was a balanced diet for the Rockets

Even though the Nuggets out-rebounded the Rockets on the offensive end with 10 boards, they couldn’t translate it on the scoreboard. The hosts played a more cohesive game, sharing the ball and taking things to the paint whenever needed. Jokic is not one to be easily pushed out of his rhythm. However, the Rockets’ defensive efforts disrupted his usual rhythm on an off-shooting night. The Rockets collectively stifled Denver, holding them to a mere 34.0% (less than 25% on threes) shooting throughout the game.

On the offensive front, key names met expectations. Jalen Green led the charge with 25 points, shooting 10-18 from the field. On the other hand, Alperen Sengun contributed significantly with 21 points; along with 15 boards and 8 assists.

Delivering what he was called for, Fred VanVleet notched 17 points and distributed 11 assists. Furthermore, he also grabbed 6 rebounds and 2 blocks. Additionally, Jabari Smith Jr. posted 16 points and 15 rebounds.

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In total, four Rockets players achieved double-digit scoring, and three of them recorded a double-double.