Nuggets Hold Out Jokic and Murray Again Against Lakers

Los Angeles — Denver Nuggets sensations Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray were absent for a second straight game on Wednesday night against the Los Angeles Lakers as they manage persistent injuries, the team revealed.

In a pregame press session, Nuggets coach Michael Malone announced that Christian Braun, who was sidelined from Monday’s victory over the Golden State Warriors due to left foot inflammation, was set to play against the Lakers. However, he noted that Jokic and Murray were “much more questionable.”

Murray, who is recovering from a sprain in his right ankle, encountered difficulties during a quick one-on-one drill with Denver assistant coach John Beckett over two hours before the game. Jokic, the celebrated three-time MVP, is contending with an impinged left ankle and a bruise on his right shooting elbow.

“Listen to your body,” Malone advised. “As a head coach, I must place my trust in our players just as much as I rely on the training staff.”

Malone expressed his displeasure with the narrative suggesting the Nuggets are strategically resting Jokic and Murray, particularly in matchups that affect Western Conference playoff standings.

“That’s just a bunch of nonsense,” Malone asserted. “In the past decade, Nikola Jokic has participated in the second-most games in the NBA. Ten years. Among those in the top 10, none qualify as superstars.

“So if Nikola isn’t on the court, it’s certainly not due to rest. It’s because he’s genuinely injured and pushing through challenges that others might not. We’re reaching a stage where prioritizing the well-being of not just Nikola, but all our players, is essential as we aim to wrap up this season on a strong note.”