The Denver Nuggets (40-22) turned it up in the clutch, stopping the streaking Sacramento Kings (32-29) with a gritty 116-110 victory on March 6.
Denver Nuggets Top Performers:
Nikola Jokic 22 PTS | 15 REB | 6 AST | 45.0 FPS
Joker played through an ankle issue but continues to dominate, recording his sixth double-double since the break. His scoring output has been lower than usual, but he has compensated with huge rebounding numbers. However, he’s averaged nearly six turnovers in five of his last six games.
Jamal Murray 24 PTS | 14-15 FT | 8 AST | 43.8 FPS
Murray has scored 24+ points in three-straight games with a near-perfect performance at the line. He’s been excellent offensively since last month, never shooting below 40% from the field and hitting four or more three-pointers six times. He has also recorded at least one stock in ten-straight games while also consistently putting up good playmaking numbers.
Russell Westbrook 25 PTS | 2 STL | 2 BLK | 43.5 FPS
Russ came up big in the fourth quarter, dropping 12 points to spark the comeback win while also recording his best scoring game since the break. He has been starting with Gordon sidelined and remains a steady contributor in rebounds and assists, but inefficiency continues to be a concern.
Christian Braun 15 PTS | 7 REB | 1 BLK | 31.9 FPS
Braun’s scoring output has declined lately, falling under 20 points for the fifth time in seven games. However, he remains an asset as an important piece of the team’s rotation and with his ability to contribute strongly across the board.
Zeke Nnaji 10 PTS | 1 STL | 3 BLK | 25.6 FPS
Nnaji was a solid source of rebounds and stocks last month amid the team’s injuries. However, he is currently dealing with an ankle sprain, and with the team’s health mostly improving, his role and production are likely to take a hit. Consider adding him only, if you really need blocks.
Sacramento Kings Top Performers:
Jonas Valanciunas 19 PTS | 13 REB | 6 AST | 47.6 FPS
JV has been filling in strongly for Sabonis, steadily emerging as a double-double threat while also racking up stocks in his last three games. He should remain an elite fantasy option as long as Sabonis is out.
DeMar DeRozan 35 PTS | 6 REB | 5 AST | 46.7 FPS
DeRozan’s efficiency has been up and down lately, but he still recorded his fourth 30+ point game and has scored at least 17 points in all but one game since last month. He’s also contributing well in rebounds and playmaking, but his lack of defensive stats has dampened his value.
Keon Ellis 11 PTS | 2 STL | 2 BLK | 34.9 FPS
Ellis started and delivered a solid full stat-line with Monk out. He’s been productive offensively, scoring in double figures three times in his last four games, but his real impact comes on defense, where he’s averaging four stocks over that span. He should continue to be a key contributor off the bench, though he’s struggling with foul trouble in recent games.
Zach LaVine 20 PTS | 4 REB | 6 AST | 34.8 FPS
LaVine has been a steady hand on offense, scoring 20+ points in four straight games after dropping 42 against the Hornets. He’s been efficient across all shooting areas while making a well-rounded impact and could see increased usage if Monk remains sidelined.
Jake LaRavia 15 PTS | 5 REB | 2 STL | 27.5 FPS
LaRavia should see more minutes moving forward with Sabonis missing more time. He can contribute as a scorer and rebounder, but his inconsistency and the team’s depth make him a tough player to roster.
Biggest Disappointment of the Game:
Michael Porter Jr. 13 PTS | 12 REB | 1 BLK
MPJ has emerged as a double-double threat in recent weeks, but his inefficiency is a concern, with three rough shooting performances in his last four games.
