3 things we learned from the loss of Denver Nuggets against Indiana Pacers

Denver Nuggets suffered their fourth consecutive loss, falling to the Indiana Pacers 125-120 in a competition next Sunday night. This defeat lowered its record to 47-32, and its lost streak arrives at a critical time, with only two parties separating number 3 at number 8 in the western conference classification.

Nikola Jokic He had another remarkable performance, publishing 41 points, 15 rebounds and 13 assists to carry the burden in the absence of Jamal Murray. Christian Braun also contributed to 30 points, but it was not enough to win.

The Nuggets maintained a 99-98 lead with 15 minutes in the fourth quarter, but the pacers went through 15-5 to get an advantage of 113-104. The pacers, who were without Pascal Siakam, defended the latebugs of the nuggets to achieve the five -point victory, with Myles Turner and Obi Toppin directing the pacers with 24 and 22 points, respectively.

Then there are three to take away from the loss of the nuggets to the pacers.

3 things we learned from the loss of Denver Nuggets against Indiana Pacers

#1. The nuggets Miss Jamal Murray

Jamal Murray, who signed a significant extension in the season outside the season that solidified his role as Nuggets' number 2 option, has been absent during the last five games, including the loss for pacers.

Without him, the nuggets have struggled to replicate their contributions. Since February, Murray has promised 23.8 points, 6.0 assists and 3.3 rebounds.

#2. Nikola Jokic can't make all heavy weight

Nikola Jokic offered another dominant performance and, in the last three games, all losses, has promised 45.0 PPG, 12.3 RP and 10.7 APG. Includes a game of 10 points, 10 points and 10 attendees in a loss of double twenty in the Timberwolves of Minnesota.

While Jokic continues to put in superstar numbers, he needs a reliable option number 2. Recently Christian Braun, Michael Porter Jr. Aaron Gordon They have increased, but none has been constantly prominent.

#3. Nuggets must step on defense

The defense of the nuggets was missing, with the lack of rotations and struggled to stop the pacers. Since losing Bruce Brown and Kentavius ​​Caldwell-Pope, the nuggets have not been able to replicate the strong defense that helped them win the championship in 2023, and has been evident tonight.

The nuggets left 15 points in 44 attempts and allowed six pacers to mark two digits. Even with a 55-47 lead in the rebound, they could not secure key defensive stops when they counted and allowed the Pacers to shoot 59.6% in two-point attempts.

The Nuggets path ahead will only be tougher, as its next three games are against teams fighting for the Playoff positions: the Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies and Rockets of Houston. Only the game against the Grizzlies will be at home.