The Denver Nuggets secured a 111-105 victory against the short-handed Philadelphia 76ers. 

Reigning MVP Joel Embiid was a late scratch for the 76ers due to knee soreness, marking the fourth consecutive time he has sat out a game in Denver. The Sixers were also without Tobias Harris, Tyrese Maxey, De’Anthony Melton, and Robert Covington.

Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with a double-double, contributing 26 points and 16 rebounds, while Jamal Murray added 23 points. Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon also played key roles, scoring 20 and 18 points, respectively.

For the Sixers, Paul Reed had an impressive performance with a career-high 30 points and 13 rebounds, while Kelly Oubre Jr. contributed 25 points. Patrick Beverley and Marcus Morris Sr. each scored 17 points.

The game remained competitive, with the Nuggets struggling to pull away from the depleted Sixers. In the fourth quarter, the lead changed hands, but the Nuggets ultimately secured the win. Jokic’s offensive rebound and putback sparked a crucial 7-0 run, helping Denver maintain control in the closing minutes.

The victory for the Nuggets came despite the absence of key players for the 76ers, highlighting the depth and resilience of the Denver squad.