The Denver Nuggets faced a tough challenge against the Sacramento Kings, especially after playing the previous night in Los Angeles. Despite a solid start defensively, the Kings found their rhythm and took control of the game, ultimately securing a comfortable victory.

In the first quarter, Denver showed promise with strong defense, but Sacramento responded with a run to take the lead. Justin Holiday provided a boost with a couple of three-pointers, but the defense began to falter as the benches rotated in. The quarter ended with Jokic leaving briefly due to a knee bump but ultimately returning. However, a late surge from the Kings, including back-to-back threes, trimmed Denver’s lead to just three points.

The Kings seized the lead early in the second quarter, capitalizing on Denver’s struggles to find offensive rhythm off the bench. Despite efforts to stay close, turnovers and three-point shooting from Sacramento widened the gap. By halftime, the Nuggets trailed 67-57.

The start of the second half mirrored the second quarter, with Denver continuing to struggle with turnovers while Sacramento extended their lead. Frustration showed as Gordon slammed a towel during a timeout, leading to his benching. Although the Nuggets mounted a brief comeback, turnovers plagued their efforts, and they entered the fourth quarter facing a significant deficit.

The fourth quarter saw more turnovers from Denver, prompting a rage timeout from Coach Malone. Even with lineup changes, including extended minutes for Colin Gillespie, the Kings maintained their dominance. Denver’s reserves were outplayed, and the deficit continued to grow, resulting in a lopsided loss for the Nuggets.

Overall, sloppy play and turnovers proved costly for Denver, leading to a disappointing defeat against the Kings.