Jokic Leads Nuggets Against Warriors Following Disappointing Loss

The Denver Nuggets suffered a surprising 126-123 defeat to the Washington Wizards, despite Nikola Jokic's impressive 40-point performance. The loss highlighted ongoing defensive issues for the Nuggets, who are currently ranked 22nd in defensive rating and have struggled to maintain consistency throughout the season. Jokic expressed skepticism about the team's ability to improve defensively, emphasizing that their regular-season performance is indicative of their playoff potential. Coach Michael Malone echoed these concerns, stressing the need for four quarters of dedicated defense to succeed in the playoffs. This defeat also marked a season sweep for the Wizards over the Nuggets, further complicating Denver's standings as they prepare for future matchups, including an upcoming game against the Golden State Warriors. The Nuggets must address their defensive shortcomings quickly to regain momentum in the tight Western Conference race.