Nuggets Defeat Clippers 126-103 Without Stars

The Denver Nuggets defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 126-103 despite missing star center Nikola Jokic due to illness and Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard, who was attending to family matters related to wildfires. Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 21 points and nine assists, while Norman Powell scored a game-high 30 points for the Clippers. The Nuggets established control early with a 20-3 run, pushing their lead to as much as 27 points during the game. Denver improved to 8-0 in the second games of back-to-backs this season, while the Clippers have struggled, losing four of their last five games. This victory showcased Denver's depth, with contributions from DeAndre Jordan and Julian Strawther, while the Clippers are considering roster upgrades ahead of the trade deadline to bolster their playoff chances. The Clippers, currently seventh in the Western Conference, are exploring potential trades to improve their standing.