Nuggets Defeat Pacers 125-116, Extend Nine-Game Winning Streak Against Indiana

The Indiana Pacers faced a setback with a 125-116 loss to the Denver Nuggets, marking their ninth consecutive defeat to the reigning NBA champions. Despite the loss, the Pacers demonstrated resilience, staying competitive throughout the game, especially considering they were playing on the second night of a back-to-back and missing key player T.J. McConnell. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle highlighted the team's struggles with turnovers and rebounding, which contributed to their defeat against a well-prepared Nuggets squad led by MVP Nikola Jokic, who is in top form. The Pacers now hold a 32-24 record, tying with the Milwaukee Bucks for fourth place in the Eastern Conference. This loss does not diminish the Pacers' standing as a formidable playoff contender, as they have proven capable of competing against top teams. The Nuggets, however, solidified their position as a leading force in the Western Conference with their tenth win in eleven games.