The Denver Nuggets have been a dominant force in the Western Conference this season, boasting a 44-25 record and solidifying their position as one of the top contenders.
Led by MVP candidate Nikola Jokic and a strong supporting cast, the Nuggets have showcased their depth and championship grit.
However, their recent decision to rest key players, including Jokic and Jamal Murray, during a high-profile game against the Golden State Warriors has sparked intrigue and speculation.
In their latest game, the Nuggets managed to secure a 114-105 victory over the Warriors despite the absence of Jokic, Murray, and Christian Braun.
Aaron Gordon stepped up with a stellar 38-point performance, while Michael Porter Jr. contributed a double-double.
The win highlighted Denver's depth and ability to adapt, even without their star players.
Officially, the team cited injuries-Jokic with a right elbow contusion and left ankle impingement, and Murray with left knee inflammation-as the reason for their absence.
However, some analysts and fans have speculated that the decision was strategic, aimed at preserving their stars for a potential playoff clash with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Dec 3, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) controls the ball as Golden State Warriors forward Kevon Looney (5) guards in the second quarter at Ball Arena. © Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images © Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Lou Williams details simple reason for Nuggets resting players
On "Run It Back" at DFTV, former NBA players Danny Green and Lou Williams weighed in on the situation.
"They're seeing the bigger picture," Green said. "They are not preparing for this just one game (Lakers), but that we have these guys fresh when the playoffs happen."
Did the Nuggets sit Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray so they'd be rested when playing the Lakers?
"They're seeing the bigger picture." - @DGreen_14
"We're three weeks out from this playoff run. Everybody is trying to figure out their best route going in to it." - @TeamLou23pic.twitter.com/tnGVQxV4nv
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) March 18, 2025
The statement suggests that the Nuggets are prioritizing long-term success over short-term optics, and it shuts down any wild conspiracies about the team wanting to rest guys because they play the Lakers next.
Additionally, Williams added, "We're three weeks out from this playoff run. Everybody is trying to figure out their best route going into it."
"They are going to look at matchups they might have in the playoffs. They want to see their team's full strength, like Danny said."
Williams' comment seems to contradict what Green initially mentioned.
Even though the message is clear that it is not about conspiracies, the Nuggets might want to see how their team shapes up against the Lakers in full force, as it can be a potential playoff match.
Copyright 2025 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved.
This story was originally published March 18, 2025 at 6:29 PM.