Nuggets’ bench is finally doing more than surviving without Nikola Jokic

The Denver Nuggets defeated the Indiana Pacers 114-102 in Mexico City, driven by strong second-quarter bench play without Nikola Jokic. With Jokic resting, Denver outscored Indiana 24-13 to extend their lead from eight to 19 points. Writer David Decker highlights that the Nuggets' reserve unit is effectively shouldering the scoring burden, keeping the team competitive during non-Jokic minutes early in the season.

Denver's bench contributed 42 points, surpassing Jokic and Jamal Murray's combined total of 35. Spencer Jones recorded 13 points and six rebounds in his season debut, DeMar DeRozan added 11 points and five assists, and Marvin Bagley III scored 10. Through eight games, Denver has posted a 119.1 offensive rating with Jokic off the floor, compared to 117.1 with him playing.