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Playing stars this many minutes will lead to familiar disaster for Nuggets

David Adelman rode Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray heavy in Denver's home opener win, but history shows this minutes strategy isn't sustainable.

By Ben Handler · Nugg Love

Published: Sunday, 25 October 2026 at 4:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Writer Ben Handler argues that excessive minutes for Denver's starters will lead to playoff exhaustion.
The Denver Nuggets defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 141-135 in an overtime home opener.
Nikola Jokic recorded a 35-point triple-double and Jamal Murray scored 42 points.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Denver Nuggets overcame a 20-point deficit to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans 141-135 in overtime during their home opener. Nikola Jokic posted a 35-point triple-double, while Jamal Murray scored 42 points in the comeback victory.

Writer Ben Handler argues that head coach David Adelman is overworking his starters too early in the regular season. Handler warns that playing Jokic, Murray, and Christian Braun for 40 or more minutes risks player exhaustion and another potential early playoff exit.

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Playing stars this many minutes will lead to familiar disaster for Nuggets

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