With Jokic out, the Nuggets have needed more from Jamal Murray than they’ve gotten. Scoring 16 points in 43 minutes in a loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, Murray followed that with just 13 points in 37 minutes vs.

The Nuggets need Russell Westbrook's passion on the court more often and Michael Malone has room next to Jamal Murray with Nikola Jokic out.

The Denver Nuggets recovered from a shaky start to the season by winning five games in a row behind Nikola Jokic's MVP play. Since Jokic has missed the last two games for personal reasons, the Nuggets were uncompetitive in losses against the Memphis Grizzlies (90-105) and New Orleans Pelicans (94-101).