The Denver Nuggets will compete against the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night, marking the third game of a four-game road trip.
For the third consecutive game, the Nuggets will be missing their superstar centre, Nikola Jokic. The three-time MVP is incapacitated due to a left ankle discomfort, significantly weakening Denver’s lineup once more.
In the previous two games, co-star Jamal Murray has been absent with Jokic; nevertheless, the distinguished point guard is set to return to play in Portland on Friday night.
With Jokic sidelined and Murray returning, the Nuggets must alter their starting lineup once more. On Friday, Denver will commence with a starting lineup of Murray, Russell Westbrook, Christian Braun, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon.
Friday night will signify the sixth consecutive game in which the Nuggets will deploy a different starting lineup. This marks the inaugural occasion on which these five have commenced a game together for the Nuggets, presenting an intriguing ensemble.
In six games without Jokic this season, Murray averages 19.7 points, 6.5 assists, and 4.5 rebounds, shooting 47.5% from the field, 42.5% from three-point range, and 91.7% from the free-throw line.
The Nuggets have suffered defeats in four of their last seven games, urgently seeking stability as the regular season concludes. They will compete against the Trail Blazers at 10:00 p.m. EST on Friday night in Portland.
