The Denver Nuggets put an ugly loss behind them with a statement win over a top-tier team.

Nikola had 20 points and 15 rebounds, and the Nuggets withstood a big rally to beat the Los Angeles Clippers 114-104.

This bounce-back performance was just what they needed to soothe their psyche after a clunker the night before against a struggling Cleveland squad.

„The focus was there. The energy was there,“ Jokic said. „It was a big victory for us.“

The Nuggets outrebounded the Clippers. They’re 18-2 when outrebounding a team. … Malone earned win No. 200 with the Nuggets.

DEFENDING JOKIC

Rivers said the 7-foot Jokic presents a difficult challenge given his versatility.

„Post-ups, he’s great. Passing, he’s great. Shooting, he’s great,“ Rivers said. „Not a lot of weaknesses there. Just got to guard him hard.“

IZVOR: ESPN

ESPN