The Denver Nuggets are getting a much-needed boost ahead of their clash with the red-hot Detroit Pistons. Jamal Murray and Peyton Watson are both listed as probable and expected to return to the lineup after missing the Nuggets’ last game against Milwaukee.
Their status was up in the air for the postponed matchup with Memphis, but now, the timing couldn’t be better. The one major piece still missing?
Nikola Jokic remains sidelined.
At 31-15, Denver is riding a two-game win streak and holding steady in third place out West. But they’re about to run into a Pistons team that’s playing some of the best basketball in the league.
Detroit enters at 33-11, leading the East, and playing with the kind of confidence that shows up early and often. This one has all the makings of a statement game on both sides.
Murray’s return changes the entire feel of Denver’s offense. He’s averaging 26.0 points per game while shooting a blistering 49.0% from the field and 44.8% from deep.
That kind of efficiency doesn’t just put points on the board-it opens up the floor for everyone else. His rhythm sets the tone, his pace brings structure, and his presence instantly upgrades the Nuggets’ ability to control the tempo.
Then there’s Peyton Watson, who’s quietly become a key two-way contributor. He’s putting up 14.5 points per game and brings an edge that shows up in the hustle plays-on both ends of the floor.
His energy is contagious, and when he’s active, the Nuggets play faster, more connected basketball. With Jokic out, Denver isn’t going to win by brute force.
They’ll need to move the ball, trust each other, and lean into the kind of fluid, team-first basketball that’s defined their best stretches.
This isn’t about trying to replace Jokic-because you can’t replace an MVP. It’s about weathering the storm and proving that the foundation is strong enough to hold without its centerpiece. That means more ball movement, more effort on defense, and a belief that guys like Murray and Watson can lead the charge.
But make no mistake: Detroit’s not easing into this one. They’re healthy, confident, and playing with a purpose.
Their record speaks to discipline, but their style speaks to swagger. They’re fast, they’re fearless, and they’re not afraid of the moment.
The Pistons are looking to prove they’re not just a hot team-they’re a serious contender.
For the Nuggets, this game is about more than just standings. It’s a chance to show depth, chemistry, and resilience. Winning without Jokic would be a loud message to the rest of the league that this team isn’t just about one superstar-they’re built to compete, no matter who’s in uniform.
Expect urgency from the opening tip. Murray’s got something to prove-he’s ready to remind the league exactly who he is.
Watson’s looking to solidify his place in the rotation, and the rest of the roster knows the spotlight is on. Jokic may be watching from the bench, but the fight will be on the floor.
In the grand scheme of the season, it’s just one game. But nights like this?
They shape identity. They reveal character.
The question now: Can the Nuggets rise without their anchor, or will the Pistons continue to own the moment?