The Denver Nuggets defeated the host Indiana Pacers, 125 - 117, at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Friday. It's rare to see Indiana struggle so badly at home, but that was just the case here. In fact, Denver pulled out a wire - to - wire win, as they held a double - digit lead for over half of this game. Free-throw shooting was a glaring difference, with Denver going 40 - of - 43 from the free - throw line, while Indiana went just 8 - of - 11. Rebounding was crucial for the Nuggets as well, with Denver winning that battle, 46 - 39. The Nuggets (35 - 37) are holding on to the eight - seed in the west by a fingernail, as this was a crucial road win for that pursuit. Nikola Jokic led the way for Denver. as he tallied 30 points, 17 rebounds and five assists on 12 - of - 18 from the field. Wilson Chandler finished second on the team, totaling 24 points, four rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Danilo Gallinari made his return from a knee injury to amass 21 points and 11 rebounds. On deck for the Nuggets is a home matchup versus the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday. The Pacers (36 - 36) had traded off wins and losses in their previous 15 games, but this defeat snapped that streak. Paul George led Indiana, as he accumulated 27 points, nine rebounds, three assists and three steals. Myles Turner collected 20 points, four rebounds, two steals and four blocks. Jeff Teague accrued 21 points, two rebounds, eight assists and two steals. Monta Ellis led the bench with 17 points. Indiana will look to bounce back on Sunday in a home matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers.
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