Suns vs Nuggets: Jokic Dominates with 32 Points as Booker Struggles in Denver’s 117-90 Victory | NBA Highlights

The Denver Nuggets dominated the Phoenix Suns in a decisive 117-90 victory, with Nikola Jokic showcasing MVP form with 32 points and 7 assists.

Devin Booker struggled offensively, shooting just 38% from the field, as Phoenix failed to contain Denver’s relentless attack. The Nuggets’ commanding rebound advantage (58-38) and efficient ball movement proved too much for the Suns’ defense.

This lopsided result raises questions about Phoenix’s championship aspirations while solidifying Denver’s status as Western Conference contenders.

Suns vs Nuggets: Jokic’s Dominance and Booker’s Struggles in Denver’s Blowout Win

The Denver Nuggets delivered a commanding 117-90 victory over the Phoenix Suns in their October 25 matchup, showcasing Nikola Jokic’s MVP-caliber performance. The Serbian center dominated with 32 points on efficient 68% shooting, along with 7 assists and 10 rebounds. Jokic’s ability to dismantle Phoenix’s defense in the high post proved decisive, as Denver outscored the Suns by 28 points during his 31 minutes on court.

Phoenix’s struggles were compounded by Devin Booker’s shooting slump. The All-Star guard managed 22 points but required 21 shots to get there, including a dismal 2-of-7 from three-point range. Denver’s defensive strategy of trapping Booker in pick-and-roll situations forced him into difficult, contested jump shots throughout the game.

The Nuggets exposed Phoenix’s lack of secondary playmakers tonight. When Booker’s jumper isn’t falling, their offense becomes painfully one-dimensional.

Key Factors in Denver’s Victory

• 58-38 rebound advantage favoring Denver
• 24 points off 18 Phoenix turnovers
• 52% team shooting vs Phoenix’s 41%

Breaking Down Jokic’s Masterclass Against Phoenix

Nikola Jokic’s performance against Phoenix reinforced why many consider him the best player in basketball today. The two-time MVP scored from all areas of the court:

His signature move came in the third quarter when he executed a perfect give-and-go with Aaron Gordon, finishing with a left-handed hook over Jusuf Nurkic. This play epitomized Denver’s offensive fluidity and Jokic’s basketball IQ.

What makes Jokic special isn’t just the stats – it’s how he makes everyone around him better. Watch how he positions himself to create passing lanes before he even receives the ball.

Jokic’s Impact Beyond the Box Score

• Generated 12 “hockey assists” (passes leading to assists)
• Forced Phoenix into 3 defensive scheme changes
• Drew 5 fouls on Suns’ big men

Analyzing Devin Booker’s Shooting Struggles

Booker’s 38% shooting night continued a concerning trend for the Suns’ star. Over his last five games, he’s shooting just 31% from three-point range. The Nuggets exploited this by going under screens and daring him to shoot contested jumpers.

Film analysis shows 73% of Booker’s attempts came from outside the restricted area, compared to his season average of 58%. This suggests Denver successfully kept him from driving into the paint where he’s most dangerous.

Booker needs to rediscover his mid-range game. When his three isn’t falling, he’s abandoning his most efficient scoring areas.

Booker’s Shot Chart Breakdown

• 2/7 on three-pointers (28.6%)
• 4/10 on mid-range jumpers (40%)
• 3/4 at the rim (75%)

Denver’s Defensive Adjustments That Stifled Phoenix

Despite missing Jamal Murray (rest), Denver’s defense held Phoenix to 90 points – their lowest output of the season. The Nuggets implemented several key adjustments:

First, they aggressively trapped Booker in pick-and-roll situations, forcing the ball to secondary playmakers. Second, they prioritized protecting the paint, conceding open three-point looks to non-shooters like Josh Okogie (0-3 from deep).

Michael Malone outcoached Frank Vogel tonight. Denver’s defensive gameplan took away Phoenix’s strengths and forced them into uncomfortable shots all night.

Defensive Stats That Mattered

• Held Suns to 12 fast break points
• Generated 9 steals
• Contested 68% of Phoenix’s shots

What This Game Means for Both Teams Going Forward

For Denver, this victory reinforces their status as Western Conference favorites. Their ability to dominate even without Murray suggests scary potential when fully healthy.

Phoenix faces tougher questions. Their lack of depth was exposed, particularly when Booker struggled. The Suns must decide whether to make roster moves or trust their stars to figure it out.

The Suns shouldn’t panic after one bad loss, but they can’t ignore their offensive stagnation when Booker has an off night.

Upcoming Schedule for Both Teams