The Denver Nuggets leaned on Nikola Jokic, particularly in the fourth quarter, to hold on for a 127-117 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday. Jokic had eight points and three assists in the last six minutes to prevent the Bucks from pulling off an upset. The reigning MVP finished the game with 39 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists.
Christian Braun contributed 19 points, 10 rebounds, six assists and two steals. Michael Porter Jr. stepped up to deliver 23 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and three steals. Despite the impressive numbers from across the roster, the Nuggets needed Jokic's heroics against their hobbled opponents.
Without Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez led a balanced attack that caused the Nuggets troubles. Lopez tallied 26 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Milwaukee's bench gave the starters a boost behind 38 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists combined from Ryan Rollins, AJ Green and Pat Connaughton.

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Milwaukee Bucks vs Denver Nuggets player stats and box score
Milwaukee Bucks player stats and box score
Denver Nuggets player stats and box score
Milwaukee Bucks vs Denver Nuggets Game Summary
The road-weary Milwaukee Bucks took on the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday in Mile High City. Milwaukee, 2-2 in its current five-game road trip, hoped to finish the stretch with a win. The Bucks headed into the game without Giannis Antetokounmpo (foot) and Damian Lillard (calf).
With Nikola Jokic back from a multi-game absence, the Nuggets got off to a fast start. Denver's 7-for-11 shooting from deep in the first quarter pushed them to a 38-27 advantage.
The second quarter was a seesaw battle in the first six minutes before the Bucks surged to end the period. Milwaukee shot 6-for-12 behind the arc to trail by 67-64 at halftime. Brook Lopez led the visitors with 20 points and four rebounds in the first half.
The injury-hampered Bucks continued to stay within striking distance behind a balanced attack. Milwaukee's bench gave the starters a lift with shooting, hustle and defense. Denver won the quarter 33-28 to take a 100-92 lead entering the last 12 minutes.
After putting up 12 points and three assists in the third quarter, Nikola Jokic did not play until midway through the fourth period. The Nuggets big man delivered eight points and three assists in the last six minutes to drag his team to a 127-117 win.
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