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Nuggets Win Preseason Debut with Double-Big Lineup

10/15/2025

25 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Denver Nuggets debuted a double-big lineup of Nikola Jokic and Jonas Valanciunas in a 102-94 preseason win over the Clippers.
Coach David Adelman cited limited practice time as the lineup's initial challenge.
Valanciunas posted 10 points and nine rebounds.
Jokic posted 12 points, nine rebounds, and six assists.
Adelman plans to refine the pairing and explore defensive strategies.

History

Historical Context

The NBA merged with the ABA in 1976, adding teams like the Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, New York Nets, and San Antonio Spurs. This merger expanded the league to 22 franchises and introduced new strategies, including the three-point line in 1979. The recent adoption of a double-big lineup by the Nuggets highlights ongoing strategic evolution in basketball, emphasizing versatility and size.

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Story summary

The Denver Nuggets debuted a double-big lineup of Nikola Jokic and Jonas Valanciunas in a 102-94 preseason win over the Clippers.
Coach David Adelman cited limited practice time as the lineup's initial challenge.
Valanciunas posted 10 points and nine rebounds.
Jokic posted 12 points, nine rebounds, and six assists.
Adelman plans to refine the pairing and explore defensive strategies.

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