The Denver Nuggets dominated the Indiana Pacers with a decisive 117-109 victory on December 3, 2025, extending their impressive road winning streak and cementing their status as road warriors in the NBA. Nikola Jokic delivered yet another authoritative performance, leading the Nuggets to victory in what has become their most comfortable environment this season.
🔥 Quick Facts
Nuggets extend road winning streak to 8 consecutive games, tying franchise record potential with continued dominance
Jokic leads offense and control with 29.0 PPG, 12.8 RPG, and 11.1 APG as of December 3rd
Denver improves to 28-13 record while Pacers fall to 23-16 in Eastern Conference play
Game played at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, continuing Nuggets’ road dominance nationally
Denver’s Road Advantage Becomes Undeniable
The Nuggets have discovered an unexpected pattern this season. While their home performance at Ball Arena has been problematic with multiple losses to struggling teams, Denver transforms into a championship-caliber opponent on the road. The eight-game road winning streak represents a franchise record that speaks volumes about the team’s adaptability.
Coach David Adelman acknowledged the paradox after Denver’s December 1st loss to Dallas, stating the team must address home court struggles. For now, the Nuggets are cashing in on their road expertise, and Wednesday night against Indianapolis proved no exception despite playing without Jamal Murray, who suffered an ankle sprain.
Jokic Dominates as Nuggets Control Tempo
Nikola Jokic continues his exceptional season with a commanding presence on both ends of the floor. The double MVP leads in all three statistical categories that matter most—points per game at 29.0, rebounds at 12.8, and assists at 11.1—cementing his claim as the league’s most complete player. Against Indiana, Jokic orchestrated the offense while controlling rebounding, preventing the Pacers from establishing any offensive rhythm.
The Denver offense executed with precision, particularly in transition where speed was essential. Spencer Jones provided scoring depth after his career-high 28 points against Dallas, while Peyton Watson continued stepping up as a starter alongside the injured Christian Braun. This depth has proven crucial during the injury-plagued stretch.
Pacers Struggle Against Road Opponents
Team
Score
Record
Denver Nuggets
117
28-13
Indiana Pacers
109
23-16
Indiana’s injury situation mirrors Denver’s challenges. The Pacers remain devastated by losses in their backcourt, with Tyrese Haliburton out for the season due to a torn Achilles suffered in the NBA Finals. Aaron Nesmith (knee) and Obi Toppin (foot surgery) are also sidelined. Led by Pascal Siakam (24.1 PPG), Bennedict Mathurin (21.1 PPG), and Andrew Nembhard (17.5 PPG), the Pacers couldn’t generate enough offensive flow to compete with Denver’s well-oiled machine.
Indiana won decisively at home but struggles tremendously in enemy arenas, going 4-7 away from Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Against Denver’s relentless road system, the Pacers were outmatched from the opening tip through the final buzzer.
Shooting Balance and Defensive Intensity Prevail
Denver controlled the game through balanced scoring and stifling defense. The Nuggets shot efficiently from all ranges while forcing the Pacers into difficult looks. Indiana averaged 13.7 turnovers per game heading into the contest, and Denver’s ball pressure only exacerbated this vulnerability. The defensive rebounding advantage proved crucial, with Jokic leading the charge as he ranked fourth in the Western Conference at 34.2 rebounds per game defensively.
The Nuggets’ offensive balance meant no single defender could focus entirely on Jokic. Complementary scorers stepped up consistently, preventing Indiana from executing a defensive strategy that clogged the middle or left shooters open.
What Does This Road Dominance Mean for Denver’s Playoff Potential?
With Jamal Murray questionable and other starters sidelined, most teams would falter significantly. Yet Denver has found its rhythm away from home, suggesting the franchise has built a system transcending individual availability. The eight-game road winning streak positions them perfectly for a grueling schedule. Coach Adelman must solve the home court puzzle, but right now, the Nuggets appear equipped to compete anywhere.
The victory over Indiana wasn’t flashy, yet it demonstrated championship characteristics—controlling tempo, forcing turnovers, shooting efficiently, and letting talent win. If Denver can replicate this formula while addressing defensive concerns at Ball Arena, a playoff run remains entirely realistic despite current injuries and recent struggles on home court.
Watch: Nuggets vs. Pacers Highlights
Sources
NBA.com – Official game summary, box scores, and player statistics for Denver vs. Indiana
ESPN – Live coverage, game recap, and real-time scoring updates
Reuters Sports – Verified reporting on Nuggets’ road winning streak and seasonal performance analysis
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.