Denver Nuggets 118, Chicago Bulls 112: Three takeaways

The Nuggets were down six players but refused to use it as an excuse as they edged a hungry, young Bulls team in a 118-112 win.

Paul Millsap, JaMychal Green, Facundo Campazzo, Gary Harris, R.J. Hampton and Markus Howard were all ruled out of the contest prior to Monday's game. Thankfully, the Nuggets' starters largely responded with another strong night.

Nikola Joki\u0107, once again, was brilliant as he led the way for Denver with 39 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists to just one turnover. The center shot a sizzling 60.7 percent in the process. Chicago was led by Zach LaVine, who had 23 points, nine boards, and five assists.

The Nuggets were largely solid on defense on the night, holding…