Denver Nuggets briefs: Coaches managing unique January schedule

David Zalubowski, The Associated PressSACRAMENTO, Calif.– After a demanding December with 10 road games, the Nuggets’ January schedule appears manageable. Saturday’s game at the Kings followed by Monday’s matchup in Golden State marks Denver’s only multicity road trip this month.

But Denver also has four sets of three games in four nights, including this Northern California trip after Friday’s home win over Utah. Plus, the Nuggets are nearing the midway point of the season.

To combat physical fatigue, coach Michael Malone is “always communicating” with director of sports medicine Steve Short about the best ways to utilize off days and game days. “As much as you want to practice, right now…