Sabonis’ 16th triple-double helps Kings rout Nuggets 135-106

In his 16th triple-double of the season, Domantas Sabonis contributed 17 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists, leading the Sacramento Kings to a decisive 135-106 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Friday night. Malik Monk added 23 points coming off the bench. This performance solidified Sabonis as the NBA’s current leader in triple-doubles, breaking a tie with Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic.

Despite Jokic’s efforts with 23 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, the Nuggets couldn’t overcome the Kings. Jokic, who played 30 minutes, briefly left the court in the first quarter due to a back injury but returned with a back brace in the second quarter.

The Kings took control in the second and third quarters, outscoring Denver 74-51. The turning point coincided with Jokic’s return to the court in the second quarter, as the Kings went on a 17-8 run to close the half with a lead of 67-57.

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Despite Denver’s attempt to rally in the second half, the Kings maintained their advantage, securing a 29-point victory. This marked Sabonis’ 48th career triple-double, surpassing his previous single-season high of 14. De’Aaron Fox contributed 15 points and 10 assists, while Keegan Murray, Trey Lyles, and Kevin Huerter also made significant contributions for the Kings.

On the Nuggets’ side, Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, Jamal Murray, and Justin Holiday scored in double digits, but the absence of Michael Porter Jr., who was given the night off due to a sore right knee, proved to be a factor in their defeat. The Kings’ victory snapped a two-game losing streak, showcasing their offensive prowess with a 58.6 percent shooting accuracy.