The Washington Wizards defeated the Denver Nuggets 126-123 on March 16, 2025, achieving their second season sweep against the Nuggets and showcasing their surprising ability to compete even from the bottom of the standings.
Despite the Nuggets entering the game with the league's reigning MVP, Nikola Jokic, who nearly recorded another triple-double with 40 points, 13 rebounds, and 9 assists, the Wizards stole the spotlight with bold performances, especially during the final stretch of the game.
The match featured dramatic swings, with the Nuggets taking leads and appearing poised to secure victory when Jokic re-entered after resting. Yet, it was Jordan Poole who cemented the Wizards' victory, hitting four three-pointers and scoring 14 points down the stretch, including the game-winner from 35 feet with just three seconds left on the clock.
Kyshawn George also shone bright for Washington, contributing 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, showcasing his skills along with Justin Champagnie, who finished with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Alex Sarr played exceptionally well, scoring 34 points, which not only secured his place as the youngest center to achieve 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists but also highlighted the Wizards' commitment to developing young talent.
Head coach Michael Malone expressed frustration with his team after the loss, reminding his players of the need for consistency. "If you are going to be great, you have to be great for 48 minutes," he implored. This loss marks the Nuggets' second defeat to the Wizards this season, raising questions about their ability to maintain focus and deliver under pressure.
Interestingly, the Wizards, with this win, improved their record to 15-51. They are inching above the Utah Jazz, who sit at 15-52. The upcoming matchup between the two teams on March 19 could carry significant lottery ramifications, as both are vying for the best chances at the top pick during the upcoming NBA draft. The NBA's odds system means the difference between the worst and second-worst records may significantly affect their draft positions.
This match highlighted some key metrics applicable to the outcome of the game. The Wizards outperformed the Nuggets with an effective field goal percentage of 58.4%, compared to the Nuggets' 56.8%. Notably, Washington managed to secure 28.9% of offensive rebounds, indicating effective board work, whereas the Nuggets only managed 24.4%. Both teams had the same turnover percentage of 16%, with their free-throw attempts and makes being equal at 15.8% versus field goal attempts. The overall pace of the game leaned slightly toward the Wizards at 106 compared to the Nuggets' 99.
Nikola Jokic, reflecting on the larger picture following the game, pointed out the importance of maintaining urgency and proved insightful, saying, "We can't afford to be in comfort just because we're going to the playoffs. We're lucky to be where we are; we're not good. I hope we find a way."
This statement emphasizes his awareness of the current challenges facing the team, particularly the need for consistent performance as the playoffs approach.
Looking toward their next games, both teams now focus on the playoffs and the upcoming lottery. The Wizards, though buried deep statistically, are showing flashes of potential, especially with young players like Sarr learning and growing under pressure. Meanwhile, the Nuggets face scrutiny over their overarching strategy as they strive to refine their game and avoid complacency.
Both franchises will need to address their shortcomings as the regular season winds down. For the Wizards, each win carries potential consequences—but for the Nuggets, this surprising setback serves as both worry and opportunity.