Despite having Nikola Jokić and a stellar offense, the Nuggets' porous defense has become a glaring issue as the playoffs approach.

Nuggets coach Michael Malone says he hopes Jamal Murray will be back for the playoffs after the point guard missed him fifth straight game with a hamstring strain.

Jamal Murray missed his fifth consecutive game for the Denver Nuggets on Sunday with a strained right hamstring and coach Michael Malone said “hopefully” his star point guard will be back for the start of the NBA playoffs.

The Indiana Pacers absorbed a triple-double from Nikola Jokic to defeat the host Denver Nuggets 125-120 on Sunday.

Myles Turner scored 24 points, Obi Toppin scored 22 and the Pacers beat the Nuggets despite a 41-point triple-double from Nikola Jokic.

Nikola Jokic tallies 41 points, 15 rebounds and 13 assists in the Nuggets' loss to the Pacers.