Nuggets' Reserves Shine in Shorthanded Win Over Thunder

With Denver's starters resting, role players like Jonas Valanciunas, Julian Strawther, and David Roddy stepped up in the victory.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:50am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball game, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a vibrant color palette.The Nuggets' reserves seized the opportunity to shine in a shorthanded win over the Thunder, showcasing the team's depth and versatility.Denver Today

The Denver Nuggets defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 127-107 on Friday night, despite resting all five of their starters. With key players like Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon sidelined, several Nuggets reserves seized the opportunity to make an impact, including Jonas Valanciunas, Julian Strawther, and David Roddy.

Why it matters

The Nuggets' depth was on full display as their bench players stepped up in the absence of the team's stars. This game highlighted the importance of having a strong supporting cast, which could prove crucial for Denver as they prepare for the playoffs.

The details

Valanciunas led the way with 23 points, 17 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks, showcasing his dominance in the paint. Strawther caught fire in the second quarter, scoring 10 points in 6 minutes, and finished with 22 points. Roddy, making just his fourth appearance of the season, scored 21 points on 8-12 shooting, including 16 in the fourth quarter to help the Nuggets pull away.

  • The Nuggets rested all five of their starters for Friday's game.
  • Valanciunas has now scored 14+ points in three consecutive games.

The players

Jonas Valanciunas

A 14-year veteran center who was acquired by the Nuggets in the offseason to be their backup to Nikola Jokic.

Julian Strawther

A young guard who had a breakout performance in the playoffs last season and continued his strong play in the Nuggets' win over the Thunder.

David Roddy

A two-way contract player for the Nuggets who made the most of his increased playing time, scoring 21 points in 26 minutes.

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What’s next

The Nuggets will now face the San Antonio Spurs in their season finale, where the starters are likely to return to the lineup.

The takeaway

The Nuggets' depth was on full display in their shorthanded win over the Thunder, with several role players stepping up and making the most of their increased opportunities. This game showcased the team's ability to win without their stars, which could prove valuable as they prepare for the playoffs.