Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets improved to 28-13 on the NBA season with their most recent win over the Indiana Pacers. The reigning NBA champions prevailed 117-109 as four Denver starters scored 20 or more points in the ultimate team effort.

Despite Tyrese Halburton’s hamstring injury, the Pacers had entered the contest on a three-game win streak. During that stretch, Indiana averaged nearly 124 points per game while missing Haliburton for all but two quarters. This season, the Pacers have led the league in points per game (126.1) and offensive rating (122.0).

After Denver’s win, Jokic talked to DNVR Sports about the team’s defensive energy and execution.

“I think the fourth quarter was really good,” Jokic said. “They had a lot of offensive rebounds and a lot of points in transition off of turnovers, but I think our halfcourt defense was good…”

NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets Updates

Jokic put together a remarkable performance on offense with 25 points on 12/13 shooting from the field. The Joker also collected more boards than anyone from either team, with 12 total rebounds, and he dished out nine assists as well.

The Nuggets starters shot a collective 70% from the field, hitting 42 of their 60 shots. As a team, Denver shot 64.8% from the field and 50.0% from three. Michael Porter Jr. hit a team-high seven threes on his way to 25 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Jamal Murray also notched 25 points as he sank 11 of his 18 shot attempts.

Defensive anchor Aaron Gordon also had quite a night with 20 points, 10 boards, and three assists. The walking dunk package led the team with a +17 plus-minus.

NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets Updates

This season, the Nuggets have boasted a top-10 defense in the league while committing the eighth fewest personal fouls per game. Last season, Denver ranked No. 15 in defensive rating.

Jokic and the Nuggets will look to continue their excellent balance of offense and defense as they move further along in the new year.