By james art 
The Denver Nuggets return to action on Saturday after their loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday. Facing the undefeated Utah Jazz, the Nuggets have a great opportunity to get back in the win column.
Nuggets star Jamaal Murray entered the concussion protocol in the second half of Friday night’s game and was ruled out against Utah. There are some other big names on the injury report, including All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen.
Originally listed as questionable to play in that game with lower back spasms, Markkanen has since been ruled out. The 7-foot forward has appeared in four games this season, averaging 18.0 points and 7.3 rebounds.
Lauri Markkanen was demoted to out tonight against the Denver Nuggets
— Tony Jones (@Tjonesonthenba) November 2, 2024
Shooting just 38.5 percent from the field, Markkanen has struggled with that aspect of his game. The 2023 All-Star Game was one of the biggest names in trade rumors this offseason, with the Golden State Warriors pouncing on him. Instead of signing an extension to stay in Utah, Markkanen plans to stay long-term with the Jazz.
The Nuggets are just 2-3 through their first five games, but have a great opportunity Saturday against an 0-5 Jazz team that is missing its best player. Even though Murray is also out, this is certainly a game the Nuggets should win.
Denver and Utah will kick off at 7:00 p.m. PT at the Ball Arena on Saturday night.
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