Nuggets Beat Raptors 128-109 Behind Jokic
Nikola Jokic posted a 32-point triple-double as Denver topped Toronto without DeMar DeRozan, who was ruled out before tip-off.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Basketball
The Denver Nuggets defeated the Toronto Raptors 128-109, earning their third win in four games. Nikola Jokic recorded a 32-point triple-double, while Bryce Hopkins stepped into the starting lineup after DeMar DeRozan was ruled out minutes before tip-off.
Why it matters
The win keeps Denver's recent form strong and shows the depth of its rotation when a starter is unexpectedly unavailable. For Denver fans, it offers an early look at how the roster handles changes to its lineup.
The box score shows Jokic's 32-point triple-double and Hopkins' 18 points on 6-of-7 shooting in 28 minutes, with Trevon Brazile adding seven rebounds in 23 minutes. The stub does not indicate how long DeRozan will be out or whether the rotation will stay the same.
The players
Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic is a Serbian center for the Denver Nuggets who has been a multiple-time All-Star and MVP winner.
DeMar DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan is a veteran shooting guard and forward who has played for several NBA franchises and is known for his mid-range scoring.
Bryce Hopkins
Bryce Hopkins is a Nuggets forward who stepped into the starting lineup in this game after DeRozan's absence.
The details
DeMar DeRozan was ruled out minutes before tip-off, and the Nuggets turned to Bryce Hopkins, who scored 18 points, grabbed four rebounds and recorded two steals. Denver used a nine-man rotation, with Tyus Jones adding eight assists and Marvin Bagley III scoring 10 points off the bench.
Timeline
Wednesday, November 4, 2026: Nuggets defeat Raptors 128-109 in Denver.
Season Trajectory
Denver's third win in four games keeps it in the upper tier of the early Western Conference standings and reinforces Jokic's role as the team's central source of production. The result extends a recent run of wins that shapes how the Nuggets are viewed through the early part of the season.
Fantasy managers should note that Hopkins' 18-point, 6-of-7 shooting game and Jones' eight assists are the most relevant contributions from the bench. DeRozan's status is a key factor for lineup decisions in the next game.
The takeaway
Depth matters when a starter is unexpectedly out, and Denver's bench production in this game gave it a clear path to a double-digit win. Watch the lineup in the next outing to see whether Hopkins keeps his spot.
Further reading
For more on the team's recent games, see the Denver Basketball coverage.
