It was a brushstroke of brilliance on a painting crafted hundreds of times before. Nikola Jokic pump-faked from the top of the key, coaxing Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma’s right foot a step too high. Two dribbles came to get past Kuzma, and a left-to-right spin to shed him, setting up the threat of a hook.

Will Denver's two best players suit up against Utah in a battle between two teams headed in opposite directions?

In their last game, the Nuggets secured a 127-117 victory against the Milwaukee Bucks at Ball Arena. This win was particularly notable as it marked the return of star center Nikola Jokic, who had missed five games due to a left ankle impingement and a sore right elbow.