The Denver Nuggets defeated the Miami Heat, 120-111, at FTX Arena on Monday night.

Each team came into the contest with a significant injury question mark, as Nikola Jokic and Jimmy Butler were carrying questionable tags due to wrist and tailbone injuries, respectively. Ultimately, Jokic was able to return from a four-game absence, while Butler sat out the game The talent advantage was evident during the first half when the Nuggets (10-10) racked up 63 first-half points to Heat's (13-8) 43. Miami was able to play better offense in the second half while totaling 68 points, but their 11-0 run over the last 1:40 made the game look deceptively closer than what it was.

Jokic led the way for the Nuggets with a 24-point, 15-rebound double-double that included seven assists and one steal. Aaron Gordon followed with 20 points, five assists and four rebounds. Bones Hyland poured in 19 points, while Will Barton contributed 14 points, five rebounds and four assists. Jeff Green supplied 12 points and three rebounds. Monte Morris registered 11 points, six assists and four rebounds.

Bam Adebayo paced the Heat with a 24-point, 13-rebound double-double that included six assists. Max Strus turned in 19 points, three assists and two rebounds. Caleb Martin furnished 18 points, four rebounds and one assist. Kyle Lowry contributed 17 points, 14 assists and two rebounds. Gabe Vincent netted 14 points.

The Nuggets remain on the road and visit the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night, while the Heat remain home to host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night.