Nuggets’ role players on roll ahead of matchup with Wizards

When Nikola Jokic hopped off the court in Miami on Dec. 29, the Nuggets' season appeared to be in jeopardy. Denver struggled in the past without the three-time MVP in the lineup, and he was headed for an extended absence.

Nearly three weeks and nine games later, the Nuggets have solidified their place in the Western Conference standings. Denver is 6-3 without Jokic -- and three other rotation players -- and at the halfway mark of the season is tied for second in the conference heading into...