DENVER — 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.

The Denver Nuggets picked up a 127-117 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday, and Nikola Jokic led the way with 39 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in his return from injury, and head coach Michael Malone spoke on what he saw from his star player in his return to the court.

Nuggets All-Star Nikola Jokić has missed four straight games, but coach Michael Malone says the center will play in Denver sometime after Monday.