DaRon Holmes II acknowledged running out of gas after playing 22 minutes in Denver’s win over Toronto on Wednesday, marking the first time he had a real opportunity to contribute in a meaningful game environment, according to Bennett Durando of The Denver Post.
For the second-year big man, it was a remarkable step forward after a long road back to full health.
Despite the fatigue, head coach David Adelman was pleased with the way Holmes handled himself, especially in moments that could have upset a young player.
Adelman pointed out that Holmes continued to compete even when things weren’t going perfectly, noting that he stayed involved rather than becoming discouraged.
“He’s giving up offensive rebounds. I didn’t see him put his head down. He just kept playing,” the coach said. “And that’s the key in the NBA. There’s going to be times when you’re going to be embarrassed about someone physically possessing you, whatever it is.
“You just have to move on to the next play. Be ready to make the next shot, make the right decision with the ball, take care of it. And he did that.”
Holmes, who was selected in the first round of the 2024 draft, was sidelined last season while recovering from a torn Achilles tendon.
The Nuggets got some good news on injuries: https://t.co/QaE44jWDFw
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) January 3, 2026
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