Most of this isn’t Isaiah Thomas’ fault. After nine games of mixed results, Nuggets coach Michael Malone opted to bench his former all-star in lieu of a shorter rotation and more minutes for rising star Monte Morris. Whether it was a direct result of Malone’s decision or not, the Nuggets logged a season-high 40 assists in a resounding victory Tuesday night over Minnesota and Morris responded with one of his most productive games in weeks. Thomas, a two-time all-star, declined to talk to reporters at Thursday’s shootaround prior to the Nuggets-Mavericks game. RELATED: Why Isaiah Thomas’ DNP vs.