In a game marred by ejections and injuries, the Denver Nuggets (16-9) leaned on Reggie Jackson’s stellar performance to secure a hard-fought 114-106 win against the Chicago Bulls (9-16).
Despite losing Nikola Jokic to an ejection in the second quarter and missing key players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Jamal Murray, the Nuggets showcased their resilience.
Jackson stole the spotlight with a 25-point performance, including five crucial 3-pointers, leading the Nuggets to their second consecutive win.
Michael Porter Jr. added 17 points, while Aaron Gordon contributed 14 points, seven rebounds, and six assists in a collective effort to compensate for the absent stars.
Jokic’s ejection came after expressing frustration with an official, receiving a technical foul and subsequent expulsion from the game.
Chicago’s Coby White led the Bulls with 27 points, maintaining his impressive form, while Nikola Vucevic contributed 26 points and 16 rebounds.
Julian Strawther’s clutch 3-pointer and free throws helped Denver maintain control in the face of Chicago’s attempts to narrow the gap.
The Bulls played without Zach LaVine and rested Alex Caruso, but coach Billy Donovan hinted at Caruso’s potential return.
Denver faced the challenge without Jamal Murray, who was sidelined due to a sore right ankle and a left ankle roll suffered in the previous game.
