Jamal Murray’s 32 points and Nikola Jokic’s double-double of 29 points and 11 rebounds propelled the Denver Nuggets (20-10) to a hard-fought 122-117 victory over the Brooklyn Nets (13-15) on Friday night.
The defending champion Nuggets showcased a balanced attack with Aaron Gordon contributing 18 points, and Michael Porter Jr. adding 15, solidifying their 20-10 record.
Despite a valiant effort from the Nets, led by Cam Thomas with 23 points and contributions from Cam Johnson, Dorian Finney-Smith, Mikal Bridges, and others, Brooklyn’s five-game losing streak dropped them to 13-15.
With 19.4 seconds left, Thomas’ impressive four-point play narrowed the gap to one, but a strategic timeout and clutch free throws from Murray secured the Nuggets’ win.
The absence of key players Ben Simmons (left lower back nerve impingement) and Lonnie Walker IV (strained left hamstring) due to injuries further challenged the Nets in their pursuit of a comeback.
