The Denver Nuggets secured a decisive 126-103 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night in Denver, showcasing a well-rounded team performance despite missing Nikola Jokic.
Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 21 points and nine assists, while Russell Westbrook contributed 19 points and eight assists. DeAndre Jordan, starting in place of Jokic, added a season-high 12 points and tied his season-best with nine rebounds. Denver improved to 21-15 on the season.
The Clippers, playing without Kawhi Leonard, who returned to Los Angeles due to family matters, struggled to keep pace. Norman Powell led Los Angeles with 30 points, while James Harden chipped in 16. The Clippers fell to 20-17 with the loss.
Denver seized control early, breaking open the game with a 20-3 run in the first quarter. They extended their lead to 55-30 late in the second quarter before the Clippers trimmed it to 16 at halftime. A third-quarter surge by the Nuggets put the game out of reach as they used their depth to overwhelm the visitors.
Dario Saric contributed seven points and seven rebounds for Denver, while Michael Porter Jr. added 19 points and eight boards. The Nuggets shot 55.1% from the field and an impressive 48.6% from three-point range, capitalizing on Los Angeles’ defensive lapses.
The Clippers, despite Powell’s efforts, struggled from the field, shooting just 37.5%. They also faced challenges at the free-throw line, missing 8 of 40 attempts, including 3 from Powell in the third quarter. Los Angeles’ bench offered little support, with only Kevin Porter Jr. reaching double figures, scoring 10 points.
Denver’s bench, on the other hand, was a key factor in the win. Julian Strawther scored 16 points, hitting four three-pointers, and Peyton Watson added nine points and four rebounds. The Nuggets’ reserves combined for 40 points, further emphasizing their depth.
Denver’s victory marked their second in three games without Jokic this season. The three-time MVP missed his second consecutive game due to illness but could return soon.
