The Denver Nuggets overcame a nine-point deficit in the final quarter to defeat the Sacramento Kings 116-110 on Wednesday night.
Nikola Jokic recorded 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Russell Westbrook provided a spark with 25 points as Denver improved to 40-22.
Jamal Murray added 24 points and made a crucial impact at the free-throw line, converting 14 of 15 attempts.
The Kings (32-29) built a 93-84 lead entering the fourth behind DeMar DeRozan, who scored 18 of his 35 points in the third quarter.
Westbrook turned the momentum in Denver’s favor with seven straight points early in the final period.
Zeke Nnaji’s three-pointer gave the Nuggets their first lead since the opening quarter, putting them ahead 96-95.
Sacramento responded behind Zach LaVine, who scored 12 of his 20 points in the fourth, including two deep three-pointers to keep the Kings within striking distance.
Westbrook answered with a clutch three-pointer, while Jokic and Murray sealed the win from the free-throw line.
Denver capitalized on Sacramento’s struggles in the final period, outscoring the Kings 32-17.
Jake LaRavia gave Sacramento an early boost off the bench, scoring 15 points in the first half but failing to add to his total after halftime.
Jonas Valanciunas contributed 19 points and 13 rebounds for the Kings, while Keon Ellis recorded 11 points and seven boards.
The Nuggets controlled the glass with a 46-45 rebounding edge and made 24 free throws compared to Sacramento’s 11.
Denver also got a lift from Nnaji, who scored 10 points on 4-of-7 shooting in 19 minutes. Murray was aggressive attacking the rim and drew three fouls on three-point attempts, leading to nine free throws.
Aaron Gordon missed his third consecutive game for Denver due to an ankle injury. Peyton Watson returned from a knee sprain and logged 17 minutes, finishing with two points and three rebounds.
Sacramento, now 1-5 in its last six games, will look to bounce back in its next matchup.
