The Denver Nuggets secured a 124-117 victory over the Chicago Bulls at Ball Arena on Tuesday in their fourth preseason matchup. Jamal Murray led the charge with 30 points, while Nikola Jokic contributed 18 points and 8 assists.
Denver started strong, outscoring Chicago 37-29 in the first quarter. Aaron Gordon added 17 points, including key three-pointers, as the Nuggets built an early lead. Christian Braun chipped in 6 points and 7 rebounds, helping Denver control the boards.
The Bulls struggled to keep pace despite Josh Giddey posting 25 points, 6 rebounds, and 9 assists. Ayo Dosunmu added 11 points before leaving the game early, while Nikola Vucevic scored 5 points with 10 rebounds. Chicago’s bench had limited impact as Zach Collins and Jalen Smith combined for just 9 points.
Denver maintained momentum in the second quarter, with Murray hitting multiple mid-range jumpers and free throws to extend the lead to double digits. Jokic contributed 10 points in the period, distributing the ball effectively to teammates. Cameron Johnson added 11 points, including a pair of three-pointers that kept the Bulls from closing the gap.
Chicago attempted a late push in the third quarter, outscoring Denver 28-20. Giddey continued to produce offensively, while Buzelis added 14 points off the bench. However, the Nuggets’ depth proved decisive as Denver’s reserves, including Zeke Nnaji and Tim Hardaway Jr., added 12 points combined to preserve the lead.
In the final period, Denver’s starters rested for extended stretches, but Murray and Jokic ensured the team held on. Murray finished 9-of-18 from the field and 10-of-10 from the free-throw line. Jokic ended with 8 assists and 8 rebounds, supporting Denver’s efficient offense.
The Nuggets shot 43.3% from the field and 90.2% from the free-throw line, while the Bulls managed 50.6% shooting but only 34.2% from three-point range. Turnovers were nearly even, with Denver committing 9 and Chicago 18.
This preseason win improves Denver’s record to 3-1, while the Bulls fall to 2-2.
