Nuggets Dominate Trail Blazers with Record-Setting Performance
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Nikola Jokic scored 32 points, had nine rebounds and seven assists in 29 1/2 minutes and the Denver Nuggets routed the Portland Trail Blazers 157-103 on Friday night for the most road points in franchise history and the most in an NBA game this season.
Nuggets Explode on Offense
The Nuggets’ offensive explosion was a stark contrast to their recent one-point loss to the L.A. Clippers. Denver finished with 157 points, the most the franchise has scored in a game since 2008.
Jokic Leads the Charge
Jokic was dominant, scoring 19 points in the first quarter and finishing with 24 points by halftime. He shot 10-of-15 from the field, including 3-of-4 from three-point range. “We had a really good game. Everybody stepped up, everybody played with a lot of energy,” said Jokic. “Defense was playing on a high level. We were making shots. We had a good start, like really, it was a perfect game for us.”
Murray and Strawther Contribute
Jamal Murray added 25 points, bouncing back after a close loss the previous night. Julian Strawther and Tim Hardaway Jr. Each contributed 19 points to the Nuggets’ balanced attack.
Denver’s Shooting Prowess
- Denver shot 21 of 41 from three-point range.
- The Nuggets went into halftime with an 82-53 lead.
- Denver extended the lead to 55 in the second half.
Trail Blazers Struggle
Jrue Holiday led Portland with 19 points. Deni Avdija recorded 15 points, 13 assists, and seven rebounds, but also committed six turnovers.
“Okay, we can say it was the All-Star break, we can find excuses, but I think we needed to play with a lot more urgency, like we started the game today,”
Nikola Jokic
Looking Ahead
The Nuggets will continue their road trip with a game against the Golden State Warriors on Sunday.
FAQ
How many points did the Nuggets score?
The Denver Nuggets scored 157 points.
Who led the Nuggets in scoring?
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 32 points.
What was the final score?
The final score was Denver Nuggets 157, Portland Trail Blazers 103.
The Nuggets’ dominant performance showcased their offensive firepower and resilience following a tough loss. Their ability to control the game from the start and maintain a high level of energy throughout was key to their record-setting victory.