In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, the Denver Nuggets secured their ninth consecutive victory by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 129-115. Jamal Murray was the standout performer, scoring a remarkable 34 points, while Nikola Jokic came close to a triple-double with 29 points, 17 rebounds, and nine assists.
Jokic demonstrated his shooting versatility by attempting a career-high 14 three-pointers, making six of them. Murray continued his strong form following a career-high 55 points before the All-Star break, shooting 12 of 18 from the field and contributing seven three-pointers to the team’s efforts.
The Nuggets, who were heavily favored by 17.5 points, faced a resilient Hornets team that fought hard despite missing key players LaMelo Ball and Mark Williams. Charlotte’s Miles Bridges shone brightly with a season-high 36 points and 13 rebounds, showcasing the team’s depth even in challenging circumstances. The Hornets managed to tie the Nuggets in fast-break points and points in the paint, indicating their competitive spirit throughout the game.
The game took a decisive turn in the fourth quarter when Julian Strawther’s back-to-back three-pointers ignited a crucial 13-2 run, allowing the Nuggets to establish a more comfortable lead. With this victory, the Nuggets improved their position in the Western Conference standings, moving into second place following Memphis’s loss.
On the injury front, the Nuggets welcomed back Russell Westbrook, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon. Gordon added 18 points to the team’s tally, while Porter contributed with 11 rebounds, further solidifying the Nuggets’ lineup.
Looking ahead, both teams are set to play again on Saturday, with the Nuggets gearing up for a challenging match against the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Hornets facing the Portland Trail Blazers.
This victory highlights the Nuggets’ ability to adapt and thrive, building momentum as they head deeper into the season. With their key players returning and showing promising performances, fans can expect an exciting clash against the Lakers next.