CHICAGO – Facing significant challenges with key players sidelined, the Denver Nuggets showcased their depth and resilience with a 114-106 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday night. Despite the ejection of Nikola Jokic and the absence of Jamal Murray, the Nuggets rallied behind Reggie Jackson’s standout performance.
Jackson led Denver with 25 points, including five 3-pointers, as the reigning NBA champions showed their prowess from behind the arc, going 14 for 30. Michael Porter Jr. contributed 17 points, while Aaron Gordon added 14 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Julian Strawther’s 16 points also played a crucial role in Denver’s victory, their second straight win following a triumph at Atlanta.
The game took a dramatic turn when Jokic, the two-time NBA MVP, was ejected in the second quarter for directing language towards an official. Jokic’s frustration boiled over after he felt he was fouled on a reverse layup. Despite his early exit and the team’s other challenges, Denver’s coach Michael Malone emphasized the team’s expectation to win, regardless of the circumstances.
For the Bulls, Coby White continued his hot streak, leading the team with 27 points. Nikola Vucevic also shined with 26 points and 16 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Denver’s determined effort. The Bulls were coming off an overtime loss at Milwaukee and were without key players Zach LaVine and Alex Caruso due to injuries.
Denver’s resilience was particularly evident in the second half. After pulling within five points, Chicago saw Denver pull away again, with Strawther’s late third-quarter contributions helping extend the lead. The Nuggets maintained control in the fourth quarter, with Gordon’s three-pointer cementing their lead.
The Bulls’ White acknowledged the impact of Jokic’s ejection, noting that it seemed to galvanize the Nuggets, with everyone stepping up confidently. Denver’s ability to adapt and perform despite the absence of key players like Murray, who was out with an ankle issue, was a testament to their depth and mental toughness.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets return home for a three-game stand, starting against Brooklyn. Meanwhile, the Bulls face a challenging two-game set in Miami. This victory for Denver underlines the importance of team depth and the ability to adapt in the face of adversity, qualities that will be crucial as the season progresses. For the Bulls, the focus will be on regrouping and addressing their shortcomings as they prepare for their upcoming games.
