NEW YORK — The Denver Nuggets clinched a tight 122-117 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night, marking their third consecutive win and improving their record to 20-10. Jamal Murray led the way with 32 points, while Nikola Jokic contributed a robust 29 points and 11 rebounds.
Aaron Gordon added 18 points, and Michael Porter Jr. contributed 15 points, aiding the defending champion Nuggets in maintaining their winning momentum. Jokic emphasized the importance of starting games with the right energy and being the aggressors, which has been key to Denver’s recent success, especially on the road.
The Nets, meanwhile, suffered their fifth straight loss, dropping to a 13-15 record. Cam Thomas was the top scorer for Brooklyn with 23 points. Cam Johnson added 17 points, while Dorian Finney-Smith and Mikal Bridges each scored 14. Royce O’Neale and Day’Ron Sharpe contributed 13 points apiece, and Nic Claxton finished with 10 points and 16 rebounds.
Brooklyn coach Jacques Vaughn praised the team’s balanced scoring and high assist numbers, believing it to be a successful formula. The Nets showcased this balance with seven players scoring in double figures and a collective effort in playmaking.
The game reached a tense climax when Thomas’ four-point play brought the Nets within one point with just 19.4 seconds remaining. Vaughn acknowledged his team’s effort and focus throughout the game, which put them in a position to potentially win.
In the critical final moments, Murray made three of four free throws to extend Denver’s lead. A key play came when Murray grabbed an offensive rebound off his missed free throw and was fouled, allowing him to sink both free throws and secure a 118-114 lead for the Nuggets.
Brooklyn was hampered by the absence of Ben Simmons, sidelined with a left lower back nerve impingement, and Lonnie Walker IV, out with a strained left hamstring.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets will face Charlotte on Saturday night, while the Nets will host Detroit, hoping to end their losing streak.
