The Denver Nuggets demonstrated their dominance with a 111-93 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Monday night. Jamal Murray’s 25-point performance, complemented by Michael Porter Jr.’s 22 points, played a pivotal role in the Nuggets’ win, extending the Hornets’ losing streak to 11 games.
Nikola Jokic contributed across the board with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists. This victory marks the second time in the past 1 1/2 weeks that the Nuggets have defeated the Hornets.
Aaron Gordon, returning from an injury sustained on Christmas Day due to a dog bite, added 10 points for Denver. His return to the lineup, despite his injuries, was a welcome sight for both his teammates and coach Michael Malone.
Charlotte faced challenges with key players missing. Terry Rozier was out due to illness, adding to the absences of LaMelo Ball, sidelined with a right ankle sprain, and Gordon Hayward, out with a left calf strain. Despite these setbacks, Miles Bridges led the Hornets with 26 points, with Nick Richards and Brandon Miller each contributing 15 points.
In a touching pregame ceremony, former Nugget Ish Smith, who started for the Hornets in Rozier’s absence, received his championship ring from his former Denver teammates.
The game was evenly matched at halftime, tied at 49, but Denver took control in the third quarter. The Nuggets outscored the Hornets 40-17, including a commanding 20-2 run featuring a three-pointer from Murray, showcasing their offensive prowess. This surge mirrored a similar performance in their previous encounter with the Hornets on December 23rd.
Heading into the fourth quarter with a 23-point lead, the Nuggets began rotating their bench players, while the Hornets struggled to make significant inroads into the deficit.
Looking ahead, the Hornets will continue their six-game trip against Sacramento on Tuesday night, hoping to snap their losing streak. Meanwhile, the Nuggets will face Golden State on Wednesday night, looking to build on their momentum from this convincing win.
The Nuggets’ ability to pull away decisively in the second half, coupled with strong performances from Murray, Porter Jr., and Jokic, underscores their status as a formidable team in the league.
