The Denver Nuggets broke a long-standing curse by winning two road games against the Utah Jazz in a single season, achieving a 132-121 victory on Monday night at Delta Center. This marked a historic moment for the franchise, which had never accomplished this feat before.
Nikola Jokic led the way with an impressive performance, scoring 36 points, grabbing 23 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists for his 13th triple-double of the season. A pivotal moment came in the third quarter when Jokic scored 17 of his points, helping the Nuggets build a significant lead.
Although the Jazz made a run in the fourth quarter, Jokic’s timely 3-pointer ignited an 11-2 run that sealed the game.
Coach Michael Malone emphasized motivation before the game, humorously telling his team that the Jazz were “undefeated.” Russell Westbrook also shone, recording 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists with no turnovers, showcasing his leadership and teamwork. Jamal Murray contributed with 20 points and 10 assists, while Michael Porter Jr. added 21 points.
The game featured several momentum shifts, including strong runs from both teams. The Nuggets struggled defensively at times, allowing the Jazz to take leads, but they managed to rally back. Jokic’s assists were crucial, including a highlight lob to Christian Braun, who scored 20 points on efficient shooting.
Overall, the Nuggets displayed resilience and teamwork, marking a significant step forward in their season as they continue to build momentum.