In a recent encounter, the Denver Nuggets bemoaned a missed opportunity in the final minutes, reflecting on a narrow defeat in Philadelphia. However, faced with a parallel challenge against the formidable Boston Celtics, they demonstrated resilience to secure a 102-100 triumph on Friday night.
Jamal Murray showcased his prowess with an impressive 35-point contribution, complemented by Nikola Jokic’s 34 points. Denver’s strategic approach ensured they didn’t succumb to a late-game lapse, marking the Celtics’ initial home loss this season.
Murray reflected on the intense matchup, stating, “Both teams were countering each other. Both throwing haymakers, and we were able to have the final punch.”
Jokic, delivering a stellar performance, notched up 12 rebounds and nine assists, contributing significantly to thwarting the Celtics’ 20-game home victory streak. This clash sets the stage for future encounters, with the teams scheduled to face off again in Denver on March 7.
Jayson Tatum, a pivotal figure for the Celtics, had an opportunity to level the score in the closing moments. However, his one-legged fadeaway attempt contested by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope failed, concluding the game with Tatum at 22 points and eight rebounds. Derrick White and Kristaps Porzingis added 24 and 21 points, respectively.
Jokic capitalized on the Celtics’ decision not to double-team him, exhibiting efficiency by connecting on 14 of 22 field attempts. His performance extended beyond scoring, with nine assists in the initial three quarters. Murray, too, displayed prowess with a 15-of-22 shooting record from the field.
Nuggets coach Michael Malone acknowledged the significance of this effort against the Celtics’ robust defense, stating, “They played for themselves and they played for other people. It was high-level basketball from two All-Star players.”
Jokic’s remarkable on-court response gained added significance considering the recent passing of Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milosevic, who coached Jokic in Serbia. Murray praised Jokic’s ability to maintain focus amidst emotional challenges, describing his response as “amazing.”
The game unfolded with intense energy, featuring 13 lead changes and eight ties. Denver orchestrated a critical 12-4 run in the third quarter to erase a halftime deficit, setting the stage for a closely contested final period.
Murray’s five successful shots in the last quarter propelled the Nuggets to a 95-91 lead, but the Celtics retaliated with a 7-0 run. Jokic, displaying his versatility, scored crucial points, securing a 102-100 victory.
The closing moments were marked by strategic timeouts, missed opportunities, and defensive efforts. Tatum’s final attempt to tie the game fell short, ultimately securing Denver’s triumph.
This victory holds particular significance for Jokic, playing amidst the emotional aftermath of Milosevic’s passing. Malone emphasized Jokic’s exceptional character, noting, “Nikola went out there and he honored Dejan’s memory and his legacy, by playing at the level he played at. Not easy to do with a heavy heart. But Nikola is a special person.”
The Nuggets will now set their sights on a clash with the Washington Wizards, while the Celtics embark on a three-game road trip starting with a matchup against the Houston Rockets.