The Denver Nuggets held off a late surge from the Charlotte Hornets to win 119‑105 at Ball Arena, extending their season series lead to 2‑0. Nikola Jokic delivered his 23rd triple‑double of the year (23 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists), while Jamal Murray added 28 points and Michael Porter Jr. sparked a decisive third‑quarter run.
Game Summary
Jokic anchored Denver with his signature all‑around play, controlling the tempo and feeding teammates in the paint. Murray’s five three‑pointers stretched the Hornets’ perimeter defense, and Porter Jr.’s 19‑point burst in the third quarter pushed the lead to double digits. Charlotte’s LaMelo Ball answered with 21 points and eight assists, but the Hornets could not sustain momentum as Denver’s depth took over.
Key Performances
- Nikola Jokic – 23 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists (23rd triple‑double of the season).
- Jamal Murray – 28 points, including five three‑pointers.
- Michael Porter Jr. – 19 points, key third‑quarter surge.
- LaMelo Ball – 21 points, eight assists for Charlotte.
- Aaron Gordon – fast‑break dunk that sparked the final 9‑2 run.
Season Context
Denver entered the contest with a 4‑1 record, seeking to rebound from a narrow 112‑108 loss to the Phoenix Suns. The victory improved the Nuggets to 5‑2, reinforcing their position as a top‑four contender in the Western Conference. Charlotte, coming off a 2‑2 road stretch and a heavy defeat to the Golden State Warriors, fell to 3‑6, highlighting defensive issues that need urgent correction.
Implications for Denver
The win solidifies Denver’s early‑season trajectory and adds momentum heading into a back‑to‑back with the Memphis Grizzlies. Jokic’s continued triple‑double production keeps him at the forefront of the MVP conversation and underscores the team’s reliance on elite playmaking from its star center.
Implications for Charlotte
The Hornets must address perimeter defense, which allowed 70 points after halftime. While Ball’s development remains a bright spot, the team’s overall consistency will determine whether it can climb out of the early playoff gap in the Eastern Conference.
What’s Next
Denver returns home to host the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday, a test of its defensive grit. Charlotte concludes its road trip in Washington, D.C., before opening a home stand that includes a pivotal clash with the Atlanta Hawks.
Key Takeaways
- Jokic’s triple‑double showcased Denver’s depth and strategic flexibility.
- Hornets’ defensive lapses persisted despite early offensive spark.
- Nuggets’ season outlook remains favorable as they chase a top‑four Western seed.
- Charlotte’s path forward hinges on improving defense and capitalizing on Ball’s playmaking.
