----- The Denver Nuggets close the game on an 18-8 run to defeat the Portland Trail Blazers 104-101 Monday night at Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado.
Jusuf Nurkic played well in his first trip back to Denver since being traded to Portland last February, but it wasn't enough as the Denver Nuggets snapped the Trail Blazers three-game winning streak with a 104-101 Monday night at Pepsi Center in Denver.
After Damian Lillard made a three-pointer with 5:00 remaining in the game to give the Blazers a 93-86 lead, the Nuggets closed game on a 18-8 run to edge the Blazers. Jamal Murray led Denver (24-23) with 38 points including a huge three with 2:02 remaining to tie the game at 95-95.
The Blazers had four shots in the final 30 seconds to win or tie the game, but Denver was able to hold on for the win.
Lillard led Portland (25-22) with 25 points and eight assists and Jusuf Nurkic added 19 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks.
Next up- The Blazers will return to Portland to host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. The game is scheduled to tip off at 7:00 PM.
Chad's take- Poor execution = Another game that slipped away.