The Denver Nuggets stepped up in the win over the Portland Trail Blazers.
The Denver Nuggets got a statement win in Portland. After losing two straight inner division battles within the week, the Nuggets came in with a chip on their shoulder.
They metaphorically punched the Trail Blazers in the face and looked as if they wanted the win a lot more in this game.
Both squads came into the game with the same record jockeying for playoff positioning. At the end, Denver was the team who seemed more desperate for a win and it resulted in a big 102-85 win on the road. Let’s grade some of the best performers on the night.
Nikola Jokic-A+- Jokic took advantage of Jusuf Nurkic in this match up. Nurkic only finished with 10 points and one rebound. Meanwhile, Jokic had an outstanding 27 points to go along with nine rebounds and six assists. It is looking like the ankle is finally back at 100%. This was a great way to bounce back after the 10 turnover debacle the other night.
Wilson Chandler-A- There was actually a Wilson Chandler sighting in this game. He reverted back to his “last season,” form and did a great job containing Evan Turner. Turner only finished with seven points. Wilson achieved a double double with 21 points and 11 rebounds while shooting 53.3% from the field. Hopefully, he can keep this production up consistently now. Denver will need it with their tough upcoming games.
Next: Nuggets get back on track in Portland
Gary Harris-B+- Harris returned to the lineup after missing the Minnesota game. He was tasked with the very tall order of shutting down C.J. McCollum and actually did a decent job. Harris came away with three steals and one block. Harris shot an extremely high 58.3% from the field which resulted in 17 points and possessed a box plus/minus of +27 on the night.