In a powerful response to a recent setback, the Denver Nuggets defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 122-110 on Tuesday night in Memphis. The NBA Cup game saw the Nuggets overcome a two-game losing streak, led by Jamal Murray’s impressive scoring. Denver’s victory was fueled by aggressive defense and capitalizing on Memphis’s persistent turnover issues, even without star player Nikola Jokic on the court.
Nuggets’ Aggressive Response after Sunday Loss
Coming off a disappointing 105-90 loss to the very same Grizzlies just two days prior, the Nuggets entered the game with a completely different mindset. Head coach Michael Malone had demanded more physicality from his team, and they answered the call right from the start.
Denver’s defense was relentless, putting immense pressure on the Grizzlies’ ball handlers. This aggressive approach resulted in Memphis committing 14 turnovers in the first half alone, disrupting their offensive rhythm and preventing them from finding any consistency. The Nuggets played with the energy and purpose of a reigning champion determined to get back on track.
Key Players Step Up in Jokic’s Absence
With two-time MVP Nikola Jokic missing his third consecutive game for personal reasons, other players on the Nuggets’ roster needed to elevate their performance. Jamal Murray led the offensive charge with a game-high 27 points, setting the tone for his team.
Michael Porter Jr. was also a major contributor, securing a crucial double-double that provided stability on both ends of the floor. The supporting cast played a vital role in the win.
- Christian Braun delivered a significant spark off the bench, scoring 19 points.
- Russell Westbrook showcased his all-around game, notching a triple-double with 12 points, 14 assists, and 10 rebounds.
This collective effort demonstrated Denver’s depth and resilience, proving they can win tough games even without their best player.
Turnovers Continue to Plague the Grizzlies
For the Memphis Grizzlies, the story of the night was one of self-inflicted wounds. Their ongoing struggle with turnovers was on full display, a problem that has plagued them all season. They entered the contest averaging 16.6 giveaways and ended the game with 20.
These mistakes were costly, as the Nuggets converted them into 23 points. Despite the team’s struggles, a few Memphis players had strong individual performances. Santi Aldama was a bright spot, tying his career high with 28 points. Jaren Jackson Jr. also had a solid game with 19 points, eight rebounds, and five blocks. However, their efforts were not enough to overcome the team’s crippling turnover problem.
Third Quarter Blitz and Shooting Efficiency Seal the Win
The game was ultimately decided in the opening minutes of the second half. Holding a 68-57 lead at halftime, Denver came out of the locker room and immediately went on a massive 15-1 run. This surge extended their lead to 83-58, creating a comfortable cushion that Memphis could not overcome despite a late push.
A significant factor in the victory was Denver’s improved shooting. After shooting just 41.7% from the field on Sunday, the Nuggets shot an efficient 48.5% in the rematch. This highlights a key trend for the team, which is now undefeated this season when shooting above 45%.
| Category | Denver Nuggets | Memphis Grizzlies |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goal % | 48.5% | 45.2% |
| Turnovers | 12 | 20 |
| Points off Turnovers | 23 | 10 |
| Rebounds | 47 | 44 |
The loss drops the Grizzlies to 0-6 in NBA Cup games over the last two seasons, leaving them searching for solutions to their recurring issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Nikola Jokic not playing in the game?
Nikola Jokic missed his third straight game for the Denver Nuggets due to personal reasons. The team has not provided a specific timeline for his return.
Who were the top performers for the Denver Nuggets?
Jamal Murray led all scorers with 27 points. Other key contributors included Michael Porter Jr. with a double-double, Christian Braun with 19 points, and Russell Westbrook, who recorded a triple-double.
What was the main reason for the Memphis Grizzlies’ loss?
The Grizzlies’ primary issue was turnovers. They committed 20 turnovers in the game, which led to 23 points for the Nuggets and stalled their offensive momentum.
How did the Nuggets’ shooting compare to their previous game?
The Nuggets significantly improved their shooting, going from 41.7% in their Sunday loss to 48.5% in Tuesday’s victory. Their efficiency was a key factor in the win.
