Grading Nuggets Players After They Sneak Past The Warriors 119-115 In An Exciting Matchup

Nikola Jokic delivered a masterful performance with 38 points, 10 rebounds, and five steals to propel the Denver Nuggets to a thrilling 119-115 comeback win over the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night. The win extended Denver’s regular-season dominance over Golden State to eight straight games and 11 of the last 12 meetings.

Michael Porter Jr. chipped in with 22 points, and Aaron Gordon added 15 points and nine rebounds, including two crucial free throws with 48 seconds left that gave Denver the lead for good. The Nuggets’ defensive tenacity shone through in the final moments when Jamal Murray’s critical steal with 20 seconds left denied the Warriors a chance to tie or take the lead, sealing the victory with Jokic’s subsequent free throws.

For Golden State, Stephen Curry tallied 24 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds, but his shooting woes from beyond the arc (4-for-15) hindered the Warriors’ offensive consistency. Jonathan Kuminga contributed 19 points in a valiant effort, but the absence of Draymond Green, sidelined with left calf tightness, left a noticeable gap in Golden State’s defensive scheme.

Eight of the last 10 contests between these two teams have been decided by six points or fewer, and this game was no exception. Despite their recent struggles, Golden State showed flashes of their offensive firepower. Still, Denver’s resilience and Jokic’s brilliance proved too much to overcome in this tightly contested battle and we provide a grade for each of the players who made the court tonight. 

Nikola Jokic: A+

Stats: 38 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals, 1 block, 4 turnovers, 1 foul, 14-24 FG, 3-4 3PT FG, 7-9 FT, 40 mins

Nikola Jokic delivered a signature MVP performance, combining elite scoring, rebounding, and playmaking with his usual efficiency. His five steals showcased his underrated defensive instincts, and he was pivotal in the clutch, hitting free throws to seal the game. The reigning league MVP once again proved why he’s the centerpiece of Denver’s dominance.

Aaron Gordon: B+

Stats: 15 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 0 fouls, 4-6 FG, 3-4 3PT FG, 4-6 FT, 33 mins

Aaron Gordon provided a steady two-way presence, contributing key rebounds and facilitating the offense with five assists. His two late free throws gave the Nuggets the lead for good, underlining his composure under pressure. While his stat line wasn’t flashy, Gordon’s impact was instrumental in the win.

Michael Porter Jr.: B+

Stats: 22 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 2 fouls, 8-14 FG, 1-3 3PT FG, 5-6 FT, 31 mins

Porter Jr. showcased his scoring prowess, efficiently racking up 22 points while chipping in on the boards. His ability to attack the rim complemented Denver’s offense, and he was reliable at the free-throw line. Though not a standout defensively, his offensive consistency helped Denver stay competitive.

Christian Braun: B-

Stats: 11 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 3 turnovers, 3 fouls, 3-7 FG, 0-2 3PT FG, 5-7 FT, 36 mins

Christian Braun brought hustle and energy, contributing on both ends of the floor. He was aggressive attacking the rim and earned several trips to the free-throw line, though his turnovers were costly. His defensive activity and effort played a subtle but important role in Denver’s victory.

Jamal Murray: B-

Stats: 12 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists, 1 steal, 3 blocks, 1 turnover, 3 fouls, 4-12 FG, 1-3 3PT FG, 3-3 FT, 34 mins

Jamal Murray struggled with his shot, but his playmaking was crucial as he dished out eight assists and added three surprising blocks. His steal in the closing moments was a game-sealing defensive play. Despite the offensive inconsistency, he made critical contributions when it mattered most.

Russell Westbrook: C+

Stats: 7 points, 1 rebound, 5 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 3 fouls, 3-7 FG, 1-3 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 23 mins

Russell Westbrook had a modest night, providing some secondary playmaking and energy off the bench. His scoring was limited, but he moved the ball well within Denver’s offense. Although not a standout performance, his contributions were solid in limited minutes.

Peyton Watson: C+

Stats: 7 points, 1 rebound, 2 assists, 0 steals, 1 block, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 1-1 FG, 1-1 3PT FG, 4-4 FT, 18 mins

Watson made the most of his minutes, contributing efficient scoring and solid defense. His 4-for-4 showing at the line helped Denver maintain their lead. While his impact was limited by his time on the court, Watson provided a nice boost off the bench.

Julian Strawther: C

Stats: 5 points, 1 rebound, 3 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 2-7 FG, 1-4 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 20 mins

Strawther struggled with his shot but contributed three assists and a steal in a balanced effort. His defensive intensity was commendable, though he lacked offensive impact. He remains a developing piece within Denver’s rotation and tonight was an example of that.

Zeke Nnaji: N/A

Stats: 2 points, 0 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 1 foul, 1-1 FG, 0-0 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 5 mins

Nnaji’s time on the floor was brief, but he managed to score a bucket in limited action. He didn’t have enough playing time to make a meaningful impact and he didn’t get a score as a result.