The Serbian center Nikola Jokić contributed to the Nuggets’ triumph with 29 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. This marked the second victory for the Nuggets over Portland in just three days, as they continue to pursue the top spot in the Western Conference of the NBA, where they are still closely followed by Oklahoma, Minnesota, and the Los Angeles Clippers. In contrast to their previous encounter, one of the worst teams in the West showed their strength against the reigning champions. The Trail Blazers led for almost 36 minutes, holding a lead of up to 14 points early in the second quarter, but Denver took over the lead towards the end of the third quarter and held onto it.