Nikola Jokic scored 26 points, but the Denver Nuggets suffered a 118-110 home loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night.
The Serbian NBA star also recorded nine rebounds and eight assists. However, his performance was not enough to stop Portland’s second-half comeback.
The Trail Blazers overcame a 14-point deficit and remained undefeated on the road this season.
Jokic and Murray Lead Denver
Jokic played 36 minutes and made 10 of his 22 field goal attempts. He also added four steals and one blocked shot.
Meanwhile, Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 35 points.
Denver built an early advantage and appeared in control during the first half. However, Portland responded with five consecutive three-pointers late in the second quarter.
The Trail Blazers continued their comeback after halftime.
Denver entered the final quarter with an 87-85 lead, but Portland quickly moved ahead with a 9-2 run.
Portland Completes Comeback
Deni Avdija led Portland with 28 points, while Donovan Clingan contributed 17 points and 18 rebounds.
Damian Lillard added 20 points. Meanwhile, Jrue Holiday recorded 17 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds.
Jokic and Murray helped Denver cut the deficit to three points late in the game.
However, Portland answered with several important baskets to secure the victory.
The result improved the Trail Blazers’ road record to 4-0.
For Denver, the defeat marked its second loss in three home games this season.
Despite the result, Jokic continued to play a central role in Denver’s offense. The Serbian center remains one of the team’s leading contributors as the new NBA season develops.
