Denver Nuggets take control with monster 3rd quarter, cruise past Charlotte Hornets

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Jan 2, 2024, 12:53 IST

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Jamal Murray's 25 points, including 11 in the pivotal third quarter, propelled the Denver Nuggets to a 111-93 victory over the struggling Charlotte Hornets. Michael Porter Jr. contributed 22 points, while Nikola Jokic recorded a double-double. Reggie Jackson chipped in 15 points.

Denver Nuggets take control with monster 3rd quarter, cruise past Charlotte Hornets

Denver Nuggets (Reuters Photo)

NEW DELHI: Jamal Murray scored 25 points, with 11 of them coming in a pivotal third quarter, as the Denver Nuggets defeated the Charlotte Hornets 111-93 on Monday night. This loss marked the 11th straight for the Hornets, continuing their recent struggles. Michael Porter Jr. contributed 22 points, while Nikola Jokic recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Reggie Jackson also played a key role for the Nuggets, chipping in 15 points.
Aaron Gordon returned to the Nuggets' lineup after a two-game absence due to injuries caused by a dog bite, and he finished the game with 10 points. On the other side, Miles Bridges led the Hornets with 26 points and nine rebounds, while Brandon Miller and Nick Richards added 15 points each. Bryce McGowens and Ish Smith both provided 10 points.

The Nuggets and Hornets were tied at 49 going into halftime, but Denver took control in the third quarter. The Nuggets had previously used a 25-1 run in the third quarter of their December 23rd victory over the Hornets, and they nearly replicated that feat in this game. The third quarter featured a 17-0 run by the Nuggets, fueled by strong performances from Murray, Porter, and Jokic.

Denver outscored Charlotte 40-17 in the third quarter, creating a comfortable lead that proved insurmountable for the struggling Hornets. The Nuggets carried their momentum into the fourth quarter, maintaining a substantial lead and securing the 111-93 victory. In both matchups this season, Denver has demonstrated dominance in the third quarter, outscoring Charlotte 70-26 over the two games.
(With Reuters inputs)

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