The Dallas Mavericks were dealt a tough blow on Wednesday night as Kyrie Irving missed his first game since joining the team. The Mavs, who were already missing key players due to injuries, fell to the Denver Nuggets 118-109 in a game that was close until the fourth quarter.
Luka Doncic did his best to carry the load for the Mavs, putting up 37 points in the losing effort. Meanwhile, the Nuggets were led by the stellar play of Nikola Jokic, who recorded his 21st triple-double of the season with 14 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists. Michael Porter Jr. added 22 points, including five 3-pointers, while Jeff Green had a season-high 24 points off the bench.
The Nuggets took control of the game in the second quarter, outscoring the Mavericks 35-19 and pushing their lead to double-digits. While the Mavs made a late push, a 3-pointer from Porter Jr. with under five minutes to go gave Denver some breathing room and the Nuggets held on for the win.
The win was a testament to the depth and chemistry of the Nuggets, who have the best home record in the NBA this season at 27-4. With Jokic leading the way and players like Porter Jr. and Green emerging as reliable scorers, the Nuggets look primed to make a deep run in the playoffs.
The loss for the Mavericks was certainly a disappointing one, but it also provided a reminder of just how dangerous the Nuggets are. With the two teams splitting their four-game season series, it could be a matchup to watch out for in the playoffs.
