Trail Blazers vs Nuggets 121-132: Jamal Murray has career night for Denver

Jamal Murray scored a career-high 55 points as the Nuggets defeated the Trail Blazers 132-121.

The Portland Trail Blazers came into Wednesday night’s rematch against the Denver Nuggets looking to avoid another one-sided defeat.

They succeeded in slowing Nikola Jokic, but Jamal Murray took over instead, pouring in a career-high 55 points on 20-of-36 shooting to lead Denver to a 132-121 victory at Ball Arena.

 

 

 

 

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The Blazers, already without starting center Deandre Ayton due to a calf injury, turned to rookie Donovan Clingan, who impressed with 17 points and 20 rebounds. Jabari Walker added 17 points, while Anfernee Simons led Portland with 26.

Jokic adjusts, Murray explodes

Portland adjusted their defensive scheme on Jokic after he torched them for 40 points in Monday’s loss.

Instead of using a traditional center to guard him, the Blazers deployed Toumani Camara on the perimeter to limit his shooting and easy drives.

When Jokic attacked, Portland collapsed on him with multiple defenders.

The strategy held Jokic to just seven shot attempts in the first half, but it opened opportunities for his teammates.

The two-time MVP picked apart the defence with precise passing, finishing with 10 assists. Murray, his primary beneficiary, capitalised with a dominant scoring display.

In the second half, the Blazers switched to Clingan guarding Jokic one-on-one, but the shift only allowed Jokic to find his rhythm.

He finished with 26 points despite the Blazers’ efforts.

 

 

 

 

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Blazers struggle on the glass

By choosing to go small, Portland struggled with rebounding early on, allowing Denver to secure 12 offensive rebounds for 14 second-chance points.

However, Clingan’s effort on the boards kept the Blazers competitive, as his 10 offensive rebounds contributed to Portland’s 14 total, leading to 18 second-chance points.

Denver’s 3-point barrage

The Nuggets capitalised on Portland’s collapsing defence, making 15 of 38 three-pointers (39.5%).

While the final percentage dipped below 40%, Denver had been above 50% for much of the game, punishing the Blazers whenever they left shooters open.

Portland made a brief fourth-quarter run as Denver attempted to get Murray his career-high, but the outcome was never in doubt.

The Nuggets’ starting five accounted for 129 of the team’s 132 points, highlighting the dominance of their top lineup.

What’s next?

The Blazers enter the NBA All-Star break and will return to action on 20 February against Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers.