Jordan Clarkson’s standout performance, featuring 27 points and nine assists, propelled the Utah Jazz to a 124-111 victory over the Denver Nuggets, marking their ninth win in the last 11 games.
Clarkson, reveling in the team’s success, credited his attention to offensive play and a focus on creating opportunities for his teammates. This win follows Utah’s recent triumphs against Philadelphia and Milwaukee, showcasing their prowess by defeating the current NBA champions.
“We’re having fun!” Clarkson said. “I draw a lot of attention on the offensive end, so I’m just slowing down and trying to make the plays for my teammates. … It’s spacing and opportunity.”
Jazz coach Will Hardy praised the team’s enthusiasm and unity, highlighting their supportive team dynamics and effective ball movement. Lauri Markkanen contributed 26 points and 12 rebounds, while Collin Sexton added 22 points. John Collins also played a significant role, scoring 15 points for the Jazz (19-20), who demonstrated impressive shooting efficiency and agility in fast-break situations.
“They’re playing really hard,” Hardy said. “The way they’re rooting for each other and moving the ball and really playing as a team, it feels good.”
Markkanen emphasized the team’s growing chemistry and collective understanding of their identity and playstyle. Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 27 points, displaying remarkable shooting accuracy but lacking substantial support from his team.
“We’re building chemistry, really learning our identity, how to play on both sides of the ball — truly playing together,” Markkanen said.
Despite a series of six consecutive road wins since early December, the Nuggets (26-13) were visibly outperformed by the Jazz’s energy and aggression, as noted by Nuggets coach Michael Malone. The Jazz’s bench players, crucial in their recent success, outscored Denver’s reserves, with Clarkson leading this effort through his effective shooting and dynamic assists.
“They played harder than us. I think that was the most obvious thing for me,” Malone said. “They came out with tremendous energy. They attacked us for 48 (minutes), and I didn’t think we came close to matching that.”
Although the Nuggets managed to reduce a 23-point deficit, the Jazz quickly regained control, raising concerns for Malone about the team’s future performances against top-tier opponents. Jokic’s frustration was evident, especially after Markkanen’s layup increased Utah’s lead.
“If we continue to do this, we’re going to take a real nosedive,” Malone said. “That’s the reality of it. We’re playing against some really, really talented teams that are having great seasons and if we don’t come with a workman-like mentality, there’s gonna be more nights like this.”
The Nuggets have struggled in Salt Lake City, with their last win there dating back to early 2020. The Jazz concluded the first half strongly, led by Clarkson’s impressive performance.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets will host the New Orleans Pelicans, while the Jazz will face the Toronto Raptors, both games scheduled for Friday night.
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