Michael Porter Jr. delivered an outstanding performance with 30 points and 11 rebounds, stepping up as Jamal Murray exited with a sprained ankle, to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 103-97 win over the Miami Heat. This victory extends Denver’s winning streak to five games since the NBA All-Star break.
“Caught a little rhythm,” Porter said. “But nothing too different. We obviously need Jamal. But some shots were just falling.”
Despite leading by 16 points in the fourth quarter, the Nuggets saw their lead dwindle to just two points after a key shot by Jimmy Butler. However, Nikola Jokic secured the win with two crucial free throws, contributing 18 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists to the effort.
“Definitely had a playoff vibe to it,” Porter said. “They play hard. They play really hard.”
This matchup was the first since the Nuggets and Heat faced off in last June’s NBA Finals, where Denver clinched their first NBA title.
Murray’s night ended prematurely before halftime following a sprained right ankle, adding to his season’s challenges with injuries. Nuggets coach Michael Malone highlighted the decision to be cautious with Murray’s condition.
“It’s great for him to realize being cautious right now is probably the really prudent decision,” Malone said.
In Murray’s absence, the Nuggets managed to maintain their lead with a collective effort from Reggie Jackson, Christian Braun, and Jokic. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Aaron Gordon also played pivotal roles, scoring 18 and 16 points, respectively.
“They’re really aggressive and they are not quitting,” Jokic commented on the Heat’s performance. “They know what they’re doing and it’s always hard to play against that team.”
The Heat, despite missing key players due to injuries, showed resilience with Bam Adebayo scoring 22 points and Butler contributing 21 points. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra praised the team’s tenacity and defensive effort.
“Our guys have that fortitude and grit to keep on fighting back,” Spoelstra said. “There was a little bit of a struggle offensively, and that’s a credit to their defense.”
The Nuggets and Heat are scheduled for a rematch on March 13, with both teams looking to build on their recent performances. In a special pregame ceremony, Thomas Bryant, currently suspended from the Heat but part of Denver’s championship team last season, was presented with his championship ring, marking a unique moment as the NBA allowed his presence for this occasion.
The Heat will welcome the Utah Jazz on Saturday night, while the Nuggets are set to face the Los Angeles Lakers on the same night, continuing their respective campaigns.
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