Dec 19, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) drives to the basket during the second half against Portland Trail Blazers center Robert Williams III (35) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Anfernee Simons’ Statement After Game-Winner Over Russell Westbrook

Originally posted on Denver Nuggets on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated Dec 20, 2024 2:05 AM ET

The Denver Nuggets have had a season filled with "worst losses of the season" moments and tonight's game against the Portland Trail Blazers was a contender for that list.

After a horrible loss against the lowly Washington Wizards, Denver found some momentum after going on a three-game winning streak against the Hawks, Clippers, and Kings. It seemed like the team found its groove again, but that all came to a halt after they lost to the 8-18 Portland Trail Blazers tonight.

In the final seconds of the game, Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons made what looked to be the easiest buzzer-beater game-winning layup over Russell Westbrook to finish the game.

ANFERNEE SIMONS GAME WINNER.

pic.twitter.com/cbpoQLSI0A
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) December 20, 2024

"I'm just blessed that it went in for sure," Simons said. "End of the game, can't be afraid to fail like I always say. Those are the moments that we live for playing as little kids. Just blessed man, thank God.

“These are the moments we live for”

Postgame interview brought to you by @brightsidewindo pic.twitter.com/TYWhI0lvaH
— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) December 20, 2024

Simons finished the night with 28 points, 10 assists, and 1 rebounds on 55/36/67 shooting from the field. To make matters worse for the Nuggets, they were playing their full starting lineup against the Trail Blazers tonight. If tonight's game wasn't a wake up call to the team that either a major move needs to be made, or the team needs to start putting more effort on the defensive end, then there won't be one.

This article first appeared on Denver Nuggets on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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