DENVER — In a thrilling matchup, Russell Westbrook contributed 21 points and played exceptional defense during the game’s final moments, helping the Denver Nuggets secure a narrow 121-119 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Monday night.

Nikola Jokic showcased his impressive skills with a triple-double, recording 28 points, 14 rebounds, and 14 assists. This marked his third triple-double in as many as four games. Denver faced the challenge of competing without Jamal Murray, who was sidelined due to concussion protocol, and also lost Aaron Gordon early in the game to a right calf strain.

The Nuggets found themselves down 109-98 with just 5:45 remaining on the clock. However, they mounted a significant comeback, taking a 118-117 lead following a critical three-pointer from Peyton Watson. Both teams exchanged points down the stretch, and Julian Strawther made one of two free throws with just 12 seconds left, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

This left the Raptors with an opportunity to steal the game. On the last play, Westbrook effectively defended against RJ Barrett, whose long-range shot from 26 feet fell short as time expired, securing the win for Denver.

Barrett ended the night with 18 points, while Grady Dick and Jakob Poeltl contributed 26 and 24 points, respectively.

Observations: For the Raptors, there is some positive news as forward Scottie Barnes, who is recovering from an orbital fracture, is not expected to require surgery according to coach Darko Rajakovic. Barnes has been absent since the Raptors’ home defeat to the Nuggets on October 28.

For the Nuggets, injuries have placed additional demands on their bench players to step up. Strawther has shown promise in recent outings, and Hunter Tyson is capitalizing on his chance to make an impact.

A pivotal moment in the game arrived when the Raptors were leading by six points until Poeltl incurred his fifth and sixth fouls within a narrow 23-second window. Following Poeltl’s exit from the game, the Nuggets turned the tide, outscoring the Raptors 14-8.

Notable statistic: Jokic’s recent performance includes three triple-doubles in four games, with an additional triple-double narrowly missed by one rebound against Minnesota a few nights earlier. However, he did commit seven turnovers against the Raptors.

Looking ahead, the Raptors are set to face the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night, while the Nuggets will host the Oklahoma City Thunder for the second time in a fortnight.