Denver played a standout game on Tuesday night, defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 144-109, which marked the 76ers’ seventh consecutive loss. Nikola Jokic led the charge for the Nuggets, scoring 27 points, grabbing 13 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists, achieving his 19th triple-double this season. Jokic completed his triple-double late in the third quarter with a pivotal assist that set up a dunk by Aaron Gordon, who showcased an exceptional performance and was not needed in the final quarter.
Gordon had a stellar shooting night, going 6-for-7, including a perfect 3-for-3 from beyond the arc, and sinking all four free-throw attempts, ending the night with 19 points. The Nuggets demonstrated their depth, with six players scoring in double figures, highlighted by Julian Strawther’s impressive 23-point contribution.
On the 76ers’ side, Tyrese Maxey was the standout performer, scoring 28 points and providing 10 assists. However, the team continued to struggle without its key player, Joel Embiid, who is sidelined due to swelling in his left knee. This matchup was part of the NBA’s “Rivals Week,” initially anticipated to feature the last four NBA MVPs, including Embiid (2023) and Jokic (2021, 2022, 2024), but it missed the mark due to Embiid’s absence, as he has not played in Denver since 2019.
Returning to the court for Philadelphia were Paul George (sore groin), Andre Drummond (toe), and Guerschon Yabusele (right knee). George contributed 11 points, Drummond added eight, and Yabusele scored 22. The Nuggets excelled at pushing the pace, achieving their season-high scoring, and dominated the fast break, outscoring the Sixers 39-7.
In a key moment of the game, shortly into the third quarter, the 76ers managed to trim Denver’s lead down to eight points. However, the Nuggets quickly responded with a 24-12 run to regain control. The team shot an impressive 61.2% from the field and 51.6% from three-point territory throughout the game.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets will host the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night, while the 76ers will return to Philadelphia to face the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night.
