Jamal Murray exploded for 45 points, including eight three-pointers, to propel the Denver Nuggets to a 128-125 victory over the Utah Jazz in a thrilling contest.
LOS ANGELES: Jamal Murray delivered a masterclass, pouring in 45 points to guide the Denver Nuggets to a tense 128-125 win over the Utah Jazz.
The Nuggets point guard was sensational from deep, draining eight three-pointers in a 13-of-19 shooting performance overall.
His virtuoso effort was crucial in a game that featured a staggering 22 lead changes.
Nikola Jokic provided strong support with 22 points and 12 rebounds.
All five Denver starters scored in double figures to secure the important Western Conference victory.
The result improves Denver’s record to 38-24.
Utah, meanwhile, slumped to 18-43 with the loss, remaining near the bottom of the conference standings.
In other action, Giannis Antetokounmpo returned from a five-week injury absence but could not prevent the Milwaukee Bucks from a heavy 108-81 defeat to the Boston Celtics.
Antetokounmpo, playing for the first time since late January, finished with 19 points and 11 rebounds.
Boston’s offense was firing on all cylinders, with all five starters reaching double digits.
Payton Pritchard led the bench charge with 25 points, including five three-pointers.
The Celtics connected on 20 three-pointers as a team to improve to 41-20, solidifying second place in the Eastern Conference.
The Bucks fell to 26-34 with their third consecutive loss.
Elsewhere, Trae Young was ejected before making his debut for the Washington Wizards during their 123-118 loss to the Houston Rockets.
Young, yet to play for Washington due to injury, entered the court to argue a foul call in the third quarter.
“Don’t expect me to get ejected too many more times D.C…but I’m definitely bringing that energy and competitiveness when I’m back for my brothers!” Young later posted on social media.
On the court, Alperen Sengun’s 32 points and Kevin Durant’s 30 points powered Houston to the win, improving their record to 38-22.
