The Denver Nuggets beat Portland 128-112, with the team's defense showing a strong defensive edge. The Blazers made 29 buckets and turned it over three times in the first half, while the Nuggets outscored Portland 23-11 over the next nine minutes. The Nuggets won the final two quarters, 53-43, after giving up 69 points in the opening two periods. Coach David Adelman praised his team's defensive play, particularly their second-team effort, which included Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson. The victory lifts the Nuggets' record to 44-28, 21-13 at home and marks their first full game under Adelman since November 12. The team's overall rating stands at 112.6 points per possession.