Denver, CO—Michael Porter Jr. stepped up with 30 points to compensate for Jamal Murray’s absence due to a sprained ankle, guiding the Denver Nuggets to a 103-97 victory over the Miami Heat on Thursday night.
Porter’s impressive performance included 12 of 23 shooting from the field, along with four 3-pointers, and 11 rebounds, contributing to the Nuggets’ 5-0 record since the All-Star break.
“I found a good rhythm,” Porter remarked modestly. “But it’s business as usual. Of course, we miss Jamal, but some shots just found the net tonight.”
Maintaining a lead throughout the game, Denver faced a late scare as Miami closed the gap to 99-97 in the fourth quarter after a bank shot by Jimmy Butler. Nikola Jokic’s two free throws sealed the win, preserving the Nuggets’ lead.
Jokic, with 18 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists, broke his streak of four consecutive triple-doubles. He played a pivotal role in the final moments, scoring eight of Denver’s 11 points in the fourth quarter.
“Tonight had a playoff intensity,” Porter observed. “Miami plays with incredible tenacity.”
This matchup marked the first encounter between the Heat and Nuggets since their NBA Finals clash last June, where the Nuggets secured their maiden NBA title with a five-game victory over Miami.
Murray’s departure just before halftime due to an ankle sprain further tested Denver’s resolve. Murray, who finished with six points, had been dealing with various injuries throughout the season.
Coach Michael Malone commended Murray’s cautious approach, stating, “It’s wise for him to prioritize caution at this point.”
Filling in for Murray, Denver rotated Reggie Jackson, Christian Braun, and Jokic at point guard to counter Miami’s resilience. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Aaron Gordon added 18 and 16 points, respectively, as the Nuggets navigated a second consecutive home game.
“They’re relentless and resilient,” Jokic praised Miami. “They’re a tough team to play against.”
For the Heat, Bam Adebayo recorded 22 points, while Butler contributed 21 points. Despite missing key players like Kevin Love, Tyler Herro, and Josh Richardson due to injuries, Miami displayed resilience.
Miami coach Erik Spoelstra commended his team’s grit, stating, “Our players showed resilience despite offensive struggles, credit to Denver’s defense.”
Miami, concluding a successful road trip with five wins out of six games, anticipates a rematch against Denver at home on March 13.
“We know our identity,” Butler affirmed. “As we approach the crucial stage of the season, we’ll stay strong.”
The Nuggets honored suspended Heat player Thomas Bryant in a pregame ring ceremony. Bryant, part of Denver’s championship-winning team last season, received his ring before promptly leaving the arena. The NBA granted an exception for Bryant to attend the game, considering it was Miami’s sole visit to Denver. Bryant had just completed a three-game suspension for his involvement in an altercation during a previous Heat game against New Orleans.
UP NEXT:
Heat: Host Utah on Saturday night.
Nuggets: Visit Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday night.
