Washington, DC — Peyton Watson delivered the best performance of his young career Thursday night, erupting for a career-high 35 points as the depleted Denver Nuggets pulled away late to defeat the Washington Wizards 107–97.
Playing without reigning MVP Nikola Jokić for the 13th straight game due to a hyperextended left knee, Denver leaned heavily on Watson’s scoring and energy to avoid its first three-game skid of the season. Jamal Murray chipped in 24 points, while Jonas Valančiūnas scored 16 in his return after missing 11 games with a strained calf. Aaron Gordon also finished with 16 points.
The Wizards kept the game competitive despite struggling to find offensive consistency. Kyshawn George posted a strong double-double with 20 points and 12 rebounds, and Tre Johnson added 19 points. Still, Washington’s shooting woes proved costly, as the team connected on just 38.1 percent from the floor—its lowest mark of the season.
Denver maintained control for most of the second half, but Washington briefly threatened in the fourth quarter. Alex Sarr’s free throw tied the game at 83 early in the final period, igniting hope for the home crowd. That momentum was short-lived.
The Nuggets quickly answered with a decisive 9–0 run, highlighted by Watson knocking down a three-pointer and following it with a jumper. The surge reestablished Denver’s cushion and shifted the game firmly back in the visitors’ favor.
Watson later sealed his career night at the free-throw line with 1:50 remaining, surpassing his previous high of 32 points. He did so after shaking off an awkward fall earlier in the quarter on a contested dunk attempt, underscoring his resilience and poise.
Washington never regained the lead after halftime and dropped its eighth straight game, falling to 10–33 on the season. The loss marked the Wizards’ 14th defeat in a prolonged skid dating back to late October.
Denver improved with the win and now heads to Milwaukee for a Friday night matchup, while Washington continues its road trip Saturday in Charlotte.
