Published: March 22, 2025
Portland, OR — In a pivotal Western Conference matchup, the Portland Trail Blazers surged past the Denver Nuggets with a commanding 128-109 victory at the Moda Center on March 21, 2025. The win bolsters Portland’s aspirations for a play-in tournament spot, while Denver grapples with challenges in the absence of their star center, Nikola Jokic.
Game Highlights
Deni Avdija delivered a standout performance, recording a season-high 36 points alongside eight rebounds and seven assists. Shaedon Sharpe contributed 23 points, and Dalano Banton added 19 points off the bench, showcasing Portland’s depth and resilience. The Trail Blazers dominated the fourth quarter, outscoring the Nuggets 40-27 to secure the win.
For Denver, Aaron Gordon led with 23 points, while Russell Westbrook added 18 points, four rebounds, and four assists. The Nuggets struggled defensively, particularly in containing dribble penetration, leading to numerous high-percentage shots for Portland.
Turning Point
Denver maintained a 59-54 lead at halftime and extended it to 67-55 early in the third quarter. However, Portland responded with a decisive 14-0 run, seizing a 69-67 advantage. A highlight of this stretch was Scoot Henderson’s emphatic putback dunk, igniting the home crowd and shifting the game’s momentum.
Impact of Nikola Jokic’s Absence
The Nuggets felt the absence of two-time MVP Nikola Jokic, sidelined due to an ankle injury. Without their central playmaker, Denver’s offense lacked cohesion, and their defensive shortcomings were magnified. This loss marks their second consecutive defeat, raising concerns as the postseason approaches.
Postgame Reactions
Nuggets’ head coach Michael Malone expressed frustration over the team’s defensive lapses, particularly their inability to contain Avdija’s drives to the basket. He emphasized the need for improved effort and focus, especially with Jokic’s uncertain return.
Conversely, Trail Blazers’ coach Chauncey Billups praised his squad’s resilience and adaptability, highlighting their collective effort in overcoming the absence of key players due to illness and injury. He noted that such performances underscore the team’s depth and determination.
Looking Ahead
The Trail Blazers, now riding a four-game winning streak, have positioned themselves firmly in the play-in race. Their recent performances reflect a team peaking at a crucial juncture, with contributions coming from both starters and bench players.
The Nuggets, currently holding the fourth seed in the Western Conference, must address their defensive vulnerabilities and find offensive rhythm without Jokic. Their upcoming games will be pivotal in maintaining their playoff positioning.
Featured Photo
*Deni Avdija drives to the basket during his season-high 36-point performance against the Denver Nuggets at the Moda Center on March 21, 2025.
