CLEVELAND, OH -- The Denver Nuggets came into Friday night's game averaging 31 points in the opening quarter of their games, as they looked to continue their hot starts. Denver jumped out to a double digit lead in the opening minutes of the quarter, before finishing the first quarter with a 33-23 lead. Denver kept the foot on the gas pedal for the entirety of the game, cruising to a 120-103 win over the Cavaliers to snap a two game skid.
Jamal Murray put on a shooting clinic on what was a career night for the Denver point guard. Murray knocked down 21 of 25 shots, including 8 of 10 from beyond the arc on his way to a new career high 50 points. Nikola Jokic, who will be starting for the Western Conference in the upcoming All-Star Game, recorded a triple double with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists. Michael Porter Jr, first year guard out of Missouri, scored 22 points shooting 50% from the field.
The Cleveland Cavaliers struggled to find an offensive rhythm against Denver's zone defense, turning the ball over 18 times resulting in 18 points. Jarrett Allen played terrific in Cleveland's two man game on the court, shooting an efficient 8 for 9 in route to a 20 point snd 10 rebound night. Collin Sexton led all Cavaliers in scoring with 23 points.
Cleveland will look to bring their 9-game losing streak to a halt on Sunday when they host the Oklahoma City Thunder. Tip-off on Sunday's game is set for 7:00 pm ET at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio. Check out highlights from tonight's game below!