In an impressive display of teamwork and skill, the Denver Nuggets secured a commanding 133-111 victory over the Phoenix Suns in their home opener on October 28, 2023. Nikola Jokic recorded his second consecutive triple-double to kick off the season, finishing with 14 points, 15 assists, and 14 rebounds. The Nuggets showcased depth with seven players scoring in double figures, an essential factor in their successful start.
Jokic took a modest eight shots throughout the game, converting five of them. His first shot attempt was a free throw with just over four minutes remaining in the first half, illustrating his role as a facilitator rather than a primary scorer. Jamal Murray contributed significantly with 23 points, while Christian Braun and Aaron Gordon added 20 and 17 points, respectively. Gordon’s performance was notable as it followed his career-high 50 points just two nights prior.
The Suns struggled to find their rhythm, shooting only 43.2% from the field, compared to the Nuggets’ efficient 51.2%. Devin Booker led the Suns with 31 points, but the team’s overall performance fell short against a unified Nuggets squad.
Thunder Remain Unbeaten Behind Holmgren’s Strong Performance
In another matchup, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Atlanta Hawks 117-100, maintaining their unbeaten record. Rookie Chet Holmgren played through back soreness to deliver a standout performance, scoring a season-high 31 points along with 11 rebounds. His shooting accuracy was impressive, hitting 8 of 12 shots, including 6 of 8 from beyond the arc.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 30 points to the Thunder’s total, with 17 of those coming in a dominant third quarter. On the Hawks’ side, Nickeil Alexander-Walker led with 17 points, while Trae Young contributed 15 points and 10 assists, marking his league-best 22nd consecutive game with at least 15 points and five assists.
76ers Edge Hornets in Thrilling Finish
In a thrilling contest, the Philadelphia 76ers triumphed over the Charlotte Hornets 125-121. Quentin Grimes shone off the bench with 24 points, including a crucial three-pointer that broke a tie with just 15 seconds remaining. The 76ers, after trailing by 10 points in the final minutes, executed a 23-9 run to secure their second consecutive win.
Tyrese Maxey led Philadelphia with 28 points and nine assists, while Joel Embiid added 20 points. On the Hornets’ side, LaMelo Ball delivered a strong performance with 27 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, supported by Collin Sexton with 21 points.
Grizzlies Roll Past Pacers with Rookie’s Stellar Performance
The Memphis Grizzlies showcased their offensive prowess in a 128-103 victory against the Indiana Pacers. Rookie Cedric Coward emerged as a standout, scoring 27 points in just his third NBA game and hitting all six of his three-point attempts. The Grizzlies maintained control of the game with a mere four turnovers, a testament to their disciplined play.
In contrast, the Pacers struggled to find consistent scoring beyond Bennedict Mathurin, who finished with 26 points before exiting with a foot injury. Aaron Nesmith provided support with 15 points, but it was not enough to overcome the Grizzlies’ dominant performance.
As the NBA season unfolds, these early games highlight the impact of emerging talents and established stars alike, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead.