Jokic’s endless brilliance fuels late Denver surge

Denver appeared in full control early, racing to a double‑digit lead behind sharp execution and quick tempo. Yet Utah refused to fold, capitalizing on turnovers and raising their defensive pressure to erase the gap by halftime, resetting the contest at 62-62. After the break, the Jazz struck with a blistering offensive stretch, punishing Denver’s mistakes in transition and stretching the margin to fourteen, with Kyle Filipowski orchestrating confidently while the Nuggets struggled to contain Utah’s rhythm.

Nikola Jokic, however, remained relentless, stacking points, rebounds and assists to keep Denver afloat, even drilling a deep buzzer-beater that still left the hosts trailing 98-105. The final quarter shifted dramatically: Jokic attacked inside, Tim Hardaway Jr. added key perimeter shots, and Denver clawed back. Ace Bailey briefly steadied Utah, but Cam Johnson’s triples flipped momentum for good. Jamal Murray then delivered the dagger from long range, sealing a composed Denver comeback.