The Denver Nuggets executed a stunning comeback against the Atlanta Hawks, winning 134-133 on December 6, 2023. Trailing by as much as 23 points, the Nuggets showcased their resilience and tenacity in the fourth quarter, ultimately claiming victory at the State Farm Arena.
Nikola Jokic delivered a standout performance, scoring 40 points, grabbing nine rebounds, and providing eight assists. His relentless drive and ability to perform under pressure were integral to the Nuggets’ victory. With just 15 seconds remaining, Jokic sank a crucial free throw, sealing the game and underscoring his reputation as a clutch player.
A Fourth Quarter Surge
The final quarter saw the Nuggets launch a remarkable 23-3 run, rapidly closing the gap and shifting the momentum. Remarkably, much of this scoring surge occurred while Jokic was on the bench. The second unit stepped up, with Tim Hardaway Jr. contributing 17 points, including four vital three-pointers.
The bench players not only kept the game competitive but also energized the team. Bruce Brown added 13 points and veteran Jonas Valanciunas fought hard in the paint. Meanwhile, Cam Johnson found his rhythm, hitting three pivotal three-pointers. This unexpected offensive explosion left the Hawks visibly shaken, a stark contrast to their strong first-half performance.
Historic Night for Jalen Johnson
Despite the loss, Jalen Johnson of the Hawks had a historic night, achieving a triple-double by halftime—the first such feat for a Hawks player in the play-by-play era. He finished the game with 21 points, 18 rebounds, and 16 assists. The Hawks started strong, hitting an impressive 13 of their first 15 shots, with Nickeil Alexander-Walker scoring 30 points and Kristaps Porzingis contributing 25 points.
However, the Nuggets demonstrated that basketball is a game of endurance, forcing the Hawks to maintain their level of play for the entire 48 minutes.
Murray’s Defensive Play
Alongside Jokic, Jamal Murray played a crucial role, scoring 23 points and providing 12 assists. His most critical contribution came defensively, however. In the final moments, with the Hawks looking to secure a victory, Murray made a crucial block on a three-point attempt by Alexander-Walker. This play, born from sheer determination, exemplified the grit required to turn a game around.
Significance of the Win
While a single victory in December may seem inconsequential in the broader context of the NBA season, this win holds substantial meaning for the Nuggets. Overcoming a significant deficit reinforces their identity as a resilient team capable of overcoming adversity.
As the players exited the court, exhausted yet victorious, the message was clear: the Nuggets are a team that refuses to be counted out. They have proven that they can rise to challenges, even when faced with formidable opponents, and this triumph against the Hawks serves as a testament to their championship potential.
