Key Takeaways:
- Chicago Bulls defeated the Denver Nuggets 130-127, halting a five-game skid
- Kevin Huerter and Nikola Vucevic each hit crucial three-pointers in the closing moments, while Nikola Jokic recorded a triple-double for Denver
- Chicago’s bench outscored Denver’s 66-9 as the Nuggets suffered their first home loss of the season
Late-Game Heroics Secure Chicago’s Win
The Chicago Bulls emerged with a thrilling 130-127 win over the Denver Nuggets on Monday night, overcoming multiple Denver rallies and clutch performances at Ball Arena. Despite relinquishing an early 18-point lead as well as a 13-point advantage in the final quarter, Chicago managed to come through in the dying moments with pivotal three-pointers.
BULLS WIN IN DENVER. pic.twitter.com/2gwgTaWGPP
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) November 18, 2025
Kevin Huerter knocked down a go-ahead triple with 1 minute 25 seconds remaining. Following that, Nikola Vucevic extended the lead by connecting on another three-pointer with 33 seconds left. The Nuggets had a chance to force overtime, but Nikola Jokic’s buzzer-beater failed to drop, sealing Chicago’s victory.
Bench Depth and Individual Performances
Ayo Dosunmu and Josh Giddey spearheaded the Bulls’ balanced attack, both finishing with 21 points. Giddey also contributed 14 rebounds. Chicago had six players reach double figures in scoring and benefitted from phenomenal bench production, outscoring Denver’s reserves 66-9.
Despite coming off a strenuous 150-147 double-overtime loss in Utah the night before, the Bulls displayed remarkable resilience at altitude in Denver.
Jokic’s Triple-Double and Nuggets’ Streak Ends
Nikola Jokic delivered his eighth triple-double of the season, totalling 36 points, 18 rebounds, and 13 assists. Notably, he was just one assist shy of a triple-double by halftime. Jamal Murray added 34 points, erupting for 18 in the fourth quarter, while Aaron Gordon posted 24. Nevertheless, the Nuggets saw their seven-game winning run snapped and suffered their first defeat at home in the campaign.
Denver were again without shooting guard Christian Braun, who remains sidelined with a left ankle issue.
Key Game Statistics
| Team | Points | Top Scorer | Rebounds Leader | Assists Leader | Bench Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bulls | 130 | Ayo Dosunmu/Josh Giddey (21) | Josh Giddey (14) | Josh Giddey/Nikola Vucevic (6) | 66 |
| Denver Nuggets | 127 | Nikola Jokic (36) | Nikola Jokic (18) | Nikola Jokic (13) | 9 |
Injury Updates and Upcoming Fixtures
The Bulls opted to rest Coby White due to a strained right calf after his 30-minute, 27-point outing against Utah. For the Nuggets, Christian Braun’s absence through a left ankle injury continued.
Looking ahead, Chicago will round out their four-game road trip on Wednesday against the Portland Trail Blazers. Denver, meanwhile, commence a two-game road swing the same day with a match-up at New Orleans.
