Jokic’s 35th Triple-Double Headlines Nuggets’ 128-112 Triumph Over Trail Blazers

Key Takeaways:

• Nikola Jokic secured his 35th triple-double of the season, finishing with 22 points, 14 rebounds and 14 assists
• Peyton Watson returned from a hamstring injury, contributing 14 points in under 20 minutes for Denver
• The Nuggets halted Portland’s three-game road winning streak with the 128-112 victory

Match Overview

Nikola Jokic delivered a masterclass with his 35th triple-double of the campaign, propelling the Denver Nuggets to a comprehensive 128-112 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday in Denver. Jokic tallied 22 points, 14 rebounds, and 14 assists, while Jamal Murray added 22 points for the hosts. The fixture also marked the return of Peyton Watson, who had been out of action since 4 February due to a hamstring issue. Watson contributed 14 points over just under 20 minutes as part of a balanced Denver offence which saw seven players hit double figures. Cam Johnson added 19 points as the Nuggets ended Portland’s three-game winning streak, an impressive run that had all come away from home.

No Sunday Scaries today 🙂‍↔️#MileHighBasketball pic.twitter.com/VPsS3BP0gU

— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) March 22, 2026

Blazers’ Effort and Standout Performers

Deni Avdija emerged as Portland’s top scorer with 23 points, closely followed by Donovan Clingan’s 18. The Trail Blazers, closing the curtain on a five-game road trip, failed to hold a single lead during the contest. Despite their promising start, with both sides demonstrating strong shooting early on, Portland were unable to match Denver’s consistency as the game progressed.

Fireworks to Start, Nuggets Pull Away

Both teams began the matinee in electric form, each converting seven of their first ten attempts from three-point range and shooting above 70% in the opening stretch. Murray and Johnson each knocked down four three-pointers before half-time for Denver, while Clingan matched that total for Portland. At the interval, Denver held a 75-69 advantage.

The Nuggets seized control with an 11-0 burst in the third quarter, featuring consecutive threes from Jokic, Aaron Gordon (who contributed 12 points), and Johnson, to stretch the margin to 88-74 midway through the period. Jokic committed five turnovers – half as many as his total in the previous defeat to Memphis on Wednesday night.

Player Statistics

Looking Ahead

• The Trail Blazers will return home to play the Brooklyn Nets on Monday night.
• The Nuggets are set to travel for an away fixture against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night.