Two Western Conference opponents at opposite ends of the standings meet in the Lone Star State, each eager for a crucial victory.
The Denver Nuggets go on the road, traveling to take on the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night in the NBA.
Denver comes in with momentum, having triumphed 100-88 over the Miami Heat in their previous meeting. Meanwhile, San Antonio suffered a narrow 103-101 loss to the Houston Rockets in their last meeting.
In the history of their regular-season meetings, the Spurs hold a commanding 122-78 advantage. However, the Nuggets took a 132-120 home win in their first meeting this season on Nov. 26, 2023.
Nuggets Want to Stay on Top
Denver looks to maintain its narrow lead in the fiercely contested Northwest Division. Riding a four-game winning streak and 10 wins in their last 11 games, the Nuggets boast a 46-20 record on the season.
Sitting atop the division, they cling to a precarious half-game lead over the Oklahoma City Thunder. They also lead the Western Conference by the same slim margin, with Oklahoma City nipping at their heels.
Holding a comfortable 7.5-game lead over the Phoenix Suns, Denver remains entrenched in a secure playoff spot.
In their recent win over Miami, the Nuggets showcased their offensive prowess, led by a 25-point performance from Michael Porter Jr. Denver used a 14-2 run in the first quarter to establish an early lead, ultimately sealing the victory with a dominant fourth-period display.
Shooting a respectable 48.8% from the field, including 11 of 33 from beyond the arc, they stifled Miami's offensive efforts with solid defense.
Nikola Jokic leads Denver's offensive charge, averaging 26 points, 12.3 rebounds and 9.2 assists per game this season.
Backed by Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon and a solid supporting cast, the Nuggets have a well-balanced offensive arsenal.
Coach Michael Malone's rotation strategy, using contributors such as Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Reggie Jackson, ensures depth and versatility.
As the Nuggets look for a win in San Antonio, their efficient pitching and defensive tenacity will be critical.
With a potent offensive lineup and a solid defensive unit, Denver enters the showdown poised to extend its winning streak and solidify its position at the top of the standings.
Takin' things to Texas
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📻 @AltitudeSR #MileHighBasketball pic.twitter.com/uZwA0lSQim- Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) March 15, 2024
Spurs Remain Stagnant
San Antonio suffered another setback by losing its second straight game and fourth in the last five games, succumbing to the Rockets at home Tuesday night in the second half of a back-to-back series.
With a season record of 14-52, the Spurs find themselves in last place in the Southwest Division, an overwhelming 25.5 games behind the division-leading New Orleans Pelicans. Their playoff hopes have been officially eliminated.
Facing Houston, San Antonio initially held an eight-point lead, which was cut to six at the end of the first quarter.
Despite holding a three-point lead at halftime, they found themselves with a five-point deficit at the end of the fourth quarter.
Although the Spurs briefly regained a three-point lead with 9:17 remaining, they faltered, surrendering a decisive 17-5 run that left them down by nine points with 2:46 left on the clock.
Despite a last-ditch effort to get within one, they failed to complete the comeback.
In the loss to Houston, San Antonio managed to shoot 47.6% from the field, including 11-of-36 from beyond the arc, and secured a narrow 42-36 rebounding advantage. Tyus Jones led the Spurs with 24 points and five assists.
Throughout the season, the Spurs have struggled offensively, ranking 22nd in offense with an average of 112.3 points per game.
They fare better in rebounding, ranking 18th with 43.5 boards per game, and excel in sharing the ball, ranking second in the league with 29.8 assists per game.
However, their defensive problems persist, as they rank 25th in defense, conceding an average of 119.9 points per game.
Rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama has been a bright spot for the Spurs, averaging 20.7 points, 10.3 rebounds and 3.4 blocks per game. Keldon Johnson contributes 16 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, while Devin Vassell, Zach Collins and Jeremy Sochan provide additional scoring options.
As they struggle to climb out of the basement in the Western Conference, the Spurs face an uphill battle, dealing with inconsistency on both ends of the court.
