In a matchup between two teams now in the first place, the Nuggets emerged victorious after defeating the Bucks with relative ease by scoring 129-106.
Another MVP performance was turned in by Nikola Jokic, who scored 31 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, while Jamal Murray was just as effective, scoring 26 points and dishing out nine assists.
With a record of 50-24, Denver has a commanding lead over the rest of the Western Conference, which is currently vying for postseason berths.
Giannis Antetokounmpo was the one who carried the load for Milwaukee, scoring 31 points, grabbing nine rebounds, dishing out four assists, and stealing four balls. Unfortunately, the previous Most Valuable Player could only cut seven points in the second half of the game, which proved decisive. In the final two periods of play, the Nuggets outscored the Bucks by a score of 66-40.
Despite the defeat, the Bucks continue to lead the Eastern Conference and have the best record in league with 53-21.
The Pelicans were able to clinch their spot in the postseason courtesy of the one-two punch of Brandon Ingram and Trey Murphy III. This victory was extremely important for the Pelicans. In the win over the Clippers, both players finished with 32 points. Ingram also threw up 13 assists in addition to his point total, but Murphy’s outstanding shooting leaped off the stat sheet first. Ingram led the team in points and assists. He lit the net on fire and made 10 of his 12 attempts from beyond the arc.
Jaren Jackson Jr. appeared on NBA TV to talk about his play this season and the Grizzlies’ hopes of winning the title. However, he also took the time to talk about the touching jersey exchange that he had with his father.
