The Denver Nuggets staged a remarkable comeback on December 5, 2023, defeating the Atlanta Hawks 134-133 in a thrilling game at State Farm Arena. Trailing by as many as 23 points, the Nuggets showcased their resilience and fighting spirit, turning what appeared to be a lopsided contest into a memorable victory.
Despite a dominant first half from the Hawks, particularly from Jalen Johnson, who achieved a historic triple-double by halftime, the Nuggets refused to back down. Johnson’s performance, which included 21 points, 18 rebounds, and 16 assists, marked the first time in the play-by-play era that a Hawks player accomplished this feat. The Hawks dominated early, hitting 13 of their first 15 shots, establishing a commanding lead that left many spectators believing the game was already decided.
Nikola Jokic was the catalyst for Denver’s resurgence, delivering a stunning performance with 40 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. With the game hanging in the balance, Jokic’s relentless determination shone through as he scored critical points, including the go-ahead free throw with just 15 seconds remaining. His ability to maintain composure under pressure proved vital in a game that felt more like a masterclass in perseverance than a traditional basketball contest.
Fourth Quarter Surge
The defining moment of the game came during the fourth quarter, when the Nuggets launched a 23-3 run that quickly erased their deficit. Remarkably, this impressive streak occurred while Jokic was on the bench, highlighting the depth of the Denver roster. Contributions from players like Tim Hardaway Jr., who scored 17 points off the bench, and Bruce Brown, who added 13 points, were instrumental in shifting the momentum back to the Nuggets.
As the Hawks struggled to regain their rhythm, the Denver bench stepped up in a way that transformed the game. Cam Johnson also played a key role, sinking three pivotal three-pointers during this crucial stretch. The once-confident Hawks suddenly found themselves on the back foot, unable to respond to the surge from the Nuggets.
Murray’s Defensive Play
Alongside Jokic’s scoring, Jamal Murray played a vital role, contributing 23 points and 12 assists. However, it was his defensive effort that made the difference in the closing moments. With just seconds left on the clock and the Hawks seeking a winning shot, Murray made a crucial block against Nickeil Alexander-Walker, preventing a potential game-winning three-pointer. This defensive play underscored the importance of effort and teamwork, illustrating why the Nuggets are considered a formidable opponent.
While the Hawks had notable performances, including Alexander-Walker‘s 30 points and Kristaps Porzingis‘s 25 points, their inability to close out the game revealed vulnerabilities. The Nuggets’ victory not only reflects their tenacity but also reinforces their identity as a team that thrives under pressure.
This win carries significant implications for Denver as they navigate the challenges of the NBA season. While a single victory in December might seem trivial in the grand context of an 82-game schedule, it serves as a powerful reminder of their character and determination. The ability to overcome a 23-point deficit sends a strong message to the rest of the league: the Nuggets are a team that cannot be easily defeated.
As the final buzzer sounded, the Nuggets walked off the court exhausted but triumphant, embodying the belief that they can conquer any challenge that comes their way. In a season filled with ups and downs, this thrilling win against the Hawks will undoubtedly resonate as a testament to their resilience and fighting spirit.
