On Christmas Day, the Golden State Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, saw their impressive five-game winning streak come to an end at the hands of the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets. The game unfolded at the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, where the Nuggets secured a 120-114 victory. 

Despite holding a narrow one-point lead at halftime, the Warriors struggled in the second half, ultimately succumbing to a six-point defeat. Following the game, Stephen Curry, a four-time NBA champion, voiced concerns about the officiating, alleging an imbalance and suggesting that referees were influenced by players attempting to exaggerate calls.

“It does cater to the guys that can sells calls,” said Curry right after the game. “There’s physicality, its tough because it’s inconsistent at times on either side just what is the tone of the game and from game to game, it changes.”

Conversely, the Denver Nuggets demonstrated their status as one of the premier teams in the NBA Western Conference. Jamal Murray spearheaded the team’s effort, contributing 28 points, along with five rebounds, three assists, two steals, and an impressive 55% shooting accuracy on 18 attempts.

Despite facing challenges in field goal shooting, former league MVP Nikola Jokic compensated by displaying flawless accuracy from the free-throw line, making all 18 of his attempts. The Serbian center concluded the game with a notable stat line of 26 points, 14 rebounds, and eight assists.