The Denver Nuggets faced a challenging matchup against the Phoenix Suns, resulting in a hard-fought game that ultimately ended in disappointment for the Nuggets. Despite a valiant effort to force overtime after trailing by 22 points in the second half, the Nuggets were unable to maintain their momentum and ultimately fell short.

Kevin Durant’s scoring barrage in overtime proved decisive for the Suns, as the Nuggets struggled to regain their rhythm after turning the ball over twice to start the extra period. Despite a late surge by the Nuggets, highlighted by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s three-pointer that briefly gave them the lead, Durant’s timely shot-making ensured the Suns’ victory.

Nikola Jokic, who had been posting impressive stat lines since the All-Star break, faced tough defense from Jusuf Nurkic and the Suns, limiting him to 25 points on inefficient shooting and committing seven turnovers. On the other end, Durant faced similar struggles with his shot but managed to contribute 35 points on 34 attempts.

Offense proved to be a challenge for both teams throughout the game, with the Nuggets enduring a six-minute scoring drought in the second quarter that allowed the Suns to build a significant lead. The Suns capitalized on this opportunity, going on a 19-1 run and outscoring the Nuggets by a considerable margin in the quarter.

Grayson Allen’s remarkable shooting performance, particularly from beyond the arc, further compounded the Nuggets’ defensive woes. Allen, known for his sharpshooting, made his first eight three-point attempts, capitalizing on clean looks and establishing a rhythm that proved difficult for the Nuggets to disrupt.

Despite their efforts to mount a comeback in the second half, the Nuggets were unable to contain Allen and the Suns’ offensive firepower, ultimately falling short in overtime. The loss snapped the Nuggets’ six-game winning streak and serves as a reminder of the challenges they face in competing against elite teams like the Suns.