In a game filled with drama and momentum swings, Anfernee Simons delivered a highlight-reel moment, hitting a driving layup at the buzzer to lift the Portland Trail Blazers to a 122-120 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night.
Simons capped off a stellar performance with 28 points and 10 assists, putting an exclamation point on a much-needed win for Portland, snapping their six-game losing streak.
Simons’ game-winner came after driving past Russell Westbrook in the closing seconds, lofting the ball high off the glass as time expired. The electrifying finish not only sealed the win but showcased Simons’ poise under pressure, igniting celebration in Portland’s Moda Center.
Shaedon Sharpe provided a crucial offensive boost with 27 points, while Deni Avdija added 19 points to complement the Blazers’ attack. Deandre Ayton returned to the lineup after missing two games due to illness, contributing 15 points and 13 rebounds in a solid performance. Portland’s balance on both ends of the floor played a pivotal role in their ability to fend off a late surge by Denver.
For the Nuggets, reigning MVP Nikola Jokic was his usual dominant self, leading all scorers with 34 points and adding eight assists. Jamal Murray recorded a double-double with 24 points and 10 assists, while Westbrook chipped in 19 points. Despite their firepower, Denver’s defensive lapses proved costly against a Portland team ranked near the bottom of the league in offensive efficiency.
The key moment of the game came in the final minute. Denver erased a 17-point deficit entering the fourth quarter and took a two-point lead on a Michael Porter Jr. dunk with under a minute to play. However, Portland responded with clutch free throws from Simons and Sharpe to regain the lead. Jokic tied the game with a layup at 16.8 seconds remaining, setting the stage for Simons’ dramatic heroics.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
Portland’s resilience was evident throughout the contest. Despite shooting a lower percentage from the field (46.4% compared to Denver’s 54%), the Blazers made up the difference with their aggressiveness at the free-throw line. Portland converted five more free throws than Denver and knocked down 16 three-pointers to the Nuggets’ 15, which proved to be the margin in this tightly contested game.
For Denver, the loss underscored ongoing defensive concerns. Facing one of the league’s least potent offenses, the Nuggets allowed Portland to dictate the pace and exploit mismatches. Their inability to contain Simons in critical moments ultimately cost them the game, despite their impressive offensive showing.
Deandre Ayton’s return was a significant factor for the Blazers. The center’s presence in the paint provided much-needed stability, while his rebounding helped Portland withstand Denver’s late-game rally. The Blazers also capitalized on their opportunities in transition, demonstrating an energy that had been missing during their recent losing streak.
Nuggets Consistency
The Nuggets now face questions about consistency, particularly on defense, as they continue their road trip. While Jokic and Murray provided their usual offensive brilliance, the supporting cast struggled to make a significant impact. Denver will need to tighten up defensively if they hope to avoid similar outcomes in close games.
Portland’s victory serves as a confidence boost for a team looking to turn their season around. Simons’ leadership and Sharpe’s scoring have become bright spots in an otherwise challenging campaign, while Ayton’s return adds a valuable dimension to their frontcourt.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets will travel to New Orleans on Sunday to face the Pelicans in what promises to be another test of their defensive resolve. Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers head to San Antonio on Saturday, aiming to build on the momentum of this thrilling victory.
This game showcased the unpredictable nature of the NBA, where even the league’s best teams can be caught off guard. For Simons and the Trail Blazers, it was a reminder of their potential, while the Nuggets were left with the sting of a missed opportunity in a game that slipped through their fingers at the buzzer.