Murray’s 11 Push Denver to a 31-19 First-Quarter Lead

The Nuggets closed the first quarter ahead 31-19, building a 12-point lead over the Trail Blazers. Jamal Murray led all scorers with 11 points in 9:14, making all five of his free throws. Nikola Jokic added 6 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists, while Deni Avdija paced Portland with 7 points. The early gap contrasts with Portland’s 4-1 start and No. 6 power-index rank against Denver’s 3-2 record and No. 15 ranking.