The Denver Nuggets leaned on late-game execution Saturday night, pulling away from the Washington Wizards for a 121-115 win at Ball Arena.
Jamal Murray delivered one of his most complete performances of the season, scoring 42 points on 15-of-24 shooting as he took control in the final minutes.
With the game tied at 110, Murray hit a three-pointer with 2:12 left, giving Denver a lead it wouldn’t relinquish.
He followed with a pull-up jumper and two free throws, closing the game on a personal 7-0 run that pushed the margin to 117-110.
Murray scored 16 of his points in the fourth quarter and finished the night with five 3-pointers and seven made free throws.
Denver earned the victory despite continuing to play without Nikola Jokic, who remains sidelined with a left knee contusion.
The Nuggets have adapted well without their center, winning their fourth straight game and six of their last seven overall.
Tim Hardaway Jr. provided a big boost off the bench, scoring a season-high 30 points on 10-of-18 shooting.
Peyton Watson added 21 points and provided energy on both ends as Denver kept its balance throughout the rotation.
The Wizards kept pressure on Denver for most of the night, led by strong perimeter shooting and aggressive offense.
Kyshawn George paced Washington with 29 points, continuing his strong streak on the road trip.
Khris Middleton and Alex Sarr each scored 16 points as the Wizards built a slim lead entering the fourth quarter.
Washington led 63-62 at halftime and had an 86-83 lead in the final period after controlling the pace in the third.
Denver responded with improved defensive pressure and timely shot making, shooting 53 percent from the floor.
The Nuggets connected on 14 three-pointers, chasing the Wizards from long range while winning the assist battle.
Washington dropped its sixth straight game, including all four games on its current road trip.
The loss pushed the Wizards to 10-30 as they struggled to close out games late despite competitive tensions.
Denver improved to 28-13 and remained firmly in the race at the top of the Western Conference standings.
The Nuggets host the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday night, who are looking to extend their winning streak.
Washington returns home Monday to take on the Los Angeles Clippers in the opener of another homestand.
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