Nuggets defeat Hawks 129-122, snap three-game losing streak

In the Hawks' fourth consecutive loss, Bogdan Bogdanovic shone brightly, achieving career highs with 40 points and sinking 10 3-pointers. His remarkable performance wasn’t enough as the defending NBA champion Nuggets managed to secure the win despite Bogdanovic's late surge of three 3-pointers in the final minutes.

Even though the Hawks rallied and narrowed the gap to 126-122 in the last minute, Nikola Jokic, acknowledging the Hawks' efforts, remarked that the win was crucial and praised his team for clutch defensive stops.

Jokic expressed happiness seeing Bogdanovic healthy and free of knee injuries, reminiscing about their days as teammates in the Serbian national team during the 2016 Olympics and 2019 FIBA World Cup. He recalled Bogdanovic's prior standout performances and noted how smoothly he moved without any discomfort this time.

Denver's rookie Julian Strawther also made an impact, scoring a career-high 22 points, supported by his six 3-pointers and an impressive five steals. Aaron Gordon contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds to the Nuggets' victory.

However, injuries played a role as Jamal Murray rolled his left ankle in the opening quarter but returned to finish the game despite already nursing a sore right ankle. On the Hawks' side, Trae Young got ejected after receiving two technical fouls in the third quarter, adding to Atlanta's challenges.

Despite the setbacks, Hawks coach Quin Snyder praised his team’s resilience in not succumbing to adversity and staying focused on executing their game plan.

Nikola Jokic, who struggled in his previous games, bounced back, shooting 9 of 13 from the field and contributing across the board with eight rebounds and eight assists.

Injury woes persisted for the Hawks with Jalen Johnson missing his seventh consecutive game due to a fractured left wrist, while De'Andre Hunter sat out due to soreness in his right quad. Garrison Mathews stepped in for Hunter, marking his first start of the season.

Snyder highlighted the team's adaptability, aiming to achieve their goals through different avenues. Early in the game, the Hawks relied on the long-range shooting of Bogdanovic and Dejounte Murray, allowing them to take a commanding lead in the first quarter.

Looking ahead, the Nuggets face Chicago, while the Hawks are scheduled to play Toronto in their next games.