Cavaliers vs Nuggets: Score, Highlights & Recap | NBA Game

Cleveland secured a hard-fought 119-117 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Monday night, fueled by a late rally and clutch performance from Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell finished with 32 points, sealing the win with two free throws with just 0.9 seconds remaining after a game-tying three-pointer by James Harden.

A New Look for Cleveland

The Cavaliers are integrating James Harden into their lineup. In his second game with Cleveland, Harden contributed 22 points and 10 rebounds, following a 23-point debut three nights prior. He was acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers on February 4.

Jokic’s Near Triple-Double

Despite the loss, Nikola Jokic delivered a strong performance for Denver, recording 22 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists – his 183rd career triple-double. This came just two nights after Jokic surpassed Oscar Robertson for second place in all-time career triple-doubles. However, his potential game-winning three-point attempt at the buzzer fell short.

Did You Know? Monday night marked the 14th time James Harden has faced Denver since the beginning of the 2024-25 season, including a seven-game playoff series last year.

The Nuggets had built an 11-point lead, but a determined Cleveland rally, sparked by Harden, narrowed the gap to 106-104. Denver briefly extended their lead with baskets from Christian Braun and Jonas Valanciunas, but the Cavaliers continued to fight back.

Mitchell Seals the Victory

A key alley-oop dunk from Jarrett Allen, who finished with 22 points and 13 rebounds, brought Cleveland within one point. After Jokic responded with a hook shot, Harden connected on a step-back three-pointer to tie the game at 117 with 32 seconds left. A missed shot by Tim Hardaway and a foul on Mitchell allowed the Cavaliers star to calmly sink the winning free throws.

Expert Insight: The Cavaliers’ ability to overcome an 11-point deficit demonstrates a resilience that could prove crucial as they navigate the remainder of the season and potentially contend in the playoffs. Integrating a player like Harden requires adjustments, and this win suggests they are beginning to find a rhythm.

Donovan Mitchell also added 10 assists, contributing to the Cavaliers’ eighth win in their last nine games. Jamal Murray finished with 17 points and 11 assists for the Nuggets, who have now lost four of their last five contests.

Looking Ahead

The Cavaliers will next host the Wizards on Wednesday night. The Nuggets will return home to face the Grizzlies on the same night. Denver may look to regain their form after this close loss, while Cleveland could build on this momentum.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Donovan Mitchell’s final stat line?

Donovan Mitchell scored 32 points and added 10 assists for the Cavaliers.

How did James Harden perform in his second game with Cleveland?

James Harden finished with 22 points and 10 rebounds.

What was Nikola Jokic’s stat line in the game?

Nikola Jokic recorded 22 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists.

How important is team resilience in a competitive league like the NBA?