Denver NuggetsOpen full analysis
Chicago BullsOpen full analysis
The Denver Nuggets defeated the Chicago Bulls 136–120 on February 7 at the United Center, surpassing the Vegas total of 235.5 points combined. Jamal Murray led Denver with 28 points, while T. Hardaway Jr. added 23 in a balanced offensive attack that saw the Nuggets shoot 57.6 percent from the field and connect on 16 three-pointers. Chicago's Matas Buzelis paced the Bulls with 21 points, and Collin Sexton contributed 17, but the home team managed only a 44.6 field-goal percentage and committed 16 turnovers. Denver's offensive efficiency of 134.0 overwhelmed Chicago's defense, which posted a 134.0 defensive rating; the Nuggets' fourth-quarter surge of 39 points proved decisive after the Bulls scored just 16 in the final frame. Denver also dominated the assist battle with 37 to Chicago's 25, and controlled the boards with 41 rebounds to 37. The loss drops Chicago further back in the Eastern Conference playoff picture, while Denver's road efficiency reinforces their standing among Western Conference contenders.
