The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 140-108, at Ball Arena on Thursday.

While there were seven ties and three lead changes in the opening eight minutes, Denver never relinquished the lead after a 41-28 first quarter. In fact, they finished that opening frame on a 20-7 run and carried a 17-point lead into the half, while winning all four individual quarters by at least four points apiece. They led by at least 14 points for the entirety of the second half, getting their lead up to 36 points at times. Denver shot 63 percent from the field and 50 percent from three-point range while holding Portland to 45 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range. In addition, the Nuggets outscored the Trail Blazers in the paint, 58-46, and in bench points, 66-39.

The Trail Blazers (16-25) were led by Bem McLemore and his 18 points, four assists and two steals. Dennis Smith Jr accumulated 17 points, two rebounds and eight assists. Nassir Little totaled 14 points, four rebounds and two assists, while Jusuf Nurkic finished with 10 points, eight rebounds and six assists. C.J. Elleby led the bench with eight points, three rebounds and seven assists.

The Nuggets (21-19) were led by Will Barton, tallying 21 points, four rebounds and two assists. Nikola Jokic collected 20 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and two blocks. Jeff Green generated 19 points, five rebounds and three assists. Facundo Campazzo led the bench with 18 points, 12 assists and four steals, while Bones Hyland had 17 points, four rebounds and three assists.

Both teams return to action on Friday, with Portland remaining on the road to face the Washington Wizards and Denver staying home to play the Los Angeles Lakers.