The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 114-99, at Pepsi Center on Thursday.

A 33-26 first quarter really set the tone in this game, with Denver never surrendering the lead after that big start. In fact, the Nuggets held a double-digit lead for the final 10 minutes of action. The key for Denver was three-point shooting, hitting 18-of-36 while Portland connected on just 9-of-30. In addition, the Nuggets won the rebounding battle, 48-35, while shooting 48 percent from the field.

The Trail Blazers (10-16) were led by Hassan Whiteside, who tallied 33 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and four blocks on 15-of-21 from the field. Carmelo Anthony amassed 20 points, nine rebounds, two steals and two blocks. C.J, McCollum amassed 15 points, two rebounds and two assists while Damian Lillard generated 13 points and 11 assists.

The Nuggets (15-8) were led by Nikola Jokic, who accumulated 20 points, 11 rebounds and six assists. Will Barton totaled 15 points, 11 rebounds and four assists. Gary Harris accumulated 15 points, one rebound and two assists while Jamal Murray collected 12 points, six rebounds and three assists. Jerami Grant led the bench with 20 points and five boards.

On deck for Denver is a home matchup versus the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday. As for Portland, they travel to face the Phoenix Suns on Monday for their next fixture.