Fri Dec 20 04:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Nuggets Edge Kings in Thrilling 130-129 Finish

**SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) —** The Denver Nuggets snatched a dramatic 130-129 victory over the Sacramento Kings Monday night, ending Sacramento’s three-game winning streak in a back-and-forth contest decided in the final seconds.

Jamal Murray’s go-ahead jumper with 8.6 seconds left sealed the win for Denver, overcoming a 10-point deficit with just four minutes remaining in the game. The Nuggets unleashed a 14-3 run to fuel their comeback, trading the lead with the Kings seven times in the final 75 seconds. DeMar DeRozan’s baseline dunk briefly put Sacramento ahead before Murray’s decisive shot. DeRozan’s final attempt fell short, securing the win for Denver.

Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with his NBA-leading 10th triple-double of the season, posting 20 points, 14 rebounds, and 13 assists. Murray contributed 28 points, while Russell Westbrook, filling in effectively for the injured Christian Braun, added 18 points, nine rebounds, and 10 assists. Denver dominated inside, scoring 76 points in the paint—a significant advantage over Sacramento’s season average.

The Kings, despite a strong second-half performance, were led by Domantas Sabonis’ 28 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists, and De’Aaron Fox’s 29 points and seven assists. Malik Monk also contributed 25 points for Sacramento. Despite a sluggish start, where they trailed 41-21 after the first quarter, the Kings showcased improved energy in the second half, but ultimately fell short against Denver’s late-game surge.

Both teams face crucial matchups on Thursday: The Nuggets will visit the Portland Trail Blazers, while the Kings host the Los Angeles Lakers.

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