An epic duel between the Denver Nuggets and Toronto Raptors ended in a 121-119 victory for the Nuggets. Nikola Jokic and the revelation Dick Gradey shone in this NBA shock. Dive into the heart of this thrilling encounter where each possession…
On the night of November 5, 2024, basketball fans were held in suspense by an epic duel between the Denver Nuggets and the Toronto Raptors. This NBA regular season game turned out to be a true thriller, with the Nuggets ultimately pulling out a close 121-119 victory.
Jokic and Gradey, the heroes of the evening on the Nuggets side
If Denver won, it was largely thanks to the XXL performances of its shock duo. The reigning MVP Nikola Jokic once again proved that he is one of the very best players in the league. With 28 points, 14 rebounds and 13 assists, the Serbian achieved yet another triple-double, leading his team to victory.
But the revelation of the evening is called Gradey Dick. The young fullback from Denver, drafted recently, asserts himself game after game as one of the most promising rookies. With 26 points including several clutch shots in money time, Dick was decisive.
Gradey was incredible tonight. For a rookie, he shows a disconcerting maturity in hot moments. He has a bright future ahead of him.
Michael Malone, Nuggets coach, in post-match press conference.
The Raptors were not unworthy
Despite the defeat, Toronto put up a good fight. Carried by a great Jakob Poeltl (24 points, 11 rebounds), the Raptors were on par with Denver for a large part of the meeting. Lieutenants Gradey Dick (26 points) and RJ Barrett (16 points, 10 assists) also responded.
But it was in the last minutes that everything was decided. Trailing by 9 points with 3 minutes to go, the Raptors came back to 2 points thanks in particular to a winning shot from Dick. Unfortunately, the Canadians missed their last possession and let the victory slip away.
It's frustrating to come so close. We showed some great things but we lacked that little something in the important moments. You have to remember the positive and keep working.
Gradey Dick, Raptors guard, speaking to a Canadian channel.
Lessons from the meeting
Beyond the result, this Denver-Toronto was rich in lessons:
- The Nuggets confirm their status as title contenders. This squad is built to play leading roles.
- Nikola Jokic is a more than credible candidate for a 3rd consecutive MVP title. Its impact is just monstrous.
- Gradey Dick is establishing himself as one of the most promising young players in the league. Denver probably made a wonderful pick in the draft.
- The Raptors have talent and potential. If they gain consistency, they can hope for a good season.
This promises a very exciting 2024-2025 NBA season. Between teams aiming for the title like Denver and hungry young guns like Gradey Dick's Raptors, the spectacle should be there. NBA fans have reason to rejoice!
