On Monday night in Denver, the Cleveland Cavaliers edged the Denver Nuggets 119-117, propelled by James Harden’s clutch 3-pointer that tied the game and Donovan Mitchell’s decisive free throws with less than a second remaining. Harden, who joined the Cavaliers just days earlier, played a pivotal role in Cleveland’s comeback, demonstrating why his addition is significant for the team’s success.
Key Performances Fuel Intense Battle
James Harden contributed 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in his second outing for Cleveland after being acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers on February 4. His prior debut three nights earlier included a 23-point effort, signaling his immediate impact.
Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 32 points and added 10 assists, including the game-winning free throws with 0.9 seconds left. Jarrett Allen also delivered a strong performance, tallying 22 points and 13 rebounds. The Cavaliers overcame an 11-point deficit late in the game, sparked by Mitchell’s alley-oop to Allen and Harden’s clutch step-back three-pointer that tied the score at 117 with just over half a minute to play.
For Denver, Nikola Jokic recorded a triple-double with 22 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists. Recently passing Oscar Robertson for second place in career triple-doubles, Jokic’s 183rd triple-double was notable, although he missed a buzzer-beating three-point attempt that could have won the game. Jamal Murray added 17 points and 11 assists, while Christian Braun, returning from injury, made a critical 3-pointer during the Nuggets’ late stretch.
Game Context and Strategic Highlights
This matchup marked Harden’s 14th appearance against Denver since the 2024-25 season began, including their intense seven-game first-round playoff series last season. The Nuggets’ coach David Adelman acknowledged Harden’s consistent excellence ahead of the game:
“Even if you’re prepared for (Harden), his ability to go get 28 and 12, it’s historical,”
David Adelman, Nuggets coach
Despite Cleveland narrowing Denver’s lead to 106-104, the Nuggets responded with crucial plays by Braun and Jonas Valanciunas, extending the advantage to 111-104. However, the Cavaliers mounted a final push with Mitchell’s playmaking and Harden’s scoring, capitalizing on missed opportunities by Tim Hardaway and fouls leading to Mitchell’s game-winning free throws.
Implications for Both Teams Moving Forward
This victory extends the Cavaliers’ winning streak to eight in their last nine games, reflecting growing momentum. Conversely, the Nuggets have stumbled, losing four of their previous five matchups. Cleveland’s next game will be a home contest against the Washington Wizards on Wednesday, while Denver prepares to face the Memphis Grizzlies the same evening.
