The Utah Jazz defeated the Denver Nuggets by a score of 106-96 on Wednesday at Vivint Smart Home Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Nuggets had a solid preseason but they were very sloppy in their opening game, shooting only 46.8 percent from the field, 48.1 percent on three-pointers, and 91.7 percent from the Free Throw Line. Rudy Gobert had a huge impact on the game, scoring 18 points, dishing out one assist, and grabbing 10 rebounds in 35 minutes.
Nikola Jokic records solid all-around game
Nikola Jokic had a solid all-around game for the Denver Nuggets.
He contributed 7 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists in 36 minutes. Jokic had a hard time making shots against the Jazz -- he was only 3-of-10 from the field and 1-of-4 from beyond the arc. Nikola Jokic is slowly becoming an all-star forward, he not only dominates the paint but he also passes the ball very well. This was not a good night for Jokic but Denver fans can still count on Jokic to contribute every game. He will need to step up in order for the Nuggets to stay in playoff contention.
Harris and Barton hit six threes
Despite the loss, Gary Harris and Will Barton shot the ball well against the Utah Jazz. Garry Harris was able to contribute 14 points, five rebounds, one steal and three assists in 36 minutes.
He shot 46.2 percent from the field and 100 percent from the three-point line.
Will Barton also had an incredible shooting night. He contributed 23 points, six rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block. He shot 57.1 percent from the field, 75 percent from beyond the arc, and 100 percent from the free throw line. Will Barton and Gary Harris will have to keep on knocking down shots in order for the Nuggets to win games in the west.
Joe Ingles does a little bit of everything
Joe Ingles was able to contribute on all areas of the court for the Utah Jazz. He contributed 11 points, five rebounds, six assists, and two steals in 33 minutes. He went 4-of-6 from the field and 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. Joe Ingles has become a great role player for the Jazz as he continues to knock down those three-pointers and be active in other areas too.
Ricky Rubio continues to impress
Ricky Rubio played another solid game for the Utah Jazz. He contributed nine points, five rebounds, 10 assists, and two steals in 32 minutes. Rubio was only 3-of-9 from the field, 1-of-5 from beyond the arc, and 2-of-3 from the free throw line. Ricky Rubio has been great so far, facilitating and scoring points to fill the void Hayward left when he departed for Boston.
