The Denver Nuggets lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers 119-117. Denver led 100-90 with just over ten minutes remaining. Nikola Jokic had seven turnovers. The NBA’s Last Two Minute Report confirmed a missed call. The Nuggets have lost four of their last five games.
Jokic had seven turnovers
Nikola Jokic finished with seven turnovers against Cleveland. One came on a spin move with the game tied that led to James Harden’s game-tying three-pointer. Jokic said he lost the ball during the move. Donovan Mitchell hit the game-winning free throws with 0.9 seconds left. Denver led by 11 in the fourth quarter and couldn’t hold it.
The NBA confirmed a missed three-second violation
The NBA’s Last Two Minute Report said Jaylon Tyson should have been called for a three-second violation during a late Jokic turnover. The call was missed. The same report said the no-call on Harden’s three-pointer was correct — Harden extended his leg to create contact, which doesn’t warrant a foul. One call went against Denver. Another was ruled correctly. The Nuggets still lost by two.
Denver is considering Lonzo Ball
The Nuggets are under the luxury tax line and have one open roster spot. Lonzo Ball has been mentioned as a potential addition. Ball’s playmaking would address a need, but his injury history is extensive. Denver’s bench struggled against Cleveland. Whether Ball or another buyout candidate fills the spot, the front office is looking for help.
The Nuggets have lost four of five
Denver has dropped four of its last five games. Jokic noted the Nuggets have faced top teams during the stretch. Jamal Murray and Jokic are still the core. The issue is finishing games — leads have disappeared late. Competing with elite teams isn’t the same as beating them. The Nuggets have done one but not the other recently.