The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Denver Nuggets, 113-101, at at Chesapeake Energy Arena on Friday night.

The Thunder (34-22) struck a dominant tone early, as they outscored the Nuggets (38-18) by a 27-17 score in the first quarter. However, Denver came right back to eliminate its deficit in the second, leading to a 48-48 deadlock at halftime. The game was still just as close heading into the final period, when Oklahoma City went on an 11-4 run over the first 2:06 to gain the separation it would need for the eventual double-digit home win.

Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 32 points, adding seven rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block. Jamal Murray collected 21 points, six boards, four assists, one steal and one block. Will Barton registered 16 points, nine rebounds, five assists and one steal. Gary Harris produced just seven points on 1-for-7 shooting.

Chris Paul paced the Thunder with 29 points, supplementing them with four rebounds and two assists. Steven Adams contributed a 19-point, 17-rebound double-double that also included two assists, four steals and two blocks. Danilo Gallinari supplied 15 points, three rebounds, two assists and one steal. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 11 points, nine rebounds, nine assists and one block. Luguentz Dort and Dennis Schroder also poured in 11 points apiece, with Schroder also posting five rebounds.

The Nuggets head back home and take on the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday evening, while the Thunder remains home and takes the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night as well.