Game stream: Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns

Game stream: Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns

Games

Game stream: Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns

- by

The Denver Nuggets (1-0) play against the Phoenix Suns (1-1) at Footprint Center

Game Time: 10:00 PM EDT on Wednesday October 20, 2021

Denver Nuggets 110, Phoenix Suns 98 (Final)

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Nikola Jokić had timely baskets throughout the night. His 27 points almost look pedestrian, but they were each important baskets in the flow of the game, getting Denver out to a great start, keeping them close, and finishing strong.
Highlights here: denverstiffs.com/2021/10/21/227…3:19 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
NEW episode of Pickaxe and Roll, presented by @DKSportsbook:
Breaking down the Nuggets win from different angles, including:
– Jokić’s dominance
– MPJ’s adaptability
– Barton’s playmaking
– Bench struggles
Oh, and Denver’s refusal to be punked this time. denverstiffs.com/2021/10/21/227…2:55 AM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Closing thoughts after #Suns lose season opener. pic.twitter.com/BexUKoYHNq2:53 AM

Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
A recap of the Suns’ season opener, one in which they did not look like themselves against the Nuggets: arizonasports.com/story/2859733/…2:06 AM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
“One thing about me, throughout my whole life, I’ve always learned to control what I can control. At the same time, obviously I’m disappointed, but I’m still trying to get us back to the finals.” #Suns big Deandre Ayton addressing contract talks as they ended w/o an extension. pic.twitter.com/nJPmkUMqCi1:56 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Nikola Jokić on Michael Porter’s assist to him dragging the defense away from Joker in the paint:
“Well yeah, he had two guys on him and I was by myself.” – 1:26 AM
Katy Winge @katywinge
Will Barton with a fantastic quote on this Nuggets team and being overlooked:
“It’s not about proving people wrong.
It’s about proving ourselves right.” – 1:24 AM
Gina Mizell @ginamizell
#TeamNoSleep, had to book a flight that would get us home in time for a hypothetical practice in case a certain person returned (again) edition pic.twitter.com/uCBSAHCiQ41:23 AM

Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Will Barton:
“We know that people are doubting us..we know the talent we have.” – 1:20 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Will Barton on winning vs the Suns on the road:
“To come here in their building and get a win feels good.” – 1:18 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Aaron Gordon on having Jeff Green on his team again:
“It’s just dope to have him in the locker room.” – 1:14 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Deandre Ayton on taking three 3s tonight: “Mos def. I want to be more of a threat.” Said he wants to read the defense and take what it gives him – 1:14 AM
Michael Singer @msinger
Aaron Gordon said there were a couple Phoenix fans flipping him the double birds tonight.
Gordon said he winked at them. – 1:13 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Ayton was asked about his hot start compared to the second half and backed up what Monty said again: Ball stopped moving, fatigue set in and their defense, which creates their offense, wasn’t quite there – 1:12 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Aaron Gordon on beating the Suns on the road:
“It’s definitely one that we wanted to get…we’ll see them again. It’s just one game.” – 1:11 AM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Deandre Ayton is speaking now. Said he’s always learned to control what he can control. Said he is disappointed with no extension but is focused on getting back to the Finals. He’s a competitor and going to compete. – 1:10 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Deandre Ayton on the contract situation: “One thing about me, throughout my whole life I’ve always learned to control what I can control. At the same time, obviously I’m disappointed, but I’m just trying to get us back to the Finals.” – 1:10 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Deandre Ayton said the ball stopped moving and thought fatigue kicked in a little as well, echoing what Monty kept bringing up about the offense – 1:09 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Aaron Gordon on his block and the bench reaction:
“Everybody celebrates each other’s success.” – 1:09 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Mikal Bridges said the Suns got too relaxed near the end of the first half and the Nuggets played harder the full 48 minutes. Suns were outscored 10-1 to close the 3Q – 1:00 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Aaron Gordon’s ability to switch onto Booker as seamlessly as he was switching onto Ayton was extremely helpful. – 12:58 AM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Devin Booker and Monty Williams both said communication was a problem defensively. #Suns12:55 AM
Katy Winge @katywinge
Can someone please show me video of PJ Dozier reacting to the AG block – 12:55 AM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Monty Williams and Devin Booker both emphasized the need for more communication on defense. – 12:53 AM
Katy Winge @katywinge
Coach Malone in the huddle to start the 4th quarter challenged the Nuggets to hold Phoenix under 20 points in the final quarter.
The Nuggets held the Suns to 16. – 12:44 AM
Katy Winge @katywinge
Coach Malone on the Nuggets being overlooked – “When’s the last time an MVP wasn’t playing on Christmas? I don’t know.”
Added however, that’s not what drives Denver.
“What drives us is to try to win a championship.” – 12:43 AM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Monty Williams hit the nail on the head by saying even when the Suns scored sometimes, it just didn’t feel like them in terms of how they usually create good looks. Said the body and ball movement just wasn’t there like it normally is. – 12:42 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Monty Williams on Deandre Ayton’s hot start: “Early he was pretty good. I thought he settled us a little bit. But I thought some of those plays, even when we scored, I didn’t think it felt like us.” – 12:40 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Malone on staggering in the bench unit.
“You can feature Will, you can feature Michael in the second unit a bit more.”
Denver was at their best when they had at least one starter on the floor. – 12:38 AM
Rob Perez @WorldWideWob
i dont know how Jokic doesnt laugh out loud every time he gets the ball. id be giggling like a madman knowing im about to do a little riverdance dance for you followed by tomahawking some shit over my head that makes me look like im posing for synchronized swimming judges. – 12:34 AM
Jeff Eisenband @JeffEisenband
Aaron Gordon swatted this 4 rows back. pic.twitter.com/NoAvVT9Hd712:34 AM

Adam Mares @Adam_Mares
The live chat is already poppin. If you are a Denver Nuggets fan, come join in.
✅ Ayton no match for the reigning MVP
✅ Barton carries the bench
✅ Michael Porter the facilitator
✅ Funky music
youtube.com/watch?v=GarKmb…12:33 AM
Chris Dempsey @chrisadempsey
No, this obviously does not make up for the playoff loss to the Suns, but this is exactly the way the #Nuggets needed — and wanted — to show up to start the season. – 12:32 AM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Nikola Jokic made baskerball look easy tonight as the MVP tends to do.
27 points
13 rebounds
2 asssits
2 steals
He was a +28 in 35 minutes. – 12:31 AM
Chris Dempsey @chrisadempsey
What a 2nd half for the #Nuggets tonight. Just a different team in that half. Aggressive to the rim to start the third, disruptive on defense, and then the 3-point shooting came through. The Nuggets started 1/7 from the arc, then made 16/32 to end the game. – 12:31 AM
Sam Vecenie @Sam_Vecenie
Thought Aaron Gordon was really good in this Nuggets-Suns game. Just did all the little shit. Was always available in help defense right where he needed to be. Lot of one-percenter plays. Efficient in his touches, crisp passing within the flow. – 12:30 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Final rotation for the Nuggets in a 110-98 WIN over the Suns.
-Jokić was a +28! Starters kicked ass.
-No Rivers in second half. Barton staggered and performed well all game.
-Nuggets held Booker to 3/15 FG pic.twitter.com/d5pSnlgXhf12:30 AM

TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Aaron Gordon did all the dirty work while also filling the box score tonight. This was exactly the play Denver needs from him.
12 points
8 rebounds
4 assists
1 block – 12:30 AM
Harrison Wind @HarrisonWind
Vintage Will Barton. He’s been asked to play so many roles in Denver over the years. Starter, 6th man, backup point guard. Tonight, he gelled with the starters. Then led the second unit in the second half. Statement performance for sure. – 12:29 AM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Will Barton looked quick and explosive tonight. He meshed perfectly with the starters and led the bench. Great night from him.
20 points
6 rebounds
5 assists
1 steal
0 turnovers – 12:28 AM
Vinny Benedetto @VBenedetto
The Denver Nuggets open the regular season in impressive fashion, going to Phoenix and beating the Suns 110-98. Jokic goes for 27 and 13. Barton adds 20 and ices the game with a couple of late 3s. Bridges leads Phoenix with 16. Devin Booker limited to 12 points on 15 shots. – 12:27 AM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
The Nuggets showed everything I wanted them to show in the first game. Came out fast, hit a rough patch and some adversity, adjusted rotations at the half, and found both their groove and their toughness the rest of the way. Malone will like that second half for sure. – 12:26 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Final: DEN 110, PHX 98
Ayton: 15 Pts, 6 Reb, 6-10 FG
Paul: 15 Pts, 10 Ast
Booker: 12-4-4, 3-15 FG
Bridges: 16 Pts, 7-16 FG
Jokic: 27 Pts, 13 Reb, 13-22 FG
Suns were outscored 59-40 in the 2nd half – 12:25 AM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
Wouldn’t be a Nuggets game without Barton throwing someone a grenade with 1 second on the shot clock. He’s been so good tonight, though. Even if some of his shots might not be optimal, Denver NEEDS someone to take the non-optimal-but-crucial shots. – 12:25 AM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
#Suns lose opener, 110-98 Final. – 12:25 AM
Michael Singer @msinger
What a win for the #Nuggets. Tone-setting in a place that gave them nightmares last year.
Denver 110, Phoenix 98. – 12:25 AM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Suns fall to the Nuggets in the season opener. Barely any rhythm offensively and more lapses than usual defensively. Denver played a strong second half and hit a bunch of timely 3s. Booker was 3-of-15. Bridges led Phoenix with 16 points. 27-13-2 for Jokic. – 12:25 AM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Will Barton just MIGHT’VE been the player of the game, honestly.
That stint with the bench changed the game completely and some dagger shots to close Phoenix out. – 12:25 AM
Rob Perez @WorldWideWob
Suns in foreclosure. – 12:25 AM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Jokic is still Jokic and he dominated in his way tonight, but Denver does not get this win without the performacnes of Will Barton III, Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon.
There is a lot to clean up, but a road win in Phoenix was an encouraging start for the Nuggets. – 12:22 AM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Will Barton knocks down the corner 3-pointer to give him 17 points on the night and the Nuggets a 105-93 lead with 2:44 left in the game.
Denver’s defense was the difference. – 12:21 AM
Anthony Puccio @APOOCH
Aaron Gordon swatted this into a different dimension pic.twitter.com/4NrLwnE2XK12:19 AM

Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Barton corner 3. Timeout #Suns.
Down 12 with 2:44 left.
Fans are leaving – 12:19 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
That’s probably the dagger. Suns down 12 with 2:44 to go. Can’t remember the last time this Suns group looked this dysfunctional on both ends – 12:19 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Excellent defensive rotations by MPJ to close. – 12:19 AM
Harrison Wind @HarrisonWind
Under-the-radar great game from Aaron Gordon. 12 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and a block. Making all the hustle plays. Exactly what Denver needs from him. – 12:19 AM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Thrill has been great tonight. That 3 felt like the dagger. Suns haven’t scored in nearly 3 minutes but it has felt like triple that. Just no flow in the offense. – 12:18 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Suns need more from their star shooting guard right now.
Unfortunately, Landry Shamet is currently on the bench still – 12:17 AM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Aaron Gordon with the chase-down block on Devin Booker.
Denver’s defense has been great in the final frame as they look to close out the Suns. – 12:17 AM
Michael Singer @msinger
Aaron Gordon just swatted the ball into the fifth row behind the Nuggets’ bench. P.J. Dozier with an all-time reaction. – 12:16 AM
Chris Herring @Herring_NBA
Good Lord, Aaron Gordon – 12:16 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Aaron Gordon with the emphatic swat. Looked close to a goaltend – 12:16 AM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Attendance: 16,074 (No sellout). #Suns12:13 AM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
The reigning MVP is cooking in his first game of the season. Absolutely cooking.
Up to 25 points and 11 rebounds against the “Jokic stopper” – 12:13 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Devin Booker going 3-for-11 hasn’t helped – 12:13 AM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
I missed watching Nikola Jokic play basketball. What a treat. – 12:12 AM
Michael Singer @msinger
Whoever came up with speed kills hasn’t watched Nikola Jokic. – 12:11 AM
Adam Mares @Adam_Mares
CP3 and the Suns were great in the clutch last season. Curious to see what the Murray-less Nuggets go to in winning time. – 12:09 AM
Adam Mares @Adam_Mares
Great stint from the Nuggets’ bench + Barton. I’m guessing we will see either Barton or Porter with that unit going forward. – 12:08 AM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
Denver’s bench having an offensive run finally is great to see. Still want Denver to come back in with the big guys sooner rather than later. – 12:07 AM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
The Nuggets are up 96-84 after the steal and dunk by JaMychal Green.
Denver’s 2nd unit is making up for their poor 1st half and buying time for the Nuggets starters to close Phoenix out. – 12:05 AM
Michael Singer @msinger
Barton has unlocked this second unit. After each 3, first Jeff Green and then P.J. Dozier, entire bench has erupted, led by Joker. – 12:04 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
This lineup ain’t it. Every possession has ended with JaVale McGee frantically closing out on a stretch-big shooting a 3. Suns down 12 now – 12:04 AM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Jeff Green with some HUGE 3-pointers in this 4th quarter.
The @DNVR_Sports Bar has a “Uncle Jeff” chant going – 12:03 AM
Harrison Wind @HarrisonWind
Michael Malone adjusts his bench in the second half: No Austin Rivers, and it’s Will Barton playing with the second unit. Some promising moments, but Denver’s reserves blow their second big lead of the night. – 12:00 AM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Nuggets went up big in the 3rd frame as Denver went on a huge run but Phoenix made a push late in the quarter and cut the deficit to three points.
The bench unit has to buy some time for the starters to close them out. – 12:00 AM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
CP3 + reserves again. No MPJ or Jokic for Denver. Suns made a run with this last time in the first half. – 12:00 AM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Jokic came out of the game at the 3 minute mark in the 3rd quarter. I doubt he stays on the bench past 9 minutes in the 4th. – 11:59 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Also, if THIS is the Landry Shamet the Suns saw in camp…I would’ve given him a contract extension after like 2 weeks too – 11:58 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
When Green got past by McGee, Payne was keeping an eye on it the whole time. Got over there in time to make it awkward for Green to finish off the dribble and it allowed for the runout to the 3. Those are the types of defensive plays this team makes all the time. – 11:57 PM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Heads up play by Facu Campazzo to get the ball back for the Nuggets.
He’s scrappy and in the Suns players heads. – 11:57 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
End of 3Q: DEN 85, PHX 82
Ayton: 13 Pts, 6 Reb, 5-8 FG
Paul: 13 Pts, 6 Ast
Booker: 12 Pts, 4 Ast, 3-10 FG
Jokic: 19 Pts, 10 Reb
Suns got outscored 34-24 but closed the 3Q on an 8-0 run – 11:56 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Johnson 3. He’s 2-of-2 from deep.
Then sets up Shamet for 3.
#Suns cut 11-point deficit down to three. – 11:55 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Whether it’s AG-Crowder, Joker-Payne, JaVale wrinkle, or opponents’ general disdain for Facu, there is some spice brewing between these two teams. – 11:55 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Devin Booker’s face is bright red.
It means one of two things.
He’s been on fire.
He’s a little tired.
He’s fiery red at the refs.
Try the latter as he got off the bench and complained to the officials after Cam Johnson was called for PF.
#Suns down 11 after leading by 16. – 11:53 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Malone is staggering MPJ (and now Barton for Porter) with the second unit to ensure the second unit has some offensive pop. – 11:51 PM
Nick DePaula @NickDePaula
The Joker headlines the upcoming Nike Zoom GT Jump. 🃏 pic.twitter.com/AxJDsj7nHu11:50 PM

Michael Singer @msinger
Joker was livid that there wasn’t a call on the play before when JaVale two-handed shoved him to his chest. … And picked up a tech to show that. – 11:49 PM
Sam Vecenie @Sam_Vecenie
Michael Porter Jr has had one of the better passing games I’ve seen from him. Actual aggressive passes in flow of O. That bounce pass to Gordon isn’t the toughest look, but it’s not one that I feel like he wasn’t guaranteed to make last year. Good development potentially – 11:45 PM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Crazy how much better Denver’s defense against the Suns looks when they don’t shoot 69% on contested shots. – 11:44 PM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Monte Morris missed MPJ cutting to the corner and then both FT’s but followed it up with a 3-pointer that gives the Nuggets their biggest lead of the night.
Denver up 74-65 with 4:36 left in the 3rd quarter. – 11:44 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Nuggets now lead by 9 after an 11-0 run. Offense just doesn’t have its usual rhythm and feels like it’s hitching. Guys missing looks they normally don’t too. – 11:44 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
#Nuggets catching fire from 3.
Michael Porter Jr.
Monte Morris.
Monty Williams has seen enough
Timeout #Suns. Down 74-65 with 4:36 left in the 3rd. #Suns #Nuggets #NBA75 – 11:43 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Morris bangs his third 3-pointers of the quarter, Suns call TO, now down 74-65.
First guy out to greet him? Bones. – 11:43 PM
Adam Mares @Adam_Mares
Jokic is +24 – 11:43 PM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Five assists for Michael Porter Jr.
Doing a great job of setting up teammates and the passes off of shots has kept the defense guessing. – 11:42 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Defense looked like it snapped back into place in the second quarter but that did not last in the third quarter. On the other end the Suns only have 18 points in the paint. – 11:42 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
The Suns led by 16 with 1:27 left in the first half.
They’ve been outscored 27-8 in the 8 minutes since then – 11:42 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
That dime to AG was MPJ’s fifth of the night … which ties his career-high. – 11:40 PM
Chris Dempsey @chrisadempsey
#Nuggets getting back to being aggressive here early in the third. 8 points in the paint already; they had 6 in the entire second quarter. – 11:39 PM
Adam Mares @Adam_Mares
Really great stretch from Michael Porter Jr. Affecting the game in more ways than just scoring. – 11:38 PM
Harrison Wind @HarrisonWind
Four assists for Michael Porter Jr. in 22 minutes so far tonight, including a beauty to Nikola Jokic a couple minutes ago. Last season Porter only had two games with four or more assists. Both came after the All-Star break. – 11:38 PM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Happy’s learning how to putt with these MPJ’s playmaking reads. – 11:37 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Down 16, Nuggets take 66-65 lead. Jokic with 19 and 9.
Ayton 13 and five. #Suns11:36 PM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
Porter to Jokic was BEAUTIFUL. Very heads-up. Jokic and Porter getting on the same page on those sorts of plays this year without Murray is crucial. – 11:36 PM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Nuggets are within 1 after that MPJ and-1 finish.
Denver has not played well but have competed hard. They’re fighting back. – 11:35 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Here come the good Nuggets. Denver back up 1 – 11:35 PM
Kristian Winfield @Krisplashed
Great read and find MPJ to Jokic – 11:35 PM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
MPJ angry-driving the lane on the full-court sprint is nice. More of that. – 11:35 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Now a wonderful find by Porter to set up Jokic for the layup. His decision making has been strong. – 11:34 PM
Kristian Winfield @Krisplashed
Jokic coast 2 coast good god – 11:33 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Denver, where there’s a chance you might see Nikola Jokic go coast-to-coast with CP3, the league’s wiliest guard, on his heels. – 11:33 PM
Katy Winge @katywinge
Coast to coast Jokić being chased down by Chris Paul is must see basketball. Just makes you smile. – 11:33 PM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Aaron Gordon and Jae Crowder share words.
Double-techs called but this is a game that these teams want desperately. – 11:32 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Double techs on Gordon and Crowder for talking trash. Gordon gave Crowder a bit of a shove on the screen on the possession before. – 11:31 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Crowder, Gordon having words.
Received double techs.
#Suns up two. – 11:31 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Aaron Gordon and Jae Crowder exchanging words. Techs for both of them. – 11:30 PM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
Glad to see Barton flexing late in the half. Barton has an advantage over MPJ in that he can keep the ball himself and operate as the on-ball guard. MPJ requires set-up – so Denver needs to use both its offense-first scoring options in ways that utilize their different skills. – 11:24 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Good from the first half:
-Barton looks great
-Gordon and Porter were steady and productive
-Jokic is still Jokic
Bad from the first half:
-Bench unit struggles badly
-Denver is 6-18 from 3 even after going 2-2 from 3 to close the half
-Pace has been slow – 11:22 PM
Chris Dempsey @chrisadempsey
#Nuggets first half shooting vs PHX
Porter/Gordon/Jokic/Barton: 18 of 25
Rest of team: 4 of 17 – 11:20 PM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
First half: Jokic was amazing, as expected. The bench was a disaster, as expected. MPJ took just 4 shots, and might be useful staggered onto a bench unit that scored 4 combined buckets in the first half. It would require them to feed him, though, and maybe play some defense. – 11:17 PM
Adam Mares @Adam_Mares
Biggest story from the first half is that Denver’s bench looks exactly like they did in the preseason: frighteningly bad. I’d love to see Bones out there but I don’t think he’s going to save that unit. Going to be a work in progress for quite awhile. – 11:17 PM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Halftime rotations for Game 1 of the season.
-Jokic +8 when ON, -15 when OFF
-No staggering
-No Bones pic.twitter.com/Pkkznw7Vll11:16 PM

Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Not an ideal 1st half for the Nuggets as they go into the halftime intermission down 58-51.
They did find a bit of a rhythm as Jokic hit a buzzer-beating 3-pointer. He’s up to 15 points, 6 rebounds.
Barton added 11.
If you’re Coach Malone, what’s your message to the team? – 11:15 PM
Dan Favale @danfavale
nikola jokic’s ability to get late-clock buckets is underrated – 11:15 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Remember that two-for-one by Barton at the end of the first half. If Denver gets back in this game, that moment could be a big reason why. He hit a 3 and then set up Jokic for a 3 at the buzzer. That is a big 6 point swing. – 11:12 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Halftime: PHX 58, DEN 51
Ayton: 13 Pts, 4 Reb, 5-7 FG
Paul: 11 Pts, 5 Ast, 4-5 FG
Booker: 9 Pts, 2-6 FG
Jokic: 15 Pts, 6 Reb
Horrendous close to the 2Q chops a 14-point lead in half – 11:12 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Jokic, Barton, Porter and Gordon have all looked good, but the bench unit lit every shred of momentum on fire which gave the Suns a rhythm. – 11:09 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Chris Paul is looking to check in, but during FTs, he called Devin Booker and Cameron Payne over for a quick word.
There are less than a handful of players who are doing that.
Maybe even less than that. #Suns up 14 with 1:30 left in half. – 11:08 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Mikal Bridges, good at the defense – 11:08 PM
Katy Winge @katywinge
What the Nuggets did to build the lead in the first quarter – took care of the ball, got stops, and defended the 3.
Need to get back to those things. – 11:07 PM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Through all of this, Jokic is +2. – 11:06 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Barton got back but no one else did which led to an easy layup for the Suns. Barton did everything he could to keep both Suns players split in transiton and stop the ball, but got no support. – 11:04 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
There is such a stark contrast between the way PHX is playing, pass/cut/move/kick/attack, and the way DEN is playing right now. It’s single-line drive and …
After that last TO, Malone turned his back on the ensuing play and looked to the heavens. – 11:04 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Suns have outscored the Nuggets 29-10 in the second quarter to take a 13-point lead.
This is more what we’re used to seeing – 11:04 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Suns had hit six 3s in a row until that Bridges miss. Great defense on that last sequence. It’s now a 13-point ball game. – 11:04 PM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
In the Nuggets vs. Suns matchups heading back to last year’s playoffs, it is about runs.
Denver goes on one and as soon as they’re forced to go to their second unit, they give up a huge run that they struggle getting out of.
Starters are back in and have a big hole to fill. – 11:03 PM
Malika Andrews @malika_andrews
Suns GM James Jones to @MarkJonesESPN on no extension for DeAndre Ayton: “We just couldn’t come to an agreement. We all agree he is a tremendous player, but we just couldn’t agree on a # of years. It doesn’t change what our focus is. It doesn’t change how we feel about him…” – 11:02 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Anyone know what Jokic is wearing on his feet? I cannot tell on the broadcast but need to know. Man came with some heat to start the year. – 11:02 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
“We’ve listened to some things that they’ve said. They’re hungry”
#Suns coach Monty Williams before the game as Nuggets are still upset about being swept in conference semifinals.
#Suns were down 11. Now they’re up 11, 47-36 with 4:13 left in the 1st half. #NBA75 pic.twitter.com/E1S4NhOTva11:02 PM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
The Nuggets have scored 10 points in the 2nd in about 8 minutes. The bench was ice cold, no starters subbed in with them so all the starters came back cold too. 4 minutes to claw it back, but definitely frustrating after the great start to the game. – 11:01 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Suns suddenly up 9 with Booker at the FT line out of the timeout. These are the little pockets of time Booker picks in a game to get himself going if he needs it. Would expect he’s gonna be aggressive until half. – 11:00 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Welp, bench unit hasn’t been in for several minutes, and offense looks all out of sorts. Nuggets with 10 points in eight minutes of second Q. – 11:00 PM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
That one rotation decision sucked the life out of Denver’s start to the game, which was awesome. – 10:59 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Nuggets seem to be playing in mud. Not much movement, ball is not popping, they are not pushing the pace much, and are 3-14 from deep. – 10:59 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
I believe we just had a “Pay DA” chant if I heard that right while Ayton was shooting free throws – 10:57 PM
David Morrow @_DavidMorrow
Deandre Ayton just knocked down the eighth 3 of his career 👀 – 10:57 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Ayton 3. Best looking 3 he’s taken on form alone. #Suns up 43-36.
Has 11 and 4. – 10:55 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Campazzo Special from CP3 (doing work against the opposition’s subs in his 2nd shift) got the Suns going.
Now he exits. Lets see if they can carry over that momentum. – 10:55 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Deandre Ayton takes his second 3 with no hesitation and nails it. Statement being made – 10:55 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Deandre Ayton has made a 3 – 10:55 PM
Katy Winge @katywinge
Chris Paul is a master of the fundamentals of basketball. – 10:55 PM
Kristian Winfield @Krisplashed
Suns GM James Jones on DeAndre Ayton’s contract negotiations: “We just couldn’t come to an agreement. We all agree that he’s a tremendous player, he’s a great player. But we just couldn’t agree on a number of years.” #Suns10:54 PM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
Remember when Malone was gonna stagger MPJ or Barton with the 2nd unit to avoid the scoring droughts? Someone remind him of that too please. – 10:54 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Starters minus Booker and plus Shamet out of the timeout. MPJ and Jokic back in for Denver. – 10:52 PM
Kristian Winfield @Krisplashed
2 Ex-Nets going at each other tonight: Jeff Green (Nuggets) and Landry Shamet (Suns).
Both left Brooklyn to get paid. Green signed a 2-year, $10M deal, and Shamet just secured the bag in Phoenix: 4 years, $43 million. #Nets10:50 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Buzz in the arena started growing as soon as CP had Facu on an island. Team Argentina took that round, though. – 10:50 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Shamet with eight off the bench. 2-of-2 from 3. #Suns up 36-34. – 10:49 PM
Kristian Winfield @Krisplashed
Oh look Uncle Jeff is in a Nuggets jersey – 10:48 PM
Adam Mares @Adam_Mares
Boneless Nuggets bench is as bad as I feared. – 10:47 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Chris Paul 3. #Suns took 30-28 lead before Green answers with 3.
Then Paul answers with another 3. #Suns up 33-31. – 10:47 PM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
Suns on a 10-0 run. Denver is paying too much for iso jumpers from bench bigs to be the best they can do. – 10:46 PM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
The Suns are on a 13-0 run right now. Have not been able to get anything going with this second unit that is clearly missing a scorer.
Malone will have to do more staggering of lineups as the season progresses. – 10:46 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Not much offense on the floor for the Nuggets and the Suns take advantage. Now up 2. – 10:46 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
I don’t think even JaVale McGee could’ve gotten a piece of that JaVale McGee floater – 10:46 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
The Nuggets second unit is making scoring look extremely difficult right now. – 10:46 PM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Isolation post ups for JaMychal Green what in the world – 10:45 PM
Kristian Winfield @Krisplashed
Ohhhh I got home in time for Nuggets-Suns?
Who’s staying up late? – 10:45 PM
Tim Reynolds @ByTimReynolds
Most points, first game of season:
320 – Warriors 162, Nuggets 158, 1990
272 – Knicks 138, Celtics 134, tonight
271 – Pacers 140, Nets 131, 2017 – 10:44 PM
Harrison Wind @HarrisonWind
After all the preseason buzz about the Nuggets shooting way more 3s — and they attempted 45/game in the preseason — Denver shoots just seven in the first quarter. No complaints from Michael Malone I bet. Nuggets hold the Suns to just 20 points on 39% shooting. – 10:42 PM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
Denver’s bench has to finish these looks. Butchering the end of quarter clock management and started hemorrhaging immediately. It’s a veteran group, so make veteran decisions please. – 10:41 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Nuggets lead 26-20 in Phoenix after one quarter.
Jokic: 10p-4r-1a-2s
Gordon: 8p-0r-2a
Porter: 4p-2r-3a-2s – 10:41 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
This is an interesting point in the game when it comes to minute management and such. CP3 usually starts the 2nd and they need him. Monty staggered CP3/Book more often than not. – 10:41 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
What an opening quarter for the #Nuggets, who lead 26-20 after one. Joker has 10, AG has 8, but MPJ with the most surprising line. Porter with four points (2-of-3), with three assists and two steals. That pump-fake on Booker … 👀 – 10:40 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Five big points from Landry Shamet gives the Suns a 5-0 run to close the quarter. Margin is only six after a rough opening 12 minutes. – 10:39 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
End of 1Q: DEN 26, PHX 20
Ayton: 8 Pts, 4 Reb, 4-6 FG
Shamet: 5 Pts, 2-2 FG
Booker: 3 Pts, 1-4 FG
Jokic: 10 Pts, 2 Stl, 5-6 FG – 10:39 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Shamet five quick points. #Suns cut lead to six. – 10:38 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Something most people did not expect: Austin Rivers is entering the game over Bones Hyland. – 10:37 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Just about everything is off. Suns are 1-of-9 from 3 with five turnovers. Bunch of passes off the mark. Defense isn’t quite there yet, either. – 10:37 PM
Harrison Wind @HarrisonWind
An October surprise from Michael Malone: Austin Rivers checks in before Bones Hyland. – 10:37 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Suns are 1-for-9 from 3 and cannot stop Jokic. Pretty sloppy start so far – 10:37 PM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Wow. Austin Rivers gets the mod over Bones. Interesting. – 10:36 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
I wrote about this in my season preview, but Gordon and Porter are going to be the keys to the Nuggets season and so far both are playing fantastic. Encouraging start. – 10:36 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
2nd unit in.
Cameron Payne
Cam Johnson
Landry Shamet
Abdel Nader
JaVale McGee.
Down 9. #Suns10:35 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Someone should write a season preview about how MPJ and Aaron Gordon are the keys to the #Nuggets‘ season, after Joker of course.
Both have been excellent … on both ends. – 10:35 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Not a good first shift for Booker on either end. Here comes Shamet and Nader. Full 2nd unit lineup. – 10:35 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
#Nuggets extending lead. Up nine. #Suns10:34 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Nuggets went to Dozier and Facu off the bench first for Morris and Barton. – 10:34 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Dozier and Campazzo are first two #Nuggets off the bench. – 10:33 PM
Gordon Gross @GMoneyNuggs
Other people: MP is selfish
Me: MPJ wants to be a great team player actually
MPJ: watch me pass this ball to whomever is open for the bucket
Me: pic.twitter.com/HUuYkjb23P10:32 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Ayton is having his way in single coverage at the rim, but Porter and Gordon are both doing a great job of limiting Bridges, Crowder and Booker on the perimeter. – 10:31 PM
Duvalier Johnson @DuvalierJohnson
Michael Porter Jr. does not make that pass even in the preseason where he sees that Jokic has his man sealed so it is great to see him playing free but also recognizing the mismatch.
Has a couple of good finds early in this one as the Nuggets take a 20-15 lead in the 1st. – 10:31 PM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
MPJ just constantly making great decisions on both ends of the floor in the minutes I’ve seen, which is great. – 10:31 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Suns are certainly trying to get Ayton the ball. That eight minutes was primarily through him.
Nuggets up 5 as The Cams will check in. Monty won’t like the transition defense on that last 3. – 10:30 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Really like MPJ’s defensive activity so far. Suns are trying to attack him, and he’s contesting looks/ competing around screens. Also had a nice read right there to find AG in the corner. Gordon looks good. – 10:30 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Nuggets go on a 9-3 run and Monty wants a timeout. Suns’ defense definitely isn’t in midseason form quite yet – 10:30 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Porter showing off his patience as he finds Jokic and gets him the ball in traffic for a better shot. Good decision by him. – 10:29 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Booker from Mesa for 3. #Suns up 15-13. – 10:28 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
The Nuggets have only generated two 3-pointers in their first eight shooting possessions and both were from Barton. I am guessing Malone will emphasis getting into the paint to break down the defense during this break. – 10:26 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Bridges had that grab-and-go on like the 2nd possession where he missed Book wide open to his right. He’s gonna pick a lot more up when the aggression stays consistent. Good sign early on it will. – 10:26 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Ayton’s size and touch is causing all sorts of issues for the Nuggets early on. Great start for him on both ends of the floor. – 10:23 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Deandre Ayton has 8 of the Suns’ first 12 points. Missed a heat check 3 as the trailer but he’s still 4-for-5 – 10:23 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Ayton 4-of-4. Eight points. #Suns up 12-11. – 10:23 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Deandre Ayton with 8 points in the first 5 minutes – 10:22 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Ayton connects again. 2-of-2. #Suns down 9-6 as Barton scores back-to-back trips. – 10:21 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Chris Paul going between legs and pull up jumper like routine.
#Suns up 4-2. – 10:19 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Deandre Ayton fadeaway jumper gets the Suns’ 2021-22 season started on the scoreboard, just like we all predicted – 10:18 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
CP3 turns down some space from the midrange to get Ayton a post touch. He hits the fadeaway jumper. – 10:18 PM
TJ McBride @TJMcBrideNBA
Ayton in a deep drop so Jokic drops in the mid-range look to start the season for the Nuggets. – 10:17 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Jokic looks even slimmer than last season.
Scores first bucket.
Ayton comes right back with jumper in lane. #Suns #Nuggets 2-2 – 10:17 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Fittingly, Nikola Jokic drains Denver’s first basket of the season. – 10:17 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Bridges on MPJ
Barton on Booker – 10:16 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Starting lineups were pretty sweet. DA got major love from the crowd. And then Devin Booker brought it home pic.twitter.com/ePX9YpTvYK10:15 PM

Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Loudest introduction cheers?
Close tie.
Devin Booker, Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton.
Very close. #Suns #NBA7510:15 PM
Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Great. OT in the first game with the Nuggets in the second game. – 10:14 PM
Katy Winge @katywinge
Frankie J just sang the national anthem here in Phoenix and I will now have obsession stuck in my head for the duration of the evening. – 10:09 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Year 7 covering the Suns. Thank you to all of you for making this possible.
Let’s get it pic.twitter.com/ce4laen3CQ10:02 PM

Sam Quinn @SamQuinnCBS
No. 13 picks:
2014: Zach LaVine
2015: Devin Booker
2017: Donovan Mitchell
2019: Tyler Herro
2021: Chris Duarte
I don’t know when or why No. 13 just became the super fun guard slot but I’m here for it and would like to purchase one ticket for the Chris Duarte bandwagon please. – 9:36 PM
Michael Singer @msinger
Nuggets starters: Monte Morris, Will Barton, MPJ, AG and Nikola Jokic. As expected. – 9:31 PM
Katy Winge @katywinge
Jamal Murray and Deandre Ayton shared a moment at center court pregame. I believe right before this video, Ayton bet Murray he could make this shot, he missed, and then had to do push ups 😂 pic.twitter.com/pW3h0uBg1O9:20 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Jamal Murray bet Deandre Ayton some push-ups on his traditional half-court heave. Seems to be in good spirits! pic.twitter.com/pGWAx0HmMt9:17 PM

Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Devin Booker getting ready for the season opener pic.twitter.com/zdxJ3ZsRF59:15 PM

Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
‘I know how competitive he is:’ Chris Paul shares thoughts on Deandre Ayton, #Suns not agreeing to extension azcentral.com/story/sports/n… via @azcentral pic.twitter.com/QGh6j3tLlk9:13 PM

Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Michael Malone called the Suns crowd a “tremendous homecourt advantage” last postseason and said they come here knowing they are playing against not only the Suns but the crowd as well – 8:35 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
“Give these fans credit, this was a tough place, very loud place to play. Tremendous home-court advantage.” – Michael Malone on opening on the road in Phoenix – 8:34 PM
Vinny Benedetto @VBenedetto
Michael Malone – like most coaches – wants to get stops, rebound and run tonight in Phoenix. He added he thought the Nuggets did a pretty good job of getting out in transition this preseason. – 8:34 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Michael Malone was asked about the DA/Jokic matchup and said jokingly he hopes Deandre Ayton is pissed off about not getting a contract extension – 8:33 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
“I’m hoping he’s pissed off he didn’t get a contract extension.” Nuggets coach Michael Malone about Deandre Ayton. #Suns #Nuggets8:32 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Michael Malone, joking when asked about the Deandre Ayton-Nikola Jokic matchup: “Well I’m hoping he’s pissed off about not getting a contract extension” – 8:31 PM
Evan Dunlap @BQRMagic
for me, one of the most important tasks for the Magic this season is defining roles. In their last rebuild, Oladipo/Harris/Vučević/Gordon were all 1A, and putting Payton in the starting group (per Jake Fischer’s book) negatively affected chemistry – 8:28 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Monty on Chris Paul being named to the #NBA75 list: “I think it’s really cool we’ve been able to be a part of his achievements…A lot of hard work, and he’s gained a lot of respect in every era that he’s played.” – 8:24 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Monty Williams said he’s talked with Chris Paul about managing his minutes a bit more this season. Said the Suns want to be smart about keeping him fresh but he’s also a guy (obviously) who wants to play. So they’ll keep that dialogue going – 8:22 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Catch-and-shoot work for Jalen Smith pic.twitter.com/NDIum4pkXe7:47 PM

The Vertical @YahooSportsNBA
Celtics vs Knicks
Nuggets vs Suns
Day 2 of the NBA season is going down! 🔥🥳 pic.twitter.com/BMenI7VySo7:28 PM

Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Starting new season with new game day gear. #Suns #Nuggets #NBA75 pic.twitter.com/RwqurOeKdS7:23 PM

Joe Cowley @JCowleyHoops
That’s what they want from the Vooch … playing Joker role. Top of the key, dribble handoff, and stay present to facilitate off of it. – 7:16 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
James Jones on @BurnsAndGambo said a 5-year max to Deandre Ayton was not something the Suns were interested in for a multitude of reasons and it ultimately came down to it not being a preference from a roster construction standpoint. – 6:42 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
So that’s Steve Nash, Charles Barkley and Chris Paul on the #NBA75 list in terms of former Suns so far – 6:19 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
‘Everybody should get vaccinated’: Charles Barkley sounds off on vaccine, Kyrie Irving situation (w/videos) #NBA75 #Suns #BrooklynNets azcentral.com/story/sports/n… via @azcentral5:03 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
“It worked because there’s a trust factor there and respect factor. Regardless of the age difference, basketball is the commonality.”
Chris Paul and Devin Booker led #Suns to #NBA Finals in their first season together.
Year 2 begins tonight. #NBA75 bit.ly/2XugfNx pic.twitter.com/oOeDMHmA8q5:01 PM

Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Phoenix #Suns: Charles Barkley, Steve Nash, Chris Paul make #NBA75 greatest ever list azcentral.com/story/sports/n… via @azcentral pic.twitter.com/gFu4t6VZHZ4:56 PM

, ,

LATEST

More HoopsHype