The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the host Denver Nuggets, 115 - 113, in an overtime thriller at Pepsi Center on Saturday. Damian Lillard continued his epic start to the season, by hitting a game - winning runner in overtime to defeat the Nuggets. Most of the statistics would indicate a Nuggets win, but that simply was n't the case. Denver dominated at the free - throw line, going 31 - for - 39, while holding Portland to 15 - for - 21. Rebounding was huge as well, as the Nuggets snatched down 61 boards to the Blazers 45. Denver shot under 40 percent from the field and lost the turnover battle 17 - 15 though. The Trail Blazers won despite failing to hit a shot for an eight - minute stretch in the third quarter, allowing Denver to go on a 170 run. Portland (2 - 1) had the tough task of playing an opponent in their home opener and they showed some resiliency at altitude. Damian Lillard carried the load, as he tallied 37 points, five rebounds, seven assists and three steals in the win. Despite shooting just 7 - for - 20 in regulation, C.J. McCollum finished strong, totaling 23 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks and three steals. Evan Turner and Allen Crabbe both scored in double figures off the bench, combining for 23 points, six rebounds and six assists. The Nuggets (1 - 1) went with a full team effort here, as all five starters scored between 12 and 23 points in their loss. Nikola Jokic recorded a double - double, tallying a team - high 23 points, a career - high 17 rebounds and four steals in the defeat. Emmanuel Mudiay provided 21 points, seven rebounds and four assists of his own. Mudiay actually scored 13 of his 21 points in the third quarter. In a revenge game for Will Barton, the Cincinnati product finished with 16 points, six rebounds and three assists. The Nuggets next game will be on the road, as they play the Toronto Raptors on Monday. The Blazers return to action on Tuesday, hosting the Golden State Warriors.
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