There's something about a quick start that can set the tone for a game.
The Denver Nuggets raced out to a 29-14 lead after one quarter and went on to defeat the Orlando Magic, 121-111, on Monday night at Ball Arena.
That hot start turned out to be the difference.
Denver jumped in front 12-4 in the first 5:35 of the game and never looked back, building the lead to double figures for the first time when it was 17-7 with 4:42 left in the opening quarter.
The Nuggets led 53-40 at halftime and 85-70 after three quarters.
Center Nikola Jokic scored 26 points, grabbed 15 rebounds and handed out seven assists. Will Barton and Jeff Green each scored 17 points. Bryn Forbes added 16 points while DeMarcus Cousins had nine points and five rebounds.
All five Nuggets starters scored in double figures.
The Nuggets will next play at Golden St. on Wednesday, February 16 at 8 p.m. MST.
Postgame comments from Nuggets guard Bryn Forbes.
Postgame comments from Nuggets center DeMarcus Cousins.
Postgame comments from Nuggets head coach Michael Malone.