The trickle-down effect of Irving’s return changes the dynamic for Dallas’ backcourt play. Dinwiddie joined Irving in the backcourt and Naji Marshall returned to the bench. Jaden Hardy, who was in the midst of an offensive surge, was the first guard off the bench in Irving’s absence.

That hot start for Murray only continued as he helped extend Denver's lead to 27-12. Peyton Watson hit a three, and Jokic hit his first shot of the game as the Nuggets took a 32-1