The Denver Nuggets held a 67-55 lead over the Memphis Grizzlies at halftime, but were unable to hold on for the victory, losing 108-116 on Sunday night. Just like the last game, the Nuggets had a quarter in which they failed to score at least 20 points. Unfortunately, this one came in the fourth quarter when they put up 18 points to Grizzlies' 34.
Both teams shot at least 55 percent from the field, but the Grizzlies were able to get to the free throw line more often (32 to the Nuggets' 21). The Grizzlies also did a great job of grabbing rebounds, winning that one 41-29.
Carmelo Anthony led the Nuggets with 28 points (though scoring only two in the fourth quarter) while Nene, Ty Lawson and J.R. Smith each scored 14 points. Nene, though, was only able to pull down three boards. Chauncey Billups contributed 13 points and dished out seven assists. Arron Afflalo, who had the game-winning shot the previous game, finished with four points.
For the Grizzlies, Darrell Arthur scored a career-high 24 points. Zach Randolph was a beast around the boards, grabbing 16 rebounds. He scored 14 points as well. Rudy Gay had a team-high 23 points to go with his five rebounds, four assists and two steals.
The Nuggets (31-24, 9-17 away) will regroup for a road game against the Houston Rockets on Valentine's Day.