Avdija's late surge powers Blazers past Nuggets

Deni Avdija scored 28 points for the Portland Trail Blazers, who defeated the Denver Nuggets 118-110 on Monday night in Denver. The victory extends Portland's road winning streak to four games.

Avdija contributed nine of his 28 points in the fourth quarter. Jrue Holiday provided 17 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds off the bench. Donovan Clingan added 17 points and 18 rebounds, while Damian Lillard scored 20.

The Trail Blazers held a slim lead for most of the contest. They trailed through the first 32 minutes before Holiday's layup late in the third quarter gave them an 82-80 advantage. Denver regained a two-point lead entering the fourth quarter, but Portland answered with a 9-2 run to build a six-point cushion.

Holiday sank Portland's 14th three-pointer to make the score 108-99. The Nuggets responded with a late push, trimming the deficit to 110-107 on a three by Jamal Murray. Toumani Camara hit the final three-pointer for Portland with 1:09 remaining to secure the win.

Denver lost its second home game in three attempts. The Nuggets' only home win came in overtime against New Orleans after a 23-point comeback. Jamal Murray led Denver with 35 points. Nikola Jokic recorded 26 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. He entered the fourth quarter needing one assist for his 201st career triple-double but finished without a final-period assist or rebound.

Portland faces Phoenix on Wednesday night. The Nuggets host Toronto on the same night. The Trail Blazers have played six of their first seven games away from home following a season-opening win over Phoenix.