SALT LAKE CITY — Nikola Jokic had 30 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 122-103 victory over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night.

Jokic scored 19 points on 8 of 10 shooting in the first quarter alone, helping Denver rally from an early 12-point deficit.

Jamal Murray contributed 22 points, eight assists and four steals for the Nuggets. Michael Porter Jr. had 19 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Christian Braun finished with 18 points and seven boards.

Collin Sexton led the Jazz with 26 points. Keyonte George scored 23 points, including five 3-pointers. Walker Kessler contributed 16 points, 12 rebounds and five assists.

Utah played without injured starters Lauri Markkanen and John Collins.

Denver opened up a close game with a 21-4 run from midway through the second quarter through the third quarter. With three baskets each, Murray and Porter fueled the spurt that gave the Nuggets a 70-53 lead.

Utah trailed by double digits the rest of the way.

Takeaways

Nuggets: Jokic proved to be too much for the undermanned Jazz. Its efficient offense helped Denver turn a sluggish start into a stunning victory.

Jazz: Micah Potter and Svi Mykhailiuk made their first starts of the season. They combined for 16 points and Potter grabbed a career-high 16 rebounds.

Key moment

After George tied it with a 3-pointer midway through the second quarter, the Nuggets held the Jazz to two baskets during an eight-minute stretch that spanned the second and third quarters.

Important statistics

Denver scored 28 points off 18 turnovers at Utah. Takeaways also helped the Nuggets score 33 fast break points.

Next

The Nuggets play at the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, while the Jazz host the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday.

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AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba