The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Phoenix Suns, 97-87, in Game 2 of the Western Conference Semi-Finals at Ball Arena on Tuesday.

The game got out to a slow start as the Suns led, 21-18, after one quarter. Neither side could pull away in the second, while the Nuggets trimmed it to a two-point deficit by halftime. The pace picked up in the third and the Suns opened up an eight-point lead, but the Nuggets rallied back to cut down to a three-point game heading into the final frame. The hosts kept the momentum going in the fourth and outscored the Suns, 27-14, in the quarter to complete the comeback win and take a 2-0 series lead.

Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 39 points, 16 rebounds, five assists, two steals and a block, in 41 minutes. Aaron Gordon followed up with 16 points, two steals and a block, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope tallied 14 points, five rebounds, two assists and a steal. The Nuggets shot 47.4 percent from the field, including 7-of-27 from long range.

Meanwhile, Devin Booker led the Suns with 35 points, five rebounds and six assists, in 45 minutes of action. Kevin Durant followed up with 24 points, eight rebounds, three assists, two blocks and a steal, while Deandre Ayton added 14 points, eight rebounds, four assists and a block. The Suns shot 40 percent from the field, including 6-of-31 from deep.

Game 3 is scheduled for Friday in Phoenix.