The Denver Nuggets defeated the Memphis Grizzlies, 108-104, at FedExForum on Friday.

The Nuggets (2-0) remain perfect in their quest to defend their NBA title and secured a solid road win over a Grizzlies team that remains winless (0-2). The Nuggets looked like the better team as soon as the game started and opened things up with a 25-18 score following the first quarter. However, the Grizzlies didn’t give up and reduced the deficit to five points at the break following a 38-36 score in the second quarter. The Nuggets recovered control of the game after a 28-23 score in the third quarter and seemed ready to close the game out. Memphis responded with an excellent performance in the fourth quarter and outscored Denver by a 25-19 score in the final 12 minutes, but it was not enough to mount a comeback. The Nuggets closed the game out and secured the victory despite Memphis’ attempts to turn things around down the stretch.

Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray both paced the Nuggets with 22 points each. Jokic also recorded 12 rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a block, while Murray added five assists. Aaron Gordon was the only other Denver player who scored in double digits after ending with 10 points, three assists and three steals. Reggie Jackson stepped his game up from the bench and ended with 16 points and six dimes.

All five starters scored in double digits for the Grizzlies. Jaren Jackson Jr. was the best player for Memphis with 21 points, nine rebounds, three blocks and two assists. Marcus Smart recorded 20 points, five assists and five steals. Desmond Bane had 15 points, three boards, three assists and two steals. Xavier Tillman notched 13 points, eight boards, two assists and three steals. Ziaire Williams posted 11 points and nine rebounds.