LeBron James outduels Nikola Jokic as Nuggets fall to Cavs 113-108

DENVER — Nuggets coach Michael Malone wanted a more aggressive Nikola Jokic against the Cleveland Cavaliers after Denver’s star center attempted just 22 shots over the last three games.

Malone got his wish as Jokic poured in 17 third-quarter points and helped the Nuggets come back from a 16-point first half deficit. But it wasn’t enough as the Cavaliers, behind a memorable 39 points, eight rebounds and 10 assists from LeBron James, edged the Nuggets 113-108.

Jokic finished with 36 points, 13 rebounds and six assists.

James’ three from the wing with 1:11 remaining and Cleveland clinging to a two-point lead put the Cavaliers ahead 109-104. Then, Denver countered with a Paul Millsap layup but it was James, who answered with a fadeaway jumper from the left baseline.

After two Jokic free-throws brought the Nuggets to within three it was James again, who hit a nearly impossible jumper from the left corner to put the Cavaliers back up five. Denver turned the ball over on the game’s next possession to ice the game.

Elsewhere for the Nuggets, Gary Harris scored 18 points on 7-18 shooting. Mason Plumlee added 12 points and five rebounds off the bench. Paul Millsap, in his fifth game back from a left wrist injury, scored 12 points and registered five rebounds in 26 minutes.