Denver Nuggets and Memphis Grizzlies trade punchlines at FedExForum as turnovers tilt the script

The Denver Nuggets left FedExForum at 42-28 after a 125-118 game with the Memphis Grizzlies, who moved to 24-44. The Denver Nuggets vs Memphis Grizzlies final score reflected Memphis leading 38:20 and the teams finishing with 11 ties and 21 lead changes.

First quarter

The Denver Nuggets scored 30 in the first quarter while the Memphis Grizzlies scored 31. The Nugs shot 49 percent from the field in the game and logged 34 assists, and that ball movement showed up early with Denver staying within 1. The Grizzlies created extra possessions with 12 steals and turned that into 27 points off turnovers.

Second quarter

The Denver Nuggets added 30 in the second quarter and the Memphis Grizzlies put up 29. Jamal Murray’s previous-game line of 19 points and 12 assists fit the profile of Denver’s 1.79 assist-to-turnover ratio in this matchup. Memphis leaned on its bench for 43 points, a lift that matched the home team’s 11-point biggest lead.

Third quarter

The Denver Nuggets scored 31 in the third quarter, but the Memphis Grizzlies swung the game with 39 in the period. Nikola Jokić’s previous-game production of 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 9 assists underscored how Denver generated 58 points in the paint, yet the Nugs still finished with 19 turnovers. Memphis also stacked rim protection with 9 blocks, helping offset a 43 percent field goal mark.

Fourth quarter

The Denver Nuggets scored 27 in the fourth quarter while the Memphis Grizzlies scored 26 to hold the margin. Denver produced 21 fast-break points on 64 percent fast-break finishing, and the Grizzlies countered with 29 fast-break points on 67 percent conversion. Christian Braun’s previous-game 26 points and 4 steals aligned with Denver’s 6 steals here, while Memphis’ 32 free throw attempts at 78 percent helped hold serve late, a key note in Denver Nuggets vs Memphis Grizzlies highlights and post-game thoughts Denver Nuggets.

Up next

The Denver Nuggets will host the Toronto Raptors at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on 3/20/2026 at 9:00 PM EDT, with coverage on ALT2 and SportsNet. Track the matchup, revisit Denver Nuggets vs Memphis Grizzlies final thoughts, and share this article with other Nugs fans.