The Portland Trail Blazers are preparing for a crucial showdown against the Denver Nuggets, hoping to bounce back from a tough loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Portland has been on a strong run lately,

The Nuggets played without starting point guard Jamal Murray, who sat out due to inflammation in his left knee. Given their recent schedule, the team decided getting Murray off his feet was wise. The team has been playing without guard Russell Westbrook, who’s been sidelined by a hamstring injury.