The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Denver Nuggets, 125-115, in Orlando on Thursday.

A 35-23 second quarter really buoyed Portland to their victory, leading for all but a few minutes over the final three quarters. With that said, there were 11 lead changes in total. The Trail Blazers ended up shooting 47 percent from the field and 59 percent from three-point range (23-of-39). Denver shot 52 percent from the field and 50 percent from long range. The Trail Blazers forced the Nuggets to commit 16 turnovers while Portland had just nine on their end.

The Nuggets (45-24) were led by Michael Porter Jr, who tallied 27 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and two steals. Nikola Jokic had just eight points but provided five points and 13 assists. Jerami Grant amassed 18 points. three rebounds and two assists. Mason Plumlee led the bench with 13 points, seven rebounds and five assists.

The Trail Blazers (32-38) were led by Damian Lillard, who collected 45 points, four rebounds, 12 assists and three steals. Jusuf Nurkic totaled 22 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two blocks. C.J, McCollum generated 13 points, six rebounds and six assists. Gary Trent Jr led the bench with 27 points, three rebounds and four assists.

Both teams return to action on Saturday, with Portland facing the Los Angeles Clippers and Denver playing the Utah Jazz.