Dejounte Murray lit the Mavericks up for 30 points, and Trey Murphy III wasn't far behind with 24. Neither was entirely efficient from the floor, but they made enough shots to sink the Mavs. Dallas' starters just weren't good enough, which is where we'll start our three takeaways.

They have a bit of a cushion as they currently lead the Mavericks 96-79. The Nuggets entered the game having won three straight and they're just one quarter away from another. Will they make it four,

The Denver Nuggets head back to American Airlines Center to face the Dallas Mavericks in the second of a two game set. The Nuggets are 23-15, which puts them in fourth place in the Western Conference. The Mavs are 22-17, which puts them directly behind Denver in fifth place.

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