NBA Playoffs: Trail Blazers Concede Game 1 To Denver Nuggets, 121 - 113

Despite dropping a game-high scoring of 39 points, six assists, and three rebound, Damian Lillard failed to lead Trail Blazers to win on the road to Denver Nuggets in Game 1 of second round of the NBA playoffs.

Trail Blazers weren't that blazing like they were against OKC in the first round of the playoffs and were a bit frustrated during the game whilst Nikola Jokic led Denver through with 37 points, 6 assists, and 9 rebounds.

After knocking down a three-pointer to cut the deficit to nine, Denver held off Lilliard from staging a comeback for Trail Blazers with 2.24 minutes remaining as Gary Harris blocked his three-point attempt.

Jokic later extended the lead knocking down two free throws as Denver in last 20 seconds and Denver conveniently won the game by 121-113.

"It was a little bit of a heated game when it came to the whistle for us," Lillard explained afterwards "Nobody got a tech, so it wasn't anything disrespectful. But when your season is on the line, you've got to be willing to challenge what's happening out there and try to out your team in the best  position to win."

However, Denver tactics to keep Lillard crowded and get the ball out of his hands or better still block his shots did work out for the team. They will host Trail Blazers in Game 2 on Thursday.