Nuggets 134-133 Hawks (Dec 5, 2025) Game Recap
Nuggets 134-133 Hawks (Dec 5, 2025) Game Recap: How Jokic Silenced the Buzzer in Atlanta
In a contest that instantly ranks among the most electrifying games of the 2025-2026 NBA season, the Denver Nuggets secured a breathtaking 134-133 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on December 5, 2025. This Nuggets 134-133 Hawks (Dec 5, 2025) Game Recap confirms that Nikola Jokic remains the league's most clutch performer, delivering the decisive basket as the clock expired in overtime.
Played at a frenetic pace, this high-scoring affair was a masterclass in offensive execution, filled with superstar duels, questionable defensive lapses, and a finish so tight it required a full video review. For the Nuggets, this win solidifies their position atop the Western Conference standings, while the Hawks are left questioning the late-game strategy that cost them a crucial home win.
The Nail-Biting Finale and Clutch Performances
The entire fourth quarter and the ensuing overtime period were played within a single possession difference. The lead changed hands six times in the final four minutes of regulation, demonstrating the offensive firepower on both sides. Yet, when the lights were brightest, the reigning MVP stepped up for Denver.
With just 4.3 seconds left in overtime and the Nuggets trailing by one point, Jamal Murray drove hard toward the lane, drawing two defenders before kicking the ball out to an open Aaron Gordon. Gordon, surprisingly, passed up the three-point look, finding Nikola Jokic near the baseline. With De'Andre Hunter draped all over him, Jokic executed a patented, awkward fadeaway jumper that kissed the glass and dropped in as the red light flashed.
Nikola Jokic's Dominance: The Triple-Double Engine
Jokic finished the night with an astronomical stat line: 40 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists. This was his third 40-point triple-double of the young season, showcasing unparalleled efficiency. His play was not just about volume; it was about precision.
As noted by analysts, Jokic shot 17-of-25 from the field (68%), a truly remarkable feat given the defensive pressure he faced, especially in the fourth quarter. His ability to control the pace of the game, slowing down moments of chaos into controlled, effective possessions, was the difference-maker. For further analysis on advanced basketball statistics, check out the Basketball Statistics on Wikipedia.
Trae Young's Reply: A Night of Daggers
Not to be outdone, Trae Young had an equally sensational performance for the Hawks. He poured in 42 points and dished out 14 assists, keeping Atlanta in the fight despite the Nuggets' superior rebounding. Young was lethal from beyond the arc, hitting six three-pointers, many of which came at crucial moments designed to quiet the Denver run.
However, Young's only major blemish came in the final possession of regulation when his attempt to draw a foul on a deep three-point attempt failed, leading to a scramble that ultimately sent the game into overtime. [Baca Juga: Trae Young Clutch Performance Analysis].
Deep Dive into the Box Score: Unsung Heroes and Key Statistics
While the focus understandably lands on the two superstars, the depth scoring and specific statistical advantages provided the foundational support for this incredible finish. The Nuggets dominated the paint, while the Hawks relied heavily on fast breaks and perimeter shooting.
Below is a snapshot of the key team statistics from the Nuggets 134-133 Hawks (Dec 5, 2025) Game Recap, highlighting the marginal differences that led to the final one-point gap:
| Statistic | Denver Nuggets | Atlanta Hawks |
|---|---|---|
| Points in the Paint | 68 | 44 |
| Rebounds (Total) | 54 | 41 |
| Turnovers | 11 | 15 |
| Bench Points | 22 | 35 |
The Bench Battle: Reserves Stepping Up
A surprising element of the game was the bench contribution, particularly for the Hawks. Bogdan Bogdanovic contributed 20 points off the bench, providing the necessary scoring punch when Trae Young rested. This output significantly overshadowed the Nuggets' reserves, proving that Atlanta's second unit depth is a genuine asset.
For Denver, however, Bruce Brown Jr. provided valuable defensive energy and timely threes, compensating for the overall low bench scoring. The coaching adjustments during the late third quarter, specifically deploying a zone defense when the bench was on, helped mitigate the impact of Atlanta's reserves. Coaches must always assess fatigue and strategic matchups; you can read more about Official NBA Game Strategy here.
Defensive Struggles and Ejections: What Went Wrong for Atlanta?
The single biggest flaw for the Hawks was the inability to contain Denver in the paint. The massive 68 points in the paint disparity suggests a lack of interior rotation and insufficient rim protection, even after the mid-game ejection of Hawks starting center Clint Capela for arguing a non-call late in the third quarter.
Capela's absence was sorely felt in the final period, allowing Jokic and Gordon to operate with far less resistance. This strategic error in discipline undoubtedly contributed to the final outcome. Team discipline and focus are critical in late-game situations, often studied by regulatory bodies like Sports Integrity Oversight.
Meanwhile, the Nuggets executed their offensive game plan flawlessly: generating wide-open looks for shooters like Michael Porter Jr. (23 points, 5-of-10 from three) whenever the Hawks double-teamed Jokic.
The Aftermath: Playoff Implications of the Nuggets 134-133 Hawks (Dec 5, 2025) Game Recap
For Denver, this gritty road win underscores their championship pedigree. Surviving a game where they were matched point-for-point by a high-powered Eastern Conference contender proves their resilience. They move to 18-5 on the season, maintaining the top seed in the West and sending a strong message that they are the team to beat.
Conversely, the Hawks drop to a disappointing 12-10, slipping slightly in the competitive East playoff picture. While their offense is explosive, their inability to close out tight games against elite competition raises serious questions about their defensive ceiling and overall coaching strategy in the clutch.
[Baca Juga: NBA Eastern Conference Standings 2025]. The focus for Atlanta now shifts to securing crucial wins in their next home stand to regain momentum lost in this devastating loss.
Conclusion
The Nuggets 134-133 Hawks (Dec 5, 2025) Game Recap will be remembered for its thrilling final seconds, showcasing a battle between two MVP candidates at the peak of their powers. Denver's victory, secured by Nikola Jokic's incredible buzzer-beater, was ultimately decided by superior rebounding, fewer turnovers, and the sheer force of Denver's MVP operating in the paint. This game wasn't just a win; it was a statement about Denver's ability to win ugly when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Who hit the game-winning shot in the Nuggets vs. Hawks game on December 5, 2025?
- A: Nikola Jokic hit a fadeaway jumper with 0.0 seconds left in overtime to secure the 134-133 win for the Nuggets.
- Q: What were the final stat lines for Nikola Jokic and Trae Young?
- A: Jokic recorded a triple-double with 40 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists. Young countered with 42 points and 14 assists.
- Q: Why was Clint Capela ejected from the game?
- A: Capela was ejected late in the third quarter after receiving two technical fouls in quick succession for arguing a non-call with the referees.
- Q: What was the main difference in team performance?
- A: The Nuggets dominated the paint scoring (68 points) and held a significant advantage in total rebounding (54-41), which proved decisive in the one-point game.
Nuggets 134-133 Hawks (Dec 5, 2025) Game Recap
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