The Denver Nuggets and Philadelphia 76ers started off their matchup trading baskets back and forth as both sides were putting up a flurry of points. About midway through the first quarter, the 76ers were taking advantage of Denver’s turnovers and knocking down 3-point shots as they stretched their lead to as many as 17 points against Denver’s starting unit. However, after a couple of Denver’s second unit guys got into the game, Denver went on a quick run that had them back within nine points. They couldn’t maintain that as the 76ers finished the period strong to lead 37-22 heading into the second quarter.