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Detroit Pistons’ road losing streak in Denver

Detroit Pistons forward Blake Griffin jokes with teammates and balances three basketball while warming up to face the Denver Nuggets Thursday in Denver. (AP photo)

DENVER — Nikola Jokic had 23 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists for his eighth triple-double of the season, Jamal Murray added 26 points and the Denver Nuggets’ playoff hopes received a much-needed boost with a 120-113 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night.

Will Barton hit a big basket down the stretch and later knocked down two free throws to help the Nuggets hold off a Pistons team that trailed by as many as 26 points in the third quarter.

The fading Pistons dropped their 11th straight road game despite Andre Drummond scoring 21 points and grabbing 17 rebounds. Blake Griffin added 26 points and nine assists.

Denver’s big second-half lead melted away with the Pistons heating up behind the play of Dwight Buycks, who had 19 of his 22 points after the break.

The Pistons cut the deficit to 102-97 with 6:55 remaining. Gary Harris hit a scoop shot and then had a fast-break dunk in which he was fouled. He landed awkwardly on his right leg and after a timeout he hit the free throw. He then left the game.

Detroit Pistons forward Blake Griffin, right, works the ball inside as Nuggets forward Paul Millsap defends in the first half Thursday in Denver. (AP photo)

Jokic was a handful for his center counterpart Drummond — and vice versa. Jokic had trouble with Drummond’s strength down low.

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