DENVER, 10 February 2026 – The Denver Nuggets and Cleveland Cavaliers met in a high-stakes cross-conference clash at Ball Arena yesterday, 9 February, showcasing two of the NBA’s most potent offences following a transformative trade deadline. The Cavaliers, bolstered by the recent acquisition of James Harden, continued their push for Eastern Conference supremacy against the reigning Western powerhouse led by Nikola Jokić.
Match Recap: Cavaliers Edge Nuggets in High-Scoring Affair
In a game defined by offensive efficiency and star power, the Cleveland Cavaliers secured a 121-114 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Monday night. Donovan Mitchell led the charge for Cleveland, continuing his stellar season form, while James Harden’s playmaking provided the Cavaliers with a new dimension that Denver struggled to contain.
The Nuggets were hampered by the absence of key defensive stoppers Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson. Despite a dominant triple-double performance from Nikola Jokić, Denver could not overcome Cleveland’s perimeter shooting. The win moves Cleveland to a 33-21 record, while Denver falls to 34-20, though they remain firmly in the hunt for the top seed in the West.
Head-to-Head and Season Comparison
The historical rivalry between these two franchises remains closely contested. Following yesterday’s result, the Nuggets hold a slight all-time regular-season edge. However, Cleveland has won both encounters in the 2025-26 season so far, including a 113-108 victory on 3 January.
| Stat Category | Denver Nuggets | Cleveland Cavaliers |
|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 Record | 34-20 | 33-21 |
| All-Time Regular Season Wins | 54 | 47 |
| Home Record | 14-11 | 17-11 |
| Leading Scorer (PPG) | Nikola Jokić (28.9) | Donovan Mitchell (28.9) |
| Leading Rebounder (RPG) | Nikola Jokić (12.2) | Evan Mobley |
Key Developments: The Harden Impact
The 2026 trade deadline has fundamentally altered the landscape for the Cavaliers. The addition of James Harden has shifted Cleveland’s offensive identity, creating a “Big Three” alongside Mitchell and Evan Mobley. While public insights suggest some concerns regarding the team’s perimeter defence after trading away several specialists, the offensive output has been undeniable. Cleveland recently defeated the Sacramento Kings 132-126 on 7 February, marking a trend of high-scoring victories.
For the Nuggets, the focus remains on health. The team has relied heavily on the trio of Jokić, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr., but the recent injuries to their defensive rotation have exposed vulnerabilities against elite scoring guards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the last game between the Nuggets and Cavaliers?
The Cleveland Cavaliers won the most recent matchup 121-114 on 9 February 2026.
What is the all-time head-to-head record?
In 101 regular-season meetings, the Denver Nuggets have won 54 games, while the Cleveland Cavaliers have won 47.
Who are the top performers for each team this season?
Nikola Jokić leads the Nuggets in points (28.9), rebounds (12.2), and assists (10.7) per game. Donovan Mitchell leads the Cavaliers in scoring with an average of 28.9 points per game, now supported by James Harden in the backcourt.
When is the next game for these teams?
The Denver Nuggets are scheduled to play again on 12 February 2026, following their home stand against Cleveland.