Eddie Johnson Leads Kings to 123-117 Win Over Nuggets

Eddie Johnson scored 14 of his 26 points in the final period to lead the Sacramento Kings to a 123-117 victory over the Denver Nuggets Thursday night.

The Kings broke away from an 87-87 tie at the end of the third period on the strength of Johnson’s performance and a 9-point effort by Otis Thorpe, who had 28 points.

Alex English topped Denver with 30 points, and Lafayette Lever added 21.

Sacramento, winner of 9 of its last 13 games, took a 114-102 lead on a three-point basket by Johnson with 2:19 remaining. Consecutive three-point baskets by Mark Alarie reduced the advantage with 1:48 left, but Sacramento held on.