This isn't the San Antonio Spurs anymore.

The Denver Nuggets defeated the Dallas Mavericks 109-95 in the first game of this second-round playoff series.

The Nuggets were more athletic and physical than the Mavs, who opened up a nine-point lead early, before falling behind 51-47 at halftime.

Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavs with 28 points and 10 rebound. Jason Kidd, Jason Terry and Josh Howard each had 15 points for the Mavs.

Nene led the Nuggets with 24 points and Carmelo Anthony had 23. But the Birdman, Chris Andersen, was the real force inside for Denver. He had 11 points, six blocks and six rebounds.

Game 2 is late Tuesday night (9:30 Central) in Denver.

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