By Joel Bartilotta, RotoWire

LAS VEGAS – The Denver Nuggets defeated the Boston Celtics, 82-69, in the Las Vegas Summer League at Cox Pavilion on Saturday.

The Celtics led, 29-28, at halftime, but the Nuggets took control in the second half, outscoring Boston, 52-38. Denver’s defense led the way, both in the paint and on the perimeter. The Nuggets grabbed 31 defensive rebounds, allowing the Celtics (1-1) just two offensive boards. They also held Boston to 4-of-18 shooting from 3-point range.

Malik Beasley and DeVaughn Akoon Purcell each totaled 19 points and three steals to lead the Nuggets (2-0). Monte Morris finished with 14 points and six assists.

Jabari Bird was the lone Celtic to score in double figures, finishing with 24 points and three steals. Pierria Henry had nine points, four rebounds, three assists and four steals, and Hassan Martin led the bench with eight points and seven boards.

Both teams play Monday, with Denver squaring off against the Milwaukee Bucks and Boston facing the Charlotte Hornets.