Nuggets Legendary Moments: J.R. Smith’s 45-point performance

J.R. Smith never failed to entertain throughout his NBA career. And on this day in 2009, that was no exception, as the sharpshooter poured in 45 points and knocked down 11 3-pointers in a 118-98 Nuggets victory over the Sacramento Kings.

As the Nuggets were closing in on a 54-28 campaign that would ultimately result in an appearance in the 2009 Western Conference Finals, Smith provided fans with a memorable performance at Pepsi Center.

Smith, who still stands as the franchise leader in 3-pointers made with 768, really didn’t catch fire until the second quarter, when he knocked down four 3-pointers on his way to a 14-point quarter.

After scoring just three points in the third quarter, Smith…