DENVER — In a spectacular moment during the third quarter, Nikola Jokic received an inbounds pass with just 1.7 seconds remaining, executed a swift turn, and unleashed a remarkable 66-foot shot that effortlessly swished through the net. Following the incredible shot, Jokic calmly walked towards his bench while being enveloped by teammates as the sold-out crowd erupted with excitement.
His extraordinary play might have appeared as a mere highlight in what seemed to be a comfortable victory for the Denver Nuggets over the Sacramento Kings. The Nuggets were leading 110-85 at that time but had to fend off a late surge from the Kings to ultimately secure a 132-123 victory, marking their fourth consecutive win.
Jokic’s impressive stat line included 35 points, 22 rebounds, and a season-high of 17 assists, with the long-range shot standing out among his 12 successful field goals. “This is not surprising at all,” commented Nuggets coach Michael Malone, praising Jokic’s remarkable skills.
Despite the challenge of taking a low-probability shot, Jokic’s three-point shooting percentage continues to impress. He converted 2 out of 3 attempts from beyond the arc, boosting his shooting percentage from deep to 47.9%. “When you’re on the court, your aim is to make every shot,” Jokic shared. “I took that one with the intention to make it, and I did. While it was a bit of a lucky shot, it still added valuable points to our score.”
This shot contributed to Jokic’s fifth consecutive triple-double, all achieved before the third quarter’s end, and marked his 20th triple-double of the season, leading the NBA. His ability to produce astonishing stats is evident as he is now averaging a triple-double for the season, with 30.2 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 10 assists. Just two weeks prior, he and fellow teammate Russell Westbrook became the first duo in NBA history to both record triple-doubles in the same game on multiple occasions.
On Thursday evening, Jokic reached another career milestone. According to the NBA, he joins the legendary Wilt Chamberlain as the only players in history to record a game featuring at least 35 points, 20 rebounds, and 15 assists. “I genuinely believe this is the best basketball I’ve ever played,” Jokic expressed in reflection. “I feel great on the court, I’m in shape, and shots are falling in. My performance has been on point.”
Moreover, Jokic has been selected for yet another All-Star appearance scheduled for next month in San Francisco. This most recent selection marks his seventh consecutive All-Star nod, with the last five being as a starter. “It’s truly an honor to share the floor with the elite players in this league,” he stated, acknowledging the significance of the accolade.
