CLEVELAND — Nikola Jokic showcased his extraordinary talent on the basketball court once again, performing feats that often seem almost otherworldly. On Thursday night, in a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Denver Nuggets’ star center made history by surpassing the legendary Magic Johnson for third place on the all-time list for triple-doubles, notching his 139th career triple-double despite a 126-114 defeat.
Jokic’s impressive stat line included 27 points, 20 rebounds, and 11 assists. However, his performance wasn’t without flaws; he missed several straightforward shots while the Nuggets struggled to contain the Cavaliers’ offense, which set a new season-high by sinking 22 three-pointers, elevating their record to 20-3.
With this accomplishment, Jokic only trails his teammate Russell Westbrook (200) and Oscar Robertson (181) in the all-time triple-double rankings. “It’s something that you’re probably going to look at after you finish your career,” Jokic reflected after the game, adding, “Right now, you don’t even think about it. But it’s a great thing. It’s really nice.”
During the fourth quarter, Jokic made a significant moment happen when he assisted Michael Porter Jr. with his tenth pass, leading to a pivotal three-pointer from the corner with just over three minutes remaining. After the game concluded, Jokic shared heartfelt hugs with the Cavaliers players and coaching staff. He was subsequently honored with a game ball for his milestone achievement upon reaching the locker room.
Jamal Murray, a guard for the Nuggets, expressed his admiration for Jokic’s capabilities. “You see it with his work ethic,” Murray commented. “His touches continue to amaze me. He does everything on the court with a great attitude and has a will to win. What else?”
The night proved challenging for the Nuggets, who faced numerous defensive shortcomings. While head coach Michael Malone acknowledged Jokic’s impressive milestone, he quickly shifted his focus back to the team’s need to strengthen its identity. “We just got our butts kicked,” Malone remarked. “Obviously, I love Nikola and feel very fortunate to coach a player with his talent. He’ll go down as one of the best to ever do it. I’m happy to hear that, I really am. But I’m so much more concerned about our team right now and where we’re at.”
Malone emphasized that it wasn’t the loss that troubled him as much as the manner in which it occurred. “It’s not so much that we lost tonight. I knew coming in here would be a tall order. I just don’t like how we lost, and there is a big difference,” he concluded.
