Two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic delivered a commanding performance with 31 points and 15 rebounds, leading the Denver Nuggets to a 113-104 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night. Jamal Murray added 20 points in his sole regular season game in Canada, contributing significantly to the Nuggets’ success.
Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. each contributed 12 points, while Peyton Watson added 11, helping Denver secure its fifth win in six games. Nuggets coach Michael Malone acknowledged the team’s improvement in road games, where they have now balanced their record at 8-8.
“It wasn’t the prettiest of second halves but we’re .500 on the road now,” Malone said. “Our offense has been a lot more efficient (in road games). We’re getting back to playing our style of basketball.”
Jokic’s performance against Toronto was notable as he scored over 30 points against the Raptors for the first time, achieving the milestone of scoring 30 or more points against every NBA team. His efficient shooting and six assists, including a highlight behind-the-back pass, were central to the Nuggets’ offense.
“If you’re going to play on our team, you’d better be expecting the basketball because if you’re open, the ball will definitely find you,” Malone said. “Some of our young guys find that out the hard way.”
Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic, familiar with Jokic’s capabilities from their time with the Serbian national team, lauded Jokic for his 400th career double-double and leading the NBA with 24 double-doubles this season.
“That’s Nikola Jokic,” Rajakovic said. “It’s nothing new in this league, it’s happening every single night.”
Murray, playing in Canada, shot 9 for 22 and tied Jokic with six assists. His return to Canada was marked by a video tribute from the Raptors, acknowledging his contributions to Canadian basketball. Murray expressed his gratitude and desire to perform well in front of his home crowd.
“I appreciate Toronto for having me on the screen like that,” Murray said. “Little stuff like that means a lot. Obviously, it’s good to come here and try to put on a show for my family and friends.”
Jokic also noted the presence of a Serbian community in Toronto, adding another layer of significance to their victory.
“It’s not just him,” Jokic said. “There’s a Serbian population here, so I’m kind of glad that we won the game.”
For the Raptors, Scottie Barnes scored 30 points with 10 rebounds, closely approaching his career-high. Pascal Siakam added 18 points for Toronto. Despite their efforts, the Raptors, who had a strong home record against the Nuggets, fell short in their comeback attempt.
The game became tense in the fourth quarter when Toronto narrowed the gap to five points, but Jokic’s nine points in the final moments sealed the win for Denver. The Raptors concluded the game with 26 assists, ending a record streak of games with 30 or more assists.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets are set to visit the Brooklyn Nets, while the Raptors will face the Philadelphia 76ers, both games scheduled for Friday night.
