Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to a 120-108 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, where he amassed 27 points, 22 rebounds, and 12 assists during Friday’s NBA action. This impressive display, marking his 15th triple-double of the season, showcasing his refreshed energy and prowess.
“We have been spoiled, and I’m sure some of us do find ourselves maybe taking it for granted,” Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. “But just remind yourself that not many guys like Nikola Jokic walk through those doors. Appreciate every opportunity that you have to watch him play.”
The Nuggets are reminded of their pre-Jokic era whenever they witness his exceptional skills on the court, a sentiment echoed by Malone, expressing how easy it is to become accustomed to Jokic’s brilliance, urging fans and players alike not to take his talents for granted, emphasizing the rarity of such a player.
“What life was like before Nikola got here,” Malone said. “I think people don’t do that. (They’re like), ‘It’s always been like this.’ No, it wasn’t. No, it wasn’t. Don’t do that. Don’t lie to yourself.”
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Jamal Murray nearly mirrored Jokic’s triple-double achievement, contributing significantly to the Nuggets’ victory with 13 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds, alongside crucial plays from Peyton Watson, especially his two key fourth-quarter 3-pointers.
“He was the X-factor for us, for sure,” Jokic said of Watson.
Watson’s performance was pivotal, scoring 14 points, 10 of which came in the final quarter, helping Denver secure their 20th home win. The team effort was notable, with seven Nuggets players hitting double figures in scoring, including an 18-point contribution from Aaron Gordon.
At the season’s midpoint, the Nuggets matched their previous season’s record at 34-16, a journey leading them to their first NBA championship. Jokic’s attitude towards maintaining competitive spirit post-championship victory was highlighted, showcasing the team’s drive to continue improving and competing at the highest level.
“I like that we are still playing with the same effort,” Jokic said. “It’s not like we won a championship, and now we’re going to go easy. I like that we still want to compete, and we still want to be better.”
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Despite missing key players Jerami Grant and Shaedon Sharpe, the Blazers showed resilience. Scoot Henderson scored 30 points, with Anfernee Simons adding 29 points, emphasizing the team’s competitive mindset and effort against Denver.
“We fought. We didn’t back down. We didn’t show them no easy respect. We came in with a win mindset,” Henderson said. “Today, effort-wise, we won.”
Denver’s game was not just about scoring but also included unique plays, such as Jokic’s volleyball-like tip passes and a notable dunk from Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, sparked by a long pass from Jokic. These moments underscore Jokic’s vision and creativity on the court.
“Every time he’s on the floor, he’s trying to make the right play,” Caldwell-Pope said. “I definitely appreciate what he does.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets, Scoot Henderson, Portland Trail Blazers Updates
As the Nuggets and Blazers prepare for their next encounter at Ball Arena, the focus remains on appreciating Jokic’s impact on the game, with both teams acknowledging the challenge of facing Denver when Jokic is in top form.
