Nikola Jokic set a new NBA record by achieving his seventh consecutive season with at least 10 triple-doubles, leading the Denver Nuggets to a 124-101 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.
This marked the Nuggets’ third straight win, with Jokic contributing 26 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists in his 115th career regular-season triple-double.
The Nuggets also welcomed back Jamal Murray, who had missed their previous game due to ankle soreness. Murray scored 16 points, while Peyton Watson added 18, aiding the defending champion Nuggets in their triumph.
Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised Jokic’s performance, particularly highlighting his defensive play and efficiency. Malone noted Jokic’s influence in making the game easier for his team.
“Hey, with Nikola, life becomes a lot easier,” Malone said. “He’s just a heck of a player — 26 points, 10 assists, 15 boards, getting to the foul line and doing it in an efficient manner. But what I was probably most pleased about was Nikola’s defense. I wanted to be aggressive. I want to be at a level to be disruptive and I think Nikola set the tone with that tonight.”
The Nuggets, boasting a 10-1 home record, were particularly effective in defending the Nets’ 3-point attempts, limiting them to just 26.7% from beyond the arc. Jokic attributed the win to Denver’s defensive prowess, emphasizing its role in securing the victory.
“Our defense was amazing,” Jokic said. “I think defense won the game for us. It was good to have a win like that.”
The Nets, facing the challenges of back-to-back road games and the absence of Dennis Smith Jr. due to an upper-back injury, struggled against the well-rested Nuggets. Spencer Dinwiddie led Brooklyn with 17 points, supported by Cam Thomas with 13.
Denver took control in the third quarter, extending their lead with Jokic capping the quarter with a driving layup. Entering the fourth quarter with a commanding 90-67 lead, they continued to dominate, highlighted by a breakaway dunk from Christian Braun.
The Nuggets finished the game strongly, playing their reserves in the final period and maintaining a solid lead. Murray’s 14 first-half points were instrumental in Denver establishing a 52-39 halftime lead, the fewest points they’ve allowed in a half all season.
Looking ahead, the Nets will visit the Golden State Warriors, while the Nuggets are set to host the Oklahoma City Thunder in their upcoming games.
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