Nikola Jokic put up a remarkable triple-double as the Denver Nuggets claimed a 144-139 overtime win against the Brooklyn Nets on the road. In his post-game remarks, Jokic highlighted Russell Westbrook’s impressive first 20-point performance as a Nugget.
“Russ was really amazing; he kept us in the game during the third or fourth quarter,” Jokic said. “He pushed the pace, made some shots, and was really effective today.”
Jokic praised the team’s ball movement and commended Westbrook’s leadership, saying, “He’s always talking in the huddles, motivating everyone, and pushing the guys. He’s a great teammate, and it’s good to have him here.”
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Jokic acknowledged the Nuggets’ struggles despite the win, identifying areas where they needed improvement.
“We were fighting. I still think we’re not playing to our potential, but finding a way to win is what matters most. Just playing solid, taking what the game offers, and being aggressive,” said Jokic, whose 29-point, 18-rebound, and 16-assist performance adds to his MVP-caliber season.
Westbrook, overcoming a rocky start to the season, delivered his best game so far, scoring 22 points and providing five assists in just 21 minutes, making all 10 free throws and both three-point attempts.
Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray contributed 24 points each, with Gordon shooting an efficient 8-for-11 and Murray going 8-for-19, adding depth to the Nuggets’ hard-fought overtime win. Michael Porter Jr. also chipped in with 16 points, while Christian Braun added 12.
Westbrook’s season averages now stand at 9.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. The victory over the Nets brought the Nuggets to a 2-2 record, coming off another overtime win against the Raptors.
After close losses to teams like the OKC Thunder and the LA Clippers, the Nuggets have been off to a challenging start this season. Jokic’s stellar performances have kept Denver competitive, while the supporting cast, including Michael Porter Jr., Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon, has shown inconsistency compared to past seasons. Jokic is currently averaging 31.5 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 9.3 assists over four games, but the team needs more steady contributions from his teammates for a strong playoff push.
Brooklyn put up a balanced offensive effort, with seven players scoring in double digits, led by Dennis Schroder’s 28 points and 14 assists. Cam Thomas added 26 points, and Cameron Johnson contributed 20. Nic Claxton led the team in rebounds with 12.
Brooklyn opened overtime with the lead, but Denver responded with an 8-0 run to go up 133-127. Schroder’s three-pointer narrowed the gap, but Denver’s Christian Braun hit a three-pointer, and Murray’s free throw extended the lead. Despite a late three-pointer from Johnson, the Nuggets held on for the win.
