Nikola Jokic Joins NBA Legends After Game 1 Heroics
Nikola Jokic delivered a remarkable performance in Game 1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, placing him alongside NBA greats Giannis Antetokounmpo, Shaquille O’Neal, and Wilt Chamberlain. Jokic posted an incredible stat line—42 points, 22 rebounds, and 6 assists—helping the Denver Nuggets mount a fourth-quarter comeback after trailing by 13 points.
With this effort, Jokic becomes just the fourth player in NBA playoff history to record at least 40 points, 20 rebounds, and 5 assists in a single game, joining an exclusive group that includes Chamberlain (1967 vs. Celtics), O’Neal (2001 vs. 76ers), and Antetokounmpo (2022 vs. Celtics).
Jokic’s impact was especially evident in the final quarter, where he scored 18 of his 42 points. The Nuggets’ comeback was also aided by a questionable decision from OKC coach Mike Daigneault, who instructed his team to foul while leading by three with only 13 seconds left. Chet Holmgren missed both free throws, and Aaron Gordon hit the game-winning three for Denver with under three seconds remaining.
Jokic’s leadership was apparent throughout, even during timeouts where he visibly energized his teammates from the bench. His dominant presence overshadowed an impressive performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who tallied 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists with only one turnover. Still, Jokic’s +10 plus-minus compared to Alexander’s -16 showcased his greater overall influence.
With this win, Denver has taken home-court advantage from the top-seeded Thunder. The question now is whether Oklahoma City can bounce back and reclaim momentum on the road—or if Denver will finish the series in Game 4 or 6.
