The Denver Nuggets witnessed a 39-point, 15-rebound, 10-assist performance by Nikola Jokic on what some called ‘Jokmas’, as the Nuggets secured a victory against the Rockets following an extra period, prevailing 128-125.
Jokic was disqualified due to fouls in overtime, so the responsibility fell to Jamal Murray and the Nuggets lineup without their star center to secure the final outcome. And they successfully accomplished this task.
Alperen Sengun failed to convert a three-pointer that would have evened the score in the dying moments of the extra period, and the Nuggets clung to their lead to claim the victory. Murray concluded the match with 35 points to his name.
Other notable aspects of the contest included the following.
The Reserve Unit’s Significant First-Half Performance
Jokic and the Nuggets starters began the first quarter somewhat sluggishly, but a dynamic reserve squad emerged to invigorate Denver‘s offense and defense. Peyton Watson sustained a right hip contusion early on, sidelining him for the entire first half, prompting Zeke Nnaji to join the Nuggets’ secondary rotation. He performed capably in the role.
Jonas Valanciunas established dominance in the paint throughout the initial half, accumulating 8 points with flawless 4-4 shooting. Tim Hardaway Jr. also demonstrated an assertive and precise approach. Hardaway concluded the first half having scored 10 points.
In total, the Denver team achieved a +4 scoring differential during the first quarter when Jokic was off the court. Conversely, their lead was merely +1 during the periods he was playing.
Denver’s Defensive Effort Ignites
Denver, spearheaded by their reserves, effectively stifled the Rockets’ offensive efforts in the second quarter. The Nuggets restricted Houston to just 21 points in the second quarter.
Several uncalled infractions likewise contributed to the Rockets’ exasperation. This culminated in technical foul assessments against both head coach Ime Udoka and Alperen Sengun. Such events helped forge a first-half advantage of over ten points for the Nuggets. The Denver squad seized the initiative and maintained a 58-51 advantage by halftime.
Nikola Jokic’s Dominant Fourth Quarter Display
Jokic and Alperen Sengun engaged in a continuous exchange of scoring throughout the majority of the final period, following Valanciunas’ disqualification due to fouls approximately nine minutes into the quarter. Each of the formidable centers converted challenging baskets repeatedly.
Jokic had accumulated 37 points in the fourth quarter and attempted a direct three-point shot aimed at securing victory as the clock ran out. However, his attempt ricocheted off the back of the rim, consequently forcing the contest into an extra session.
