Nikola Jokić just delivered one of the greatest individual performances in NBA history.
The reigning MVP and two-time champion put up an insane 61-point triple-double, the most points ever in a triple-double, yet it still wasn’t enough. The Denver Nuggets fell 140-139 in double overtime to the Minnesota Timberwolves after a controversial foul by Russell Westbrook on a buzzer-beater 3-point attempt.
Let’s break down the historic performance that should’ve been remembered for all the right reasons—but ended in heartbreak for Denver.
🔥 Jokić’s 61-Point Triple-Double: A Performance for the Ages
Jokić had to take on a massive scoring load with Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. out. Matched up against Rudy Gobert, he was unstoppable:
🏀 61 Points (Career-High, Most Ever in a Triple-Double)
🎯 18-29 FG, 5-8 3PT, 20-21 FT
🔄 11 Rebounds, 10 Assists, 2 Steals
⏳ Career-High 53 Minutes Played
Jokić became just the third player ever to record a 60-point triple-double, joining James Harden (2018) and Luka Dončić (2022). But both Harden and Luka scored exactly 60—Jokić took it a step further with 61 points and did it in double overtime, making history in the process.
📊 Nuggets’ Curse? 0-3 in Jokić’s 50-Point Games
Despite his legendary night, Denver lost yet again in one of his high-scoring performances. Shockingly, the Nuggets are now 0-3 when Jokić scores 50+ points, despite his dominance.
“I feel awful for Russ.” — Nuggets coach Michael Malone
Westbrook’s mistake cost them the game, but Denver never should’ve been in that position in the first place. Jokić put them in a position to win—the supporting cast just couldn’t close the deal.
📉 Playoff Race Impact: Nuggets in Danger?
This loss could have massive consequences for the Nuggets in a tight Western Conference:
📉 Denver drops to third place, only 0.5 games ahead of the Lakers
📉 Now two games behind the Rockets for the No. 2 seed
📈 Minnesota moves up to the 6th seed, tied with Memphis
If the Nuggets can’t secure at least a top-three seed, Jokić’s MVP season could be wasted on a tougher playoff path.
💭 Final Thoughts
Jokić’s 61-point triple-double should have been remembered as one of the greatest individual games in NBA history. Instead, it ended with controversy, heartbreak, and another blown opportunity for Denver.
What do you think—was Jokić’s night the best game of the season? And can the Nuggets bounce back from this brutal loss?
Drop your thoughts in the comments! ⬇️🔥
