Nikola Jokic's Unbelievable Night Ends in Heartbreak
USA, DenverWed Apr 02 2025
The basketball world witnessed an extraordinary performance by Nikola Jokic, but it wasn't enough to secure a win for the Denver Nuggets. Jokic scored 61 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished out 10 assists, setting a new record for the most points in a triple-double in NBA history. This incredible feat also marked his career-high in points for a single game. Despite his heroic efforts, the Nuggets fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a thrilling double-overtime game, losing 140-139. The Serbian star's performance was a testament to his exceptional skills, but it also highlighted the challenges he faces with limited support from his teammates.
The game reached a dramatic climax when Nickeil Alexander-Walker hit two crucial free throws to seal the victory for Minnesota. Earlier, Russell Westbrook had a chance to steal the game for Denver but missed an open layup and then fouled Alexander-Walker, giving him the opportunity to win the game from the free-throw line. Alexander-Walker made the first two free throws and intentionally missed the third to end the game. This heartbreaking loss left the Nuggets coach, Michael Malone, feeling bad for his team, especially Westbrook, who had put in a tremendous effort. Malone acknowledged that the team did everything they could but ultimately didn't get the result they deserved.
Jokic's remarkable night wasn't his first historic performance this month. Earlier in March, he recorded the first 30-20-20 triple-double in league history against the Phoenix Suns. This consistent excellence further solidifies his MVP credentials. However, it also raises questions about the lack of support he receives from his teammates. While Aaron Gordon contributed with 30 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, it wasn't enough to overcome the Timberwolves' balanced attack. Minnesota had six players score in double figures, with Anthony Edwards leading the way with 34 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists. Julius Randle and Alexander-Walker each added 26 points.
The Timberwolves' win was crucial as it helped them climb to the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference, moving them closer to avoiding the play-in tournament. Meanwhile, the Nuggets remain in the No. 3 seed position. The game also featured another standout performance by Steph Curry, who scored 52 points, including 12 three-pointers, as the Golden State Warriors beat the Memphis Grizzlies 134-125. Curry's impressive night moved him up to 25th in the NBA's all-time scoring charts. The Warriors' win pushed them ahead of the Grizzlies into the No. 5 seed in the West. The Grizzlies, meanwhile, continue to struggle, losing their fourth consecutive game.
https://localnews.ai/article/nikola-jokics-unbelievable-night-ends-in-heartbreak-6e8d1bab
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questions
How does the loss impact the Nuggets' psychological preparedness for their upcoming games?
What are the potential long-term effects of relying heavily on a single player like Jokić for team success?
Were there any suspicious patterns in the scoring that might suggest foul play?
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