In a game packed with drama, record-breaking performances, and last-second heartbreak, Nikola Jokic delivered a night to remember. The Denver Nuggets superstar put up a career-high 61 points along with 11 rebounds and 10 assists, notching one of the most dominant triple-doubles in NBA history.
Yet, even with Jokic’s historic feat, the Nuggets couldn’t secure the win. In a nail-biting double-overtime showdown, the Minnesota Timberwolves edged out Denver 140-139, extending their winning streak over the Nuggets to six games.
A Record Night for Nikola Jokic
Jokic’s performance placed him in elite company, making him only the third player in NBA history to record a 60-point triple-double, joining James Harden and Luka Doncic. Unlike his predecessors, though, Jokic pushed his team through double overtime, logging a grueling career-high 53 minutes on the court.
Despite his Herculean effort, Denver came up short in heartbreaking fashion. With the Nuggets leading 139-138, Minnesota had one final possession. Anthony Edwards, who had been electric in the fourth quarter and overtime, drove into traffic but made the right play, dishing the ball to Nickeil Alexander-Walker in the corner.
As Alexander-Walker released his potential game-winning three, Russell Westbrook, in an effort to contest the shot, made contact—leading to a crucial foul call with 0.1 seconds left. After an official review, Alexander-Walker stepped up to the line and sank two of his three free throws, sealing Minnesota’s victory.
Edwards’ Clutch Play Lifts Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards finished with 34 points, with an astonishing 24 of those coming in the fourth quarter and overtime. He took control late, knocking down back-to-back clutch threes in regulation and relentlessly attacking Denver’s defense.
Meanwhile, the Nuggets, missing key scorers Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., leaned heavily on Jokic. His 61-point night came on an ultra-efficient 18-of-29 shooting, but Denver struggled to find consistent help beyond their MVP. Westbrook, who had a mixed night with 12 points, seven assists, and five blocks, will likely be remembered for the ill-fated foul that cost the Nuggets the game.
Western Conference Playoff Race Heats Up
The loss has significant implications in the Western Conference standings. Denver remains in third place, but with the Lakers surging, their lead has been trimmed to just half a game. The Timberwolves, on the other hand, moved to 44-32, tying them with the Memphis Grizzlies for the sixth and final guaranteed playoff spot.
With only a few games left in the regular season, every win and loss matters. For the Nuggets, they’ll need to regroup quickly as they chase a top seed. For the Timberwolves, this victory could be the difference between a secure playoff spot and the uncertainty of the play-in tournament.
What’s Next?
Jokic’s legendary performance will go down in NBA history, but for the Nuggets, the only number that truly mattered was the final score. They’ll look to bounce back in their next matchup, while the Timberwolves ride the momentum of their statement win.
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