Nikola Jokic’s spectacular 42-point efficiency within the Nuggets’ 121-119 comeback win in opposition to the Thunder has NBA followers shedding it on social media.
The Denver Nuggets stunningly beat the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder of their Western Convention Semifinals collection opener, stealing house court docket within the course of.
It rounded out an evening of scintillating NBA playoff motion, which noticed the Knicks seize a powerful comeback win in opposition to the Celtics.
Aaron Gordon hit the game-winner with 2.8 seconds left on the clock, pulling up from vary after Chet Holmgren had missed two free throws on the different finish.
Coming off a Recreation 7 win in opposition to the Clippers, the Nuggets are driving excessive. And NBA followers can’t get sufficient of Nikola Jokic, who’s already been in comparison with prime LeBron James this postseason.
This season’s MVP debate has been between two gamers on this collection, Jokic and OKC’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. After Recreation 1, followers are seemingly left with little question.
Jokic scored 42 factors, grabbed 22 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists. He was extraordinarily clutch as effectively, with 18 factors within the 4th quarter.
“That’s why he’s the MVP and everybody who says in any other case is unsuitable,” wrote one fan. “JOKIC IS THE REAL MVP, HE OWNS SHAI AND OKC!!! WHAT A GAME!” stated one other.
“This recreation confirmed who the true MVP is,” stated a 3rd fan. Different feedback had been related, like this put up that learn, “So it’s clear as day. Jokic is gentle years forward of Shai.”
Gordon additionally bought some love, with one fan saying, “Aaron Gordon as your third possibility is so unfair.” One other fan wrote, “AG has ice in his veins, man, he’s him.”
There’s a cause the 30-year-old Serbian is a 3-time MVP. Taking part in with barely any relaxation in opposition to a completely rested Thunder aspect, the Nuggets’ celebrity managed to make historical past.
Jokic turned the primary participant ever to have greater than 40 factors, 20 rebounds, 5 assists, and two blocks in an NBA playoff recreation.
He shot 51.7% from the sector and 33.3% from three-point vary, too. It was one other environment friendly show from the Joker, who continues to go from energy to energy.
Recreation 2 of the collection will happen on Wednesday, eighth Could, and has now grow to be a must-win affair for the Thunder. As for the Nuggets, one other win would put them firmly within the driver’s seat.
