Nikola Jokic has solidified his place in NBA history as he gears up to become just the third player to finish a season with a triple-double average. In a notable game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Jokic put on a remarkable display, helping the Denver Nuggets secure a crucial 117-109 victory.
In this standout performance, the Serbian center showcased his well-rounded game by scoring 26 points, dishing out 12 assists, and pulling down an impressive 26 rebounds. This game was pivotal for the Nuggets as they are now tied for fourth place in the Western Conference with just one more game left in the regular season. Jokic’s ability to influence the game across multiple facets illustrates not only his individual talent but also his value to the team’s success.
Meanwhile, across the league, Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers had a dazzling night, scoring 39 points in a commanding 140-109 win against the Houston Rockets. This victory allowed the Lakers to secure third place in the Western Conference, further heightening the competitive atmosphere as the playoffs approach.
Jokic’s achievement of maintaining averages in double digits for points, rebounds, and assists stands as a testament to his all-around excellence on the court. Remarkably, only two players in NBA history have previously reached this milestone—Jokic’s teammate Russell Westbrook, who achieved triple-double averages three times with the Oklahoma City Thunder and once with the Washington Wizards, and Oscar Robertson, who accomplished this in the 1961-62 season while playing for the Cincinnati Royals. This places Jokic among an elite group in basketball, emphasizing his extraordinary talent and impact.
Adding to this remarkable feat, his 12 assists against the Grizzlies ensured that he would finish the season with an assist average exceeding 10 for the first time in his career. This milestone speaks volumes about his ability to not just score but also facilitate, creating scoring opportunities for his teammates and demonstrating his unselfishness on the court. With his rebounding averages also in double digits, Jokic reflects a comprehensive understanding of the game that extends beyond mere scores.
As he heads into the last game of the regular season, Jokic has an opportunity to elevate his points average above 30 by scoring 47 points, which would mark a new career high. At just 30 years old, he has already achieved the coveted title of Most Valuable Player (MVP) on three occasions, and his current season performance makes him a strong contender for the award once again. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of Oklahoma City is also mentioned among the top candidates, highlighting the fierce competition for this year’s MVP.
David Adelman, the Nuggets’ interim coach, voiced his admiration for Jokic, saying, “If he doesn’t win the MVP, it’s the greatest season of all time not to win the MVP.” This statement underscores the unprecedented nature of Jokic’s performance this season, as he continues to redefine what it means to excel in the NBA.
In terms of career achievements, Jokic has accumulated 164 regular-season triple-doubles, which ranks as the second-highest in NBA history—only trailing behind Westbrook’s record of 203. As the Nuggets prepare for their final matchup against the Houston Rockets, Jokic is determined to extend this impressive total. The Nuggets’ ambition to clinch the fourth seed in the playoff standings is crucial, as it would provide them with the valuable home-court advantage necessary for a successful postseason run. Jokic’s exceptional play will be instrumental in this endeavor, and as he continues to perform at such a high level, he remains a fundamental pillar of the Nuggets’ hopes moving forward.
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