SAN FRANCISCO – Despite a historic performance from Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets suffered a 128-117 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Sunday. Jokic recorded his 81st career triple-double, with 35 points, 20 rebounds, and 12 assists, but it wasn’t enough to overcome a hot-shooting Warriors team.

Warriors Overcome Key Absences

The Warriors were without four of their highest-paid players: Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jimmy Butler. Despite these absences, Golden State shot 15 three-pointers in the first half, building a 14-point lead against a fatigued Nuggets defense. Denver was playing its third road game in four days following the All-Star break.

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr: Our whole game plan going in was just preserve the pressure on them. Try to wear them down, keep running. I reckon that was definitely a factor. We were rested, and they were not.

Jokic Expresses Concern Over Nuggets’ Consistency

While Jokic’s individual performance was exceptional, he voiced concerns about the Nuggets’ overall performance and consistency. Denver currently holds a record of 36-22, sitting third in the Western Conference, but is eight games behind the conference leader.

Nikola Jokic: I’m definitely concerned because we are losing the games, and we’re not creating open looks. So, that’s something that we need to change. Hopefully, we secure better. I don’t realize what This proves, but we need to figure it out.

Jokic has missed 17 games this season due to a hyperextended left knee, putting his eligibility for the MVP award in jeopardy. The NBA criteria state that players who miss 17 or more games are ineligible for the award.

MVP Race Heats Up

Jokic is currently second in the MVP race, trailing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He averages 28.7 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game.

Did You Know?

This was the ninth time in Nikola Jokic’s career that he has finished a game with at least 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists. In 50 seasons, only six other players have achieved this feat.

FAQ

• How many triple-doubles does Nikola Jokic have? He has 81 career triple-doubles.
• What is the Nuggets’ current record? The Nuggets are 36-22.
• Who is leading the MVP race? Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is currently leading the MVP race.