Nikola Jokic’s spectacular 42-point performance in the Nuggets’ 121-119 comeback win against the Thunder has NBA fans losing it on social media.
The Denver Nuggets stunningly beat the Oklahoma City Thunder in their Western Conference Semifinals series opener, stealing home court in the process.
It rounded out a night of scintillating NBA playoff action, which saw the Knicks grab an impressive comeback win against the Celtics.
Aaron Gordon hit the game-winner with 2.8 seconds left on the clock, pulling up from range after Chet Holmgren had missed two free throws at the other end.
Coming off a Game 7 win against the Clippers, the Nuggets are riding high. And NBA fans can’t get enough of Nikola Jokic, who’s already been compared to prime LeBron James this postseason.
This season’s MVP debate has been between two players in this series, Jokic and OKC’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. After Game 1, fans are seemingly left with no doubt.
Jokic scored 42 points, grabbed 22 rebounds, and dished out five assists. He was extremely clutch as well, with 18 points in the 4th quarter.
“That’s why he’s the MVP and everyone who says otherwise is wrong,” wrote one fan. “JOKIC IS THE REAL MVP, HE OWNS SHAI AND OKC!!! WHAT A GAME!” said another.
“This game showed who the real MVP is,” said a third fan. Other comments were similar, like this post that read, “So it’s clear as day. Jokic is light years ahead of Shai.”
Gordon also got some love, with one fan saying, “Aaron Gordon as your third option is so unfair.” Another fan wrote, “AG has ice in his veins, man, he’s him.”
There is a reason the 30-year-old Serbian is a 3-time MVP. Playing with barely any rest against a fully rested Thunder side, the Nuggets’ superstar managed to make history.
Jokic became the first player ever to have more than 40 points, 20 rebounds, five assists, and two blocks in an NBA playoff game.
He shot 51.7% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range, too. It was another efficient display from the Joker, who continues to go from strength to strength.
Game 2 of the series will take place on Wednesday, 8th May, and has now become a must-win affair for the Thunder. As for the Nuggets, another win would put them firmly in the driver’s seat.
