UPDATE: In an electrifying performance, Nikola Jokic dropped 55 points, matching the highest-scoring game of the NBA season, as the Denver Nuggets triumphed over the LA Clippers 130-116 on Wednesday night. This victory marks the Nuggets’ sixth consecutive win.
This latest achievement ties Jokic with Oklahoma City star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who also scored 55 points in a double-overtime game against Indiana on October 23, 2023. Jokic’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he dominated the first quarter with 25 points out of Denver’s 39.
Jokic continued to shine, adding 19 points in the third quarter, while sitting out most of the fourth. He finished the night shooting an impressive 18-of-23 from the field, including 5-of-6 from three-point range and making 14 of 16 free throws. Despite his scoring prowess, he narrowly missed adding to his league-leading tally of six triple-doubles, finishing with just 6 assists.
“Nikola was on fire tonight. He carried us when we needed it most,”
said Nuggets head coach Michael Malone in a post-game interview.
The Clippers, who are struggling, faced a significant setback earlier in the day with the announcement that Bradley Beal will miss the remainder of the season due to a fractured hip. They are also without Kawhi Leonard, who is sidelined with ankle and foot injuries. Despite the adversity, the Clippers kept the game competitive, even leading 68-63 at halftime after overcoming an early ten-point deficit.
James Harden led the Clippers with 23 points, making all 10 of his free throws, along with 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Jordan Miller contributed a career-high 22 points off the bench, while Ivica Zubac added 18 points as Los Angeles fell to 3-8 this season, marking their sixth consecutive loss.
As Jokic took control in the third quarter, the Nuggets surged ahead, closing the period with a commanding lead of 106-90. The Nuggets’ performance highlights their dominance as they continue to build momentum this season.
This stunning display by Jokic is not just a personal achievement; it has significant implications for the Nuggets’ season, as they aim for playoff positioning in a competitive Western Conference. Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how Jokic and his team will perform in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds and the battle for the playoffs intensifies.