Nikola Jokić Makes History with Triple-Double Record as Nuggets Reach NBA Finals


May 23, 2023 10:27 am

Nikola Jokić’s exceptional postseason performance reached new heights on Monday as the Denver Nuggets star secured his third triple-double of the Western Conference finals, leading his team to a historic 113-111 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

In a game-changing moment during the second half, Jokić recorded his eighth playoff triple-double, establishing a new NBA record for the most triple-doubles in a single postseason. This incredible feat surpassed the previous record set by NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain, who achieved seven triple-doubles with the Philadelphia 76ers during the 1966-67 playoffs. Enhance your Basketball viewing experience with attractive betting odds from Nextbet.

Buoyed by clutch contributions from Jokić and Jamal Murray (25 points), the Nuggets mounted a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat the Lakers. This triumph secured the Nuggets’ first-ever appearance in the NBA Finals in their 47-year franchise history.

Jokić, a two-time MVP, concluded the game with an impressive stat line of 30 points, 14 rebounds, and 13 assists in 45 minutes on the court. His exceptional performance earned him the Magic Johnson Western Conference Finals MVP award. Throughout the series, Jokić showcased his dominance, averaging 27.8 points, 14.5 rebounds, and 11.8 assists over the course of four games.

Facing the Lakers in the Western Conference finals, Jokić exhibited an unstoppable offensive presence, reminiscent of the formidable Chamberlain. In Game 4, Jokić recorded his 10th assist with a crucial pass to guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope at the 4:39 mark of the third quarter. This led to a Lakers foul and an and-one layup, which not only gave Denver its first lead of the game but also contributed to an impressive third-quarter rally. The Nuggets, as the top seed in the West, outscored the seventh-seeded Lakers 36-16 in that quarter, establishing a 94-89 lead.

Jokić’s performance in the third quarter alone included 23 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists in 33 minutes of play. In a manner consistent with his performance throughout the season, Jokić anchored the Nuggets’ victory on Monday night while simultaneously breaking one of the many records held by one of the NBA’s all-time greats.

By achieving this milestone, Jokić has provided the Nuggets with an opportunity to replicate the success of Chamberlain’s 76ers nearly six decades ago and potentially secure the NBA championship. Follow all the latest updates from the NBA only on Nextbet Sports.