Jokic’s 56-point triple-double, record OT outburst carry Nuggets past Timberwolves
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CONTENT:
Nikola Jokic piled up 56 points, 16 rebounds and 15 assists and scored an NBA-record 18 points in overtime, steering the Denver Nuggets to a 142-138 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night in Denver.
The two-time MVP eclipsed Stephen Curry’s mark of 17 overtime points set in 2016, establishing the highest single-game overtime total in league history for either the regular season or playoffs.
Jokic went 3-for-3 from the field and 10-for-11 at the foul line during the extra five minutes, where Denver erased a nine-point deficit. His performance delivered Denver’s third win in as many meetings with Minnesota this season.
Key numbers
- 56 points, 16 rebounds, 15 assists — Jokic’s triple-double
- 18 overtime points — new NBA record
- 35 points — Jamal Murray’s contribution for Denver
- 44 points — Anthony Edwards for Minnesota before his ejection
Edwards, who had predicted a “big” Christmas showing, sparked a 15-point Timberwolves comeback in the final 5:30 of regulation and forced overtime with a twisting three-pointer with 1.1 seconds left, knotting the score at 115-115. He added seven quick points to open overtime, but was tossed after receiving two technical fouls while disputing calls.
Denver entered the night without three starters. Forward Cameron Johnson hyperextended his right knee Tuesday in Dallas, joining Aaron Gordon (hamstring) and Christian Braun (ankle) on the sideline. Tim Hardaway Jr., starting in Johnson’s place, supplied 19 points.
By halftime of the third quarter, Jokic secured the 179th triple-double of his career, moving within two of Oscar Robertson for second on the NBA’s all-time list.
What’s next
The Timberwolves host the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday, while the Nuggets travel to face the Orlando Magic the same night.
Source: ESPN
