In Game 3 of the NBA playoffs, Nikola Jokic faced one of the most challenging performances of his career, shooting just 8-of-25 for 20 points. He missed all 10 of his 3-point attempts and committed eight turnovers, matching a playoff career high.
Despite his struggles, Jokic remained optimistic, emphasizing the importance of the team’s victory over individual performance. After a missed jump shot at the regulation buzzer, he accepted his shortcomings and cheered on his teammates, with the Nuggets securing a crucial 113-104 overtime win against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Jokic’s All-Around Impact and Gilgeous-Alexander’s Struggles Define Intense Overtime Battle
Despite Jokic’s offensive woes, his impact on the game was still felt in other areas. In overtime, he scored the go-ahead layup, and the Nuggets’ defense stifled the Thunder, limiting them to just two points in the extra period.
The game highlighted a key defensive effort from Denver, with the team significantly ramping up its intensity when it mattered most. Jokic also contributed 16 rebounds, six assists, and two steals, showcasing his all-around play even on an off-shooting night.
Nikola Jokic (NBA)Oklahoma City’s star player, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, had a similarly difficult night, shooting 7-of-22 for 18 points. He was particularly ineffective in the fourth quarter, going just 1-of-8 from the field, and did not attempt a shot in overtime.
Gilgeous-Alexander took responsibility for his performance, acknowledging that when the game slowed down in the clutch, he failed to make the necessary plays. Despite his struggles, he remained optimistic about bouncing back in future games, stating that he was prepared to take accountability for his decisions and missed shots.
Nuggets’ Team Effort Powers Comeback as Jokic Struggles, Led by Murray and Gordon
Jalen Williams provided a strong offensive showing for the Thunder, scoring 32 points, with half of them coming in the fourth quarter. His timely 3-pointer put Oklahoma City ahead, but the Nuggets responded with a 14-2 run to close out the game.
Aaron Gordon’s clutch game-tying 3-pointer with 28 seconds left in regulation set the stage for the team’s comeback. Gordon, along with Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., contributed significantly, ensuring that Denver had enough firepower to compensate for Jokic’s off night.
While Jokic struggled, his teammates stepped up, particularly in the final moments. Murray finished with 27 points, 8 assists, and 4 steals, while Gordon added 22 points and Porter contributed 21. Their combined effort, particularly from beyond the arc, helped the Nuggets overcome their star player’s struggles.
This performance highlighted the growth of the team, with Gordon stressing that their success comes from a collective effort. Meanwhile, Gilgeous-Alexander looked forward to making adjustments and learning from his performance, remaining confident that the series was far from over.
