Michael Porter Jr. has been permitted to shoot on the court and vacation in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, anytime he desires. His coach, Michael Malone, even joked that he’d cover the expenses. Porter’s scoring spree has continued since his brief getaway to Mexico during the All-Star break.
The versatile forward for Denver had another outstanding shooting performance, scoring 31 points, while Nikola Jokic recorded his 22nd triple-double of the season as the Nuggets defeated the New York Knicks 113-100 on Thursday night.
Porter was incredibly efficient, making 13 of his 16 field goal attempts, including a unique dunk off the glass, and sinking both of his free throws. He also contributed three 3-pointers, surpassing Dale Ellis’ single-season team record of 192 set in 1996-97.
“I just told him, ‘Go to Cabo whenever you want. I’ll pay for it,’” quipped Nuggets coach Michael Malone. While Porter acknowledged the rejuvenating break in Cabo, he attributed his scoring success to adjustments he’s made in his game.
“But Cabo was a great break,” said Porter, who credited his improved health and playing in a career-high 69 games this season for breaking the team’s 3-point record. “I needed it for sure.”
Jokic had a dominant performance with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists, leading the Nuggets to their 13th win in 15 games since the All-Star break and placing them within striking distance of first place in the Western Conference.
“Our players deserve so much credit for their mindset and approach every single night,” remarked Malone about his team’s high level of play. The Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson’s 26 points and Isaiah Hartenstein’s 20 points, attempted to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to two points.
However, the Nuggets quickly reasserted control to secure the victory. “They just made a couple more plays than us tonight,” commented Brunson, as the Knicks’ four-game winning streak came to an end.
Jokic’s extraordinary performance drew praise from Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau, who acknowledged the challenge of containing the versatile MVP. “He’s an MVP for a reason,” said Brunson, highlighting Jokic’s impact on the game.
Despite injuries sidelining key players like OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Mitchell Robinson, the Knicks remain focused on their recovery and maintaining a competitive spirit.
