Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to a stirring 18-point comeback win over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. “The Joker” tied the sport at 127 with a brief jumper with 26 seconds left. He accomplished his heroics with an unbelievable 39-foot financial institution shot that left the Dubs and their followers shocked.
When Andrew Wiggins scored off a step-back bounce shot with half the fourth quarter virtually midway over, the Warriors had a 123-105 lead. Golden State had a 99.6% likelihood of profitable the sport. That they had the defending champs on the ropes however wilted in the long run.
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Many had been nonetheless in disbelief when the sport was over. Warriors followers who thought the sport was within the bag are in all probability nonetheless in shock. Some went on X/Twitter to react:
“What did I simply witness.”
The Golden State Warriors had a 44-24 benefit within the third quarter to guide 107-94 heading into the ultimate 12 minutes of the sport. For in regards to the first six minutes of the ultimate body, it seemed just like the Dubs had been going to cruise to the win. Golden State was primed to chop Denver’s lead within the season collection to 2-1.
Nikola Jokic confirmed why he’s the reigning NBA Finals MVP. He orchestrated Denver’s comeback with poised and exact playmaking and scoring to methodically reduce the Warriors’ lead. The Nuggets had been possible headed for a loss with out him.
Jokic had loads of assist, although. Aaron Gordon had a season-high 30 factors and repeatedly prompted hassle within the paint. Gordon’s dimension and athleticism pressured Jonathan Kuminga, Dario Saric and rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis into compromising conditions.
Jamal Murray had an excellent sport as effectively. The purpose guard had 25 factors, six assists, two rebounds and two assists. He stepped up on the defensive finish when the Nuggets desperately wanted him to.
Nikola Jokic took benefit of Draymond Inexperienced’s absence
Draymond Inexperienced’s absence damage the Golden State Warriors massive time tonight. The previous Defensive Participant of the Yr is beneath indefinite suspension by the NBA. His defensive consciousness, excessive basketball IQ and studying of the sport would have been massive elements.
When Nikola Jokic tied the sport at 127, the Golden State Warriors had Dario Saric guarding the two-time Finals MVP. Saric simply doesn’t have the majority, power and expertise to trouble “The Joker.” Inexperienced would have battled Jokic even earlier than the large man received to the put up. In opposition to Saric, Jokic simply planted himself within the put up.
Within the game-winning shot, Draymond Inexperienced might need made an even bigger distinction than Kevon Looney. Nikola Jokic obtained the ball from close to the backcourt with beneath 4 seconds left within the sport. He needed to take a few dribbles to get previous the half-court line. “Dray” could not have allowed him that type of area and luxury.
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Edited by Michael Macasero