Coming off back-to-back wins to begin the Western Conference Semifinals, Nikola Jokic had yet another mind-blowing performance in Game 3 vs the Suns. Even though the Joker became the first player in NBA history to record a 30-point, 17-assist, 17-rebound performance in the postseason, the Denver Nuggets suffered a tough 114-121 loss.
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HISTORIC Game 3 from Nikola Jokic!
Only player in NBA history to record 25+ points, 15+ rebounds, and 15+ assists in a Playoff game:
30 PTS
17 AST
17 REBDEN/PHX Game 4: Sun, 8pm/et on TNT pic.twitter.com/qZRZu51SPF
— NBA (@NBA) May 6, 2023
While the Colorado-based franchise stills retain the series lead, the performance by the All-Star duo of Kevin Durant and Devin Booker is concerning for Denver fans.
Carrying the team across the line, KD erupted for a staggering 39-point, 9-rebound, and 8-assist near-triple-double outing. Whereas, D-Book had a startling 47-point, 6-rebound, and 9-assist performance.
In order to stop Monty Williams’ boys from gathering momentum, it is extremely essential for the Nuggets to win Game 4 at the Footprint Center. For the same, the availability of their 2-time Most Valuable Player will be crucial.
Nikola Jokic will suit up for Game 4 against the Suns
The Serbian superstar missed 13 games in the 2022-2023 regular season, the most in his career. However, the 6-foot-11 center has played all games of the postseason without being bothered by any injuries.
Fortunately, the Nuggets have no major players missing out on the upcoming clash. This means, there is no reason for the 5-time All-Star to sit out of the battle against Devin Booker and co.
Currently averaging 31 points, 17.3 rebounds, and 9 assists in the series, he has troubled Deandre Ayton consistently.
Nikola Jokić has been the best basketball player in the world so far in these playoffs,
28.0 PPG
14.3 RPG
9.0 APG/3.3 TPG
51 2PT% (17.1 ATTS)
47.0 3PT% (4.0 ATTS)
59 TS%VS. Phoenix,
31.0 PPG
17.3 RPG
9.0 APG
53.0 FG%
40.0 3PT%
60 TS%The best offensive big ever. pic.twitter.com/mhKY7kWj70
— 👁️ (@isoheavy) May 6, 2023
Further, Jamal Murray has already recorded 2 30-point games so far this series.
With adequate support from the likes of Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon, KCP, and Bruce Brown, among others, the Nuggets will aim to bounce back and regain their 2-game series lead.