How Nikola Jokić’s Off Night Became a Turning Point for the Nuggets in Game 3 Victory

Nikola Jokić, the three-time MVP, has often been the driving force for the Denver Nuggets. He puts up impressive numbers, averaging close to a triple-double each season. The Nuggets truly rely on him; when he’s off his game, they tend to struggle. His on/off stats show a significant difference: Denver scores 22.4 more points per 100 possessions with him on the court. This season, it’s the highest mark of his career, highlighting just how crucial he is to the team’s offense.

However, Game 3 of the second-round playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder told a different story. Jokić scored only 20 points with a rough shooting percentage of 32%. He missed all 10 of his three-point attempts, a shocking stat for someone who usually boasts a much higher average. You might have expected the Nuggets to lose, given his performance, especially considering their track record in similar situations.

This time, though, his teammates rose to the occasion. They led the Nuggets to a 113-104 overtime victory, taking a 2-1 lead in the series. Coach David Adelman praised their teamwork, noting how players picked each other up throughout the game. Newcomers like Zeke Nnaji and Peyton Watson brought energy that sparked the team. “The stats don’t matter,” Adelman remarked, emphasizing the power of teamwork over individual numbers.

Jamal Murray particularly shined in the clutch, scoring 27 points and making critical plays in overtime. His performance echoed his unforgettable moments in previous playoffs, reminding fans of his ability to step up when needed. Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. also delivered strong performances, with 22 and 21 points respectively, proving that the team was deep enough to weather Jokić’s off night.

Interestingly, this was only the fifth time in franchise history that four Nuggets players—including Jokić—topped 20 points in a playoff game. Such balanced scoring can be key in playoffs where every point matters. Jokić may have had a tough game offensively, but his impact showed in other areas. He contributed 16 rebounds and set up plays, showcasing his versatility despite shooting struggles.

As Murray said after the game, “We’re a team that has each other’s backs. It’s never just one person.” This sentiment has been evident throughout the playoffs. According to recent NBA statistics, teams that can rely on multiple players in clutch moments have a much higher chance of succeeding in the postseason. The Nuggets’ ability to share the scoring load may prove pivotal as they continue their playoff run.

The Thunder missed a key chance to capitalize on Jokić’s off night, which is rare. Instead, the Nuggets showed they could still win even when their star isn’t at his best. Moving forward, analysts will be watching to see if this trend continues. If other players can consistently step up, the Nuggets may have a significant advantage in their playoff journey.

As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Game 4. If history is any indication, Jokić will likely bounce back, making it even more vital for Denver to maintain this team-oriented approach.

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