Nikola Jokic records 199th triple-double in Nuggets win over Pelicans

Nikola Jokic recorded the 199th regular-season triple-double of his career on Saturday, finishing with 35 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 141-135 overtime victory against the New Orleans Pelicans at Ball Arena. Facing a 23-point deficit during the contest, Jokic and guard Jamal Murray orchestrated a dramatic comeback to secure Denver’s first win of the season, moving the center within 10 triple-doubles of Russell Westbrook’s all-time NBA record of 209.

How the 23-Point Comeback Unfolded in Denver

The contest began poorly for the hosts. As reported by Diario AS, the Nuggets struggled out of the gate after dropping their season opener to the Oklahoma City Thunder. New Orleans capitalized on early defensive lapses, building a commanding advantage that stretched to 22 points in the third period and remained at 19 points as the final quarter began, according to match recaps.

Denver slowly chipped away at the deficit behind high-volume scoring and defensive stops. Jamal Murray caught fire from beyond the arc, finishing with 42 points while hitting 8 of 16 attempts from three-point range alongside six assists without a turnover. A late sequence in regulation forced the extra period when Trey Murphy III committed a turnover for New Orleans, allowing the Nuggets to take a 133-129 lead late in overtime after a crucial corner three-pointer by rookie Trevon Brazile with 1:25 remaining.

In the extra session, Jokic took over completely, scoring eight of his 35 points during overtime to seal the 141-135 final score. Alongside his scoring and assist totals, the Serbian center added 15 rebounds and four blocks. Brazile contributed 17 points and nine rebounds off the bench in his home debut, Christian Braun added 15 points, and DeMar DeRozan chipped in 12 points for a shorthanded Denver squad operating without the injured Cam Johnson (ankle) and Alpha Diallo (wrist sprain).

Pelicans Fall Short Despite Balanced Scoring

New Orleans dropped its third game to start the season under head coach Jamahl Mosley. Trey Murphy III led the visitors with 26 points, while guard Dejounte Murray added 22 points. Zion Williamson and Derik Queen each finished with 17 points apiece, but the Pelicans were unable to close out the game after squandering their large second-half lead.

Jokic Addresses Home Crowd Reaction After the Victory

Following the emotional victory, Jokic spoke candidly during his post-game press conference regarding sections of the Ball Arena crowd that booed the team during their sluggish start. In remarks highlighted by Diario AS, Jokic voiced strong displeasure with the home supporters’ reaction so early in the campaign.

“It’s the first game at home and us getting booed, I think these fans who did it shouldn’t come back anymore,” Jokic stated to reporters. “If you ask me, those people are not welcome here.”

The Chase for History and Upcoming Schedule

With his 199th career triple-double, Jokic sits 10 shy of tying Russell Westbrook’s historic benchmark of 209 regular-season triple-doubles. The victory brings Denver’s record to 1-1 as they prepare to host the Golden State Warriors at Ball Arena in two days.

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