Nikola Jokic was in a good mood after the Denver Nuggets defeated the Sacramento Kings 132-123. Speaking after the game, Jokic proclaimed that his current stretch of form is the best basketball of his career. He added that his current conditioning, combined with his shooting and overall influence on the game has him feeling very positive about himself.
“I think I said it, this is the best basketball of my life, that I have ever played. I’m feeling good out there. I’m in shape, the ball is going in. I’m feeling good. I think I can influence the game on different levels. I think I’m playing really good right now.”
Nikola Jokic was absolutely phenomenal last night against the Sacramento Kings, putting up yet another triple-double with 35 points (12-19 FG), 22 rebounds, 17 assists, one steal, and two blocks. It was yet another historic showcase from the reigning three-time NBA MVP. Tonight marked Jokic’s fifth consecutive triple-double in the last five games, and his 20th for the entire season.
It looks like Jokic has a strong chance to win his fourth MVP this year, as he’s averaging a triple-double for the season with 30.2 points, 13.4 rebounds, 10.1 assists, 1.9 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game while shooting 56.4% from the field, 47.9% from the three-point line, and 81.4% from the free-throw line.
He has taken things to another level in the last 10 games, averaging 28.0 points, 14.9 rebounds, 11.5 assists, 2.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game while shooting 56.8% from the field, 43.8% from beyond the arc, and 86.6% from the free-throw line. This improvement in form has paid off for the Nuggets, as they went 8-2 in these last 10 games.
The Nuggets, despite a rocky start to the season, have found their form, as they currently sit fourth in the Western Conference with a 28-16 record. And if he continues playing this way, they could climb even higher as the season goes on.
Westbrook Calls Jokic The Best In The World
While speaking to reporters last night, Russell Westbrook had kind words to share when it came to Nikola Jokic. While thanking the Nuggets for not only bringing him in but also letting him be himself, Westbrook called Jokic the best player in the world and shared his gratitude for being able to play with him.
“I’m grateful for them allowing me to come here, and then second, getting here and allowing me to be who I’ve been my entire career. Nikola has been a huge advocate for the betterment of the team. I’m grateful to share the court with the best player in the world and I don’t take the opportunity for granted..”
Since signing with the Nuggets, Westbrook has experienced a career resurgence. This season, he is averaging 13.1 points, 6.5 assists, 5.0 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game while shooting 47.1% from the field, 34.6% from deep, and 63.2% from the free-throw line.
Compare this to his numbers last season on the Clippers, and you see just how much better he is. Last season, Russ averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game, while shooting 45.4% from the field, 27.3% from beyond the arc, and 68.8% from the free-throw line. Outside of his rebounding and free-throw percentage, Westbrook’s numbers have improved in every major statistical category.
This example with Westbrook shows that Jokic hasn’t just been playing really well himself, but he has elevated the team around him. The Nuggets are 2-4 this season when Jokic doesn’t play, and are 26-12 when he does play. So clearly, his presence has a very positive impact on the team.
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