DENVER (AP) — Nikola Jokic delivered the first triple-double of the young NBA playoffs, but his statistical achievement was overshadowed by turnovers in the Denver Nuggets 105-102 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers Monday. Jokic finished with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, recording his 19th career playoff triple-double. However, his seven turnovers and four missed free throws impacted the game's outcome.
The defeat tied the first-round series 1-1 as it shifts to Los Angeles for Game 3 Thursday. Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard starred with 39 points on efficient shooting, challenging the Nuggets defense throughout the night. Jokic acknowledged the difficulty of defending Leonard, suggesting the team needed to make him hesitate more.
Los Angeles deployed various defenders, including 7-foot center Ivica Zubac, to swarm Nikola Jokic and make his shots tougher. Clippers guard James Harden noted the defensive effort has been strong in the first two games and needs to improve.
Turnovers proved a significant factor in Game 2. After committing 11 miscues in their Game 1 overtime victory, the Denver Nuggets had 20 turnovers Monday night, matching the Clippers' total from the previous game. The Nuggets gave the ball away five times in the fourth quarter, including three by Jokic, hindering their ability to build momentum.
The team also dealt with changes in organizational leadership just before the postseason began. On April 8, ownership fired both head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth with only three games remaining in the regular season. Sources report Nikola Jokic addressed his teammates after the firings, emphasizing the team's goals for the season and the need to remain united. This moment highlighted Jokic's growing comfort in his leadership voice and influence on the team.
Beyond statistics, Jokic affects teammates in less obvious ways, a phenomenon some call "The Jokic bump." Guard Christian Braun credits Jokic for his third-year improvement, noting how the MVP points out opponent tendencies and directs teammates during games. Braun, who now follows Jokic's dedicated stretching and lifting routine, is one example of players benefiting from Nikola Jokic's guidance and work ethic.
Jokic's impact extends to understanding opposing teams' strategies, sometimes moving defenders into place based on his read of the play. Former teammates like Monte Morris and Isaiah Hartenstein have spoken about learning from Jokic, whether through following his eyes for cutting cues or studying defender's eyes during handoffs.
Though he doesn't see himself as a vocal leader, Jokic believes others can learn from his approach and habits if they ask. His consistent presence and durability are a testament to the off-court work he prioritizes, influencing those around him to adopt similar dedication.
Despite the Game 2 setback marked by his turnovers, Nikola Jokic remains central to the Denver Nuggets hopes in the playoffs. His unique blend of skill, court vision, study of the game, and influence on teammates continues to define the team's identity as they navigate the postseason challenges. More NBA coverage can be found here.
