Jokic’s Triple-Double Fuels Nuggets’ Seventh Consecutive Win

The Denver Nuggets secured their seventh consecutive victory with a dynamic performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves, winning 123-112 on March 2, 2024. Leading the charge was Nikola Jokic, who recorded a triple-double with 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists. Jokic’s contributions were complemented by three other players, each scoring 23 points: Tim Hardaway Jr., Aaron Gordon, and Jamal Murray.

The game, held at the Target Center in Minneapolis, saw the Timberwolves initially take control, leading 60-55 at halftime. However, the Nuggets rallied in the second half, outscoring their opponents in both the third and fourth quarters. This victory ended the Timberwolves’ four-game winning streak.

In the wake of the game, a technical issue with the NBA’s courtside statistics system emerged. The system froze late in the third quarter when statisticians attempted to record a double foul with 2:08 remaining. According to a Timberwolves employee, the final statistics were only made available several hours after the game concluded.

Despite missing two key starting forwards, Christian Braun and Cam Johnson, due to injuries sustained in a previous game against the Los Angeles Clippers, the Nuggets managed to maintain their momentum. Braun is expected to be sidelined for at least six weeks due to a left ankle sprain.

The matchup holds significance, as the Northwest Division rivals have faced each other in the playoffs twice in the past three years. Last season, the Timberwolves swept the regular-season series, but the Nuggets have emerged victorious in both encounters this season. The last meeting in Minneapolis occurred in October, where Denver overcame an eight-point halftime deficit, ultimately winning 127-114.

Looking ahead, the Nuggets will host the Chicago Bulls on March 4, while the Timberwolves will face the Dallas Mavericks on the same day. The ongoing rivalry continues to heat up as both teams prepare for their upcoming games.