It wasn't easy, but the Denver Nuggets pulled out a thrilling overtime win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night thanks to a game-winning three from Aaron Gordon with just seconds left in the extra period. But, that wouldn't have happened if Nikola Jokic didn't dish a nifty cross-court pass to Gordon for the open look.
The Joker was an absolute beast vs. LA, erupting for 49 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists. While many people believed that assist for the winner was ridiculous, the Nuggets big man didn't make much of it in his post-game interview.
Nikola Jokic could not be more subdued during his interview. He’s confused that people are surprised he made that pass. This all just seems so standard to him, but he had 49-14-10. Insane.
— T.J. McBride (@TJMcBrideNBA) January 20, 2022




Nikola Jokic really just answered questions about that pass by basically saying its normal and he makes that pass regurlaly while getting confused that people were so surprised.
How does someone shrug this dime off as just another pass? Jokic is one of a kind. https://t.co/D9U4mkIhaC
— T.J. McBride (@TJMcBrideNBA) January 20, 2022
You know you're the reigning MVP when a filthy dime like that isn't even a big deal. To be fair though, the Nuggets star does these types of things on a rather consistent basis. It just came at the perfect time in this situation. But, his ability to draw the double team which opened up Gordon in the corner proves just how great Jokic's basketball IQ is.
Jokic is absolutely in his bag right now, notching his third straight triple-double in the process and his 10th of the campaign already. With the Nuggets missing two of their best players in Michael Porter Jr and Jamal Murray, The Joker has kept this team afloat in the West while firmly putting his name in MVP conversation once again.