The Denver Nuggets easily cruised to a victory when they hosted the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night. After the game, Nuggets swingman Monte Morris had high praise for teammate Nikola Jokic after witnessing yet another impressive performance from the All-Star big man.
“He doesn't get a lot of credit as he should, maybe because he (isn't) flashy with the dunks,” Morris said. “He's got a touch I've never really seen. He's definitely a future Hall of Famer.”
After a tight first quarter between the two teams, the Nuggets used a 34-point outburst in the second quarter to create separation from their opponent. Denver continued its scoring in the succeeding quarters to emerge victorious with a 119-101 victory.
Nikola Jokic was once again at the forefront of his team's attack. He tallied 27 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists in a span of three quarters before calling it an early night. Morris added 15 points and five assists of his own off the bench. Five other Nuggets players also scored in double digits to contribute to the team.
On the other side, Lu Dort broke out with 20 points and five rebounds, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ended with 14 points, five rebounds, and seven assists. The victory helped the Nuggets improve to a 7-7 record, with the Thunder dropping to a 6-7 tally.
Jokic has been on a tear with his all-around performances in his bid to lead the Nuggets back on the right track after a slow start to the season. For the season, the big man is averaging a triple-double of 25.1 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 10.0 assists while shooting an impressive 57.3% from the field. Assuming Denver continues to improve upon its record, he's looking like a top MVP candidate.
Nikola Jokic will need to be at his best once again as they face a tough assignment in the Phoenix Suns on Jan. 22.