The Denver Nuggets defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 120-114 Wednesday night. In the win, Nuggets star big man Nikola Jokic joined exclusive company. Jokic finished the game with 39 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists. He shot 17 for 23 from the floor.

In doing so, Jokic joined Wilt Chamberlain, Magic Johnson and Oscar Robertson as the only players in NBA history to have 30+ point triple doubles while shooting 70% or greater three times.

Chamberlain accomplished it an astounding 10 times. Magic did it four times and Robertson did it three times.

Jokic was a runaway winner of the 2020 NBA MVP, garnering 91 of the 101 first ballots cast. He is showing in 2021 that not only was it not a mirage, but he can take his game to another level.

Jokic is averaging just under 26 points per game, to go along with almost 14 rebounds and seven assists. His rebounding has increased dramatically this season. He is actually averaging more defensive rebounds alone than he did total rebounds in any season prior.

Unfortunately, Jokic's game has not translated to as much winning this season. Even after Wednesday's win, the Nuggets are only .500 at 12-12. The team's lack of success is partially due to injury.

Denver has dealt with a rash of injuries this season. Superstar point guard Jamal Murray has been out all season with a torn ACL. Early in the season, budding superstar Michael Porter Jr. suffered a back injury and is out indefinitely.

It's difficult to overcome the loss of two All-Star level players. Long time Nuggets forward Will Barton has stepped up his game this season, in the hopes he can help keep the team afloat until they get healthy.

Denver will face the San Antonio Spurs Thursday and again Saturday in their next two games.