Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets got a shot off with just one second left to beat the halftime buzzer.

In their game against the Detroit Pistons, the Nuggets ran a baseline inbound pass for Jokic. His defender was draped all over him but the big man managed to create some space, catch the ball and hoist a high-arching shot before the clock expired.

Nikola Jokic and his Nuggets entered the game with a 49-23 record for second place in the Western Conference, half a game behind the Golden State Warriors who have the first spot.

With less than 10 games remaining, the Nuggets would love to claim that first spot back to gain home-court advantage in the playoffs. It's going to be tall order especially since they're dueling with the back-to-back champions.

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Nikola Jokic saying "new year, new series..." Nuggets logo and the Lakers logo with a "vs." between the logos.

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LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D'Angelo Russell, Lakers logo on one side. On other side is Jamal Murray, Nikola Jokic, Michael Porter Jr.

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[NBA awards] Nikola Jokic next to Luka Doncic, Victor Wembanyama, Jalen Brunson, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Brett Siegel ·

Either way, this season can still be considered a success for the Nuggets squad. After five years, they're back in the playoffs. Some have doubts with regard to their lack of experience. After all, this Denver squad hasn't won a playoff series yet.

But given their stellar play throughout the season, some believe that they have the capacity to make waves in the postseason. And in the years to come, NBA fans should keep their eyes peeled. There may be a championship caliber team on the rise in Denver.