‘Triple-double Twins’ Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook put NBA on notice with spectacular stats
Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook recorded historic triple-doubles on the same night as the Nuggets beat the Jazz 132-121.
Russell Westbrook and Nikola Jokic record historic statline en route to a Nuggest victory
Russell Westbrook and Nikola Jokic stunned the basketball world by notching historic triple-doubles in the Denver Nuggets’ 132-121 victory over the Utah Jazz. While Jokic showcased his MVP-caliber dominance, Westbrook reminded everyone why he’s still one of the most versatile players in the league, even in a backup role.
Monday night’s game was particularly significant for Westbrook, who started his 10th game of the season, filling in for Aaron Gordon. With 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, Russell Westbrook became the first player in NBA history to record a triple-double without turnovers while shooting 100% from both the field and the free-throw line. Westbrook and Nikola Jokic’s monstrous stats showed why the Nuggets are increasingly becoming a force to reckon with this season.
Russell Westbrook x Nikola Jokic Triple Double in the same game ??
— Beastbrook (@Beastbr00k0) December 31, 2024
Russ: 16/10/10 (7/7 FG, 0 TOs)
Jokic: 36/22/11 (MVP)
Brodie winning a chip with the best big to ever do it ?? pic.twitter.com/ifJpvTcfYH
Playing as a secondary option, Westbrook has embraced his role, averaging 13.5 points, 8.4 assists, and 6.3 rebounds as a starter. His leadership, hustle and tenacity on both ends of the court were evident during Denver’s decisive push, where he delivered an acrobatic defensive save and a steal that led to crucial transition points.
Nikola Jokic, on the other hand, delivered a stat line for the ages with 36 points, 22 rebounds, and 11 assists. His dominance on the boards and unselfish playmaking continue to set him apart as the engine of Denver’s offense. This performance not only fueled his MVP campaign but also pushed him to another career milestone.
Nikola Jokic creates history, fueling MVP campaign
On Monday night, Nikola Jokic created history by becoming the fastest big man since Shaquille O’Neal to achieve 15,000 career points. Jokic has cemented his place in NBA history as one of the all-time greats. With three MVP awards and a Finals MVP to his name, the Serbian sensation continues to redefine what’s possible for a center in today’s game.
Jokic’s milestone of 15,000 career points on Monday night came in yet another dominant performance. Entering the fourth quarter with 33 points, 19 rebounds, and 8 assists, he sealed the game with another triple-double. Jokic now averages 30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists in 27 games this season, leading the MVP race.
While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains a strong contender, Nikola Jokic’s consistency and impact are unparalleled. His ability to elevate the Nuggets in every aspect of the game makes him a formidable MVP candidate yet again. Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, though in the mix, trails behind as the race narrows down to Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander.
Denver’s success this season hinges heavily on Jokic’s brilliance and the support of versatile players like Russell Westbrook. Their combined effort has propelled the Nuggets to an 18-13 record and signaled to the rest of the league that they’re ready to contend for the title.
Armaan Gupta
(324 Articles Published)