Nikola Jokic delivered a stellar performance, recording a 36-point, 22-rebound, 11-assist triple-double as the Denver Nuggets defeated the Utah Jazz 132-121 on Monday night. Jokic’s effort helped Denver improve to 18-13 on the season, while Utah fell to 7-24.
Russell Westbrook joined Jokic in the spotlight, making history with a flawless triple-double. Westbrook tallied 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists without committing a single turnover.
Jamal Murray added 20 points and 10 assists for Denver, providing consistent support throughout the game. Michael Porter Jr. chipped in with 21 points, while Christian Braun contributed 20 points and two blocks. The Nuggets outscored Utah 34-23 in the third quarter, building momentum to seal the victory.
For the Jazz, Jordan Clarkson led the way with 24 points off the bench, while Collin Sexton added 22. Lauri Markkanen contributed 17 points, but Utah struggled to maintain control in the second half.
Both teams were shorthanded, with Denver missing Aaron Gordon due to a right calf strain, and Utah playing without John Collins, who missed his fourth consecutive game with a hip injury. Despite the absences, Utah managed to keep the game competitive, briefly cutting Denver’s lead to 109-107 in the fourth quarter.
Denver’s bench also played a critical role, with Peyton Watson scoring 13 points and Julian Strawther adding four. Utah’s reserves, including Isaiah Collier and Cody Williams, combined for 25 points, but their contributions were not enough to offset Jokic’s dominance.