Nikola Jokic delivered a commanding performance with 23 points, 17 rebounds, and 15 assists as the Denver Nuggets routed the Atlanta Hawks 139-120 on Wednesday night. The three-time MVP secured his 144th career triple-double early in the third quarter, leading Denver to its third straight victory.
Jokic was nearly flawless, missing a triple-double by just one assist in the first half. The Nuggets improved to 19-13 on the season, dominating a Hawks team that had entered the game on a four-game winning streak.
Denver showcased its offensive depth with seven players scoring in double figures. Jamal Murray added 21 points, while Russell Westbrook contributed 16 points and 11 assists, providing a much-needed boost in Aaron Gordon’s absence due to a calf strain.
The Nuggets finished a perfect 21-of-21 from the free throw line and set a season-high with 44 assists.
Trae Young led the Hawks with 30 points and nine assists, but Atlanta struggled to maintain its composure during Denver’s decisive 39-14 run in the third quarter. Young and De’Andre Hunter each picked up technical fouls during the stretch.
The Hawks faltered defensively, allowing Denver to shoot 56.4% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc. Atlanta fell to 18-16 with the loss.