Nikola Jokic’s Mysterious Absence
Alright, hoop heads, let’s dive into the latest buzz from the Mile High City. Nikola Jokic, the Serbian sensation and three-time MVP, has been missing in action for a week now. The Nuggets have kept it hush-hush, only saying it’s due to family matters. Denver’s been feeling his absence, dropping games to New Orleans and Memphis before finally snagging a win against the Grizzlies. Coach Malone was as clueless as the rest of us about Jokic’s return for Friday’s showdown with the Mavericks. “I have no idea about Friday,” he admitted. So, we wait and see.
Westbrook’s Historic Night
Meanwhile, Tuesday was a night to remember for Russell Westbrook. The man just made NBA history by hitting his 200th triple-double, becoming the first to do so. Talk about a stat-stuffing legend! He wrapped up the game with 12 points, 10 boards, and 14 dimes, sealing the deal in a 122-100 victory over Memphis. And get this, with just 1:28 left, he snagged that crucial rebound off a Dario Saric miss. But Westbrook wasn’t thanking Saric for the missโnah, he was grateful for the clutch three-pointer Saric nailed later to ice the game. Classic Russ humor right there.
Jokic’s Impact and Malone’s Game Plan
Coach Malone had some thoughts on playing without their star center. “We shouldnโt play in a different way,” he said. “I think we have to play harder.” In my opinion, that’s the kind of grit and grind mentality that can keep Denver afloat until Jokic is back in action. But seriously, can you imagine the Nuggets without their MVP? It’s like trying to make a slam dunk without the ball.
Russell’s Record-Breaking Feat
Westbrook’s milestone wasn’t just any old nightโit was a celebration of persistence and talent. After the game, Russ was all smiles, thanking his teammates and reflecting on his place among legends like Oscar Robertson and Magic Johnson. “Itโs a blessing,” he said, acknowledging those who paved the way. And let’s be real, at 36, he’s still putting up numbers like a young gun. I mean, how does he keep doing it?
Asked Russell Westbrook after the game about being on the same team as the player thatโs chasing his triple-double record.
He calls Nikola Jokiฤ the best basketball player in the world and says the two can โtake turnsโ getting triple-doubles
— Katy Winge (@katywinge)
What’s Next for the Nuggets?
So, where does this leave Denver? They’re sitting pretty at fifth in the West with an 8-5 record, but the road ahead is uncertain without Jokic. Westbrook’s heroics are keeping them competitive, but can they maintain this momentum? Speaking of trades, did you catch that wild Curry rumor? Anyway, with Jokic’s return date still up in the air, the Nuggets will need every bit of that Westbrook magic.
As we look forward, one question lingers: Can the Nuggets hold their ground in the West without their MVP, or will they need a miracle run from Russ to stay in the race? Only time will tell, my friends.
