TORONTO – Nikola Jokic delivered an outstanding performance with 31 points and 15 rebounds, guiding the Denver Nuggets to a 113-104 win over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night. The victory, Denver’s fifth in six games, showcased their growing form as they balanced their road record at 8-8.
Jokic, who achieved his 400th career double-double and the NBA-leading 24th of the season, shot an efficient 13 for 23 and added six assists, including a memorable behind-the-back pass to Aaron Gordon. His performance meant that he has now scored 30 or more points against every NBA team. Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised Jokic’s ability to keep everyone involved in the game, stating, “If you’re open, the ball will definitely find you.”
Canadian guard Jamal Murray also shone brightly, scoring 20 points and matching Jokic with six assists. For Murray, this game was particularly special as it marked his only regular season appearance in Canada, and the first time he has won there since December 2018. The Raptors paid tribute to Murray’s contributions to Canadian basketball, which he acknowledged appreciatively.
Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic, familiar with Jokic’s capabilities from their time together on the Serbian national team, lauded Jokic’s consistency and impact in the league.
Denver’s win was not just a display of individual brilliance but a team effort, with Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. each contributing 12 points, and Peyton Watson adding 11. The Nuggets had to overcome a significant rally by the Raptors, who narrowed a 21-point deficit to just five in the fourth quarter on a 3-pointer by Precious Achiuwa.
For Toronto, Scottie Barnes led the way with 30 points and 10 rebounds, while Pascal Siakam added 18 points. Despite their efforts, the Raptors couldn’t replicate their previous home game success against the Nuggets, where they had won five of the last seven meetings.
As the game neared its conclusion, Jokic secured the Nuggets’ win by scoring nine crucial points down the stretch, thwarting any hopes of a Raptors comeback. Malone acknowledged the game’s unexpected turn in the final quarter, indicating that it was closer than it should have been.
With this win, the Nuggets look to continue their momentum as they visit the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night. The Raptors, on the other hand, will seek to rebound from this loss as they face the Philadelphia 76ers on the same night. This game not only highlighted Jokic’s immense talent and Murray’s homecoming performance but also underscored the Nuggets’ growing cohesion and effectiveness on the road.
