Nikola Jokic delivered his second straight triple-double—22 points, 17 assists, and 14 rebounds—as the Denver Nuggets snapped a three-game losing streak with a dominant 136-120 win over the Chicago Bulls. Jamal Murray’s 28 points and 11 assists, combined with Jokic’s brilliance, ensured Denver’s resilience in a critical fourth-quarter comeback.
A Masterclass from the Reigning MVP
Nikola Jokic’s historic 2025-2026 season continues to build upon his legacy. Securing his 19th triple-double of the season—22 points, 17 assists, and 14 rebounds—Jokic showcased why he remains the fulcrum of the Nuggets’ championship ambition. This performance, marking his second triple-double in as many games, underscores his unmatched all-around excellence.
While the Bulls started strong, surging to a 104-97 lead entering the fourth quarter, Denver’s attack quickly pivoted. The fourth quarter belonged entirely to Jokic and company. A 20-2 Nuggets run to start the period brought the momentum back to Denver, a shift sealed by consecutive 3-pointers from Jokic and Julian Strawther. This decisive play highlighted Jokic’s ability to control tempo and dictate play on both ends of the floor.
Murray’s Supporting Role: The Backcourt Maestro
Jamal Murray is once again proving to be Jokic’s perfect scoring counterpart. His 28 points and 11 assists aren’t just supplementary—they are essential to Denver’s offensive chemistry. The Murray-Jokic tandem remains one of the NBA’s most feared duos, blending creativity with relentless execution.
Bulls’ Struggles: A Fourth Quarter to Forget
The Chicago Bulls, now on a four-game losing streak, faced a familiar fourth-quarter issue. After a competitive first three quarters, the offense dried up. The Bulls went over six minutes without a field goal in the fourth, finishing the quarter with just 16 points on 5-of-17 shooting. Matas Buzelis (21 points) and Collin Sexton (17 points) led the attack, but lacked the consistency to weather Denver’s surge.
The Bulls’ inability to close has defined their recent slide. In a league defined by fourth-quarter execution, Chicago is searching for answers. This loss in front of the home crowd adds pressure on head coach Billy Donovan to recalibrate the rotation and close games effectively.
What This Means for Denver’s Playoff Push
After losses to Detroit and New York, the Nuggets badly needed momentum. This win—especially on the road—re-establishes Denver’s contender status. The Nuggets now host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday, completing a four-game stretch that will test their roll.
Jokic’s form is undeniable. His back-to-back triple-doubles aren’t just personal achievements; they are the engine of Denver’s success. Teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Phoenix Suns are all eyeing the top of the Western Conference. Jokic’s dominance keeps Denver firmly in that conversation.
The Fourth Quarter: Momentum Reclaimed
The 20-2 run to start the fourth was the turning point. It wasn’t just the scoring; it was Denver’s tenacity on defense. The Nuggets forced turnovers, challenged every shot, and quickly translated defensive stops into fast-break points. ThisCalled the offensive spark from the bench that changed the game. Jokic’s ability to involve everyone ensured that Denver’s scoring was balanced and relentless.
Looking Ahead: Denver’s Schedule • Bulls’ Carousel of Questions
Denver returns home to face Cleveland on Monday, a game that could solidify their climb back up the Western Conference standings. The Cavaliers, a resilient defensive team, will pose a new challenge in the paint.
For the Bulls, a trip to Brooklyn on Monday represents an opportunity to regain footing. With challenges in closing games, Coach Donovan’s adjustments—especially around rotation minutes and late-game strategy—will be under intense scrutiny.
Why This Win Matters More Than Just the Standings
For the Nuggets, this wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. After consecutive losses, Denver could have spiraled. Instead, they delivered their best quarter of the season when it mattered most. Jokic’s command of the offense, Murray’s scoring proficiency, and role-players stepping into moments (like Strawther’s clutch 3-pointers) confirmed Denver’s depth.
This team has won with different heroes throughout the season. Today, Jokic and Murray carried the load, reminding everyone why they are the identity of Denver basketball. If Jokic can maintain this level of play—and history suggests he can—the Nuggets will be formidable come playoff time.
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