KEY POINTS

  • The Los Angeles Clippers take a 2-1 lead in their series against the Denver Nuggets
  • Nikola Jokic scored 32 points and tallied 12 rebounds in the losing effort
  • Jokic has overtaken Carmelo Anthony with the most 30-10 performances in Nuggets history

The Denver Nuggets franchise record for the most games with at least 30 points and 10 rebounds, previously held by Carmelo Anthony, was surpassed by Nikola Jokic. Despite the loss against the Los Angeles Clippers, Jokic tallied a stat line of 32 points and 12 rebounds.

While tallying seven turnovers, Jokic was also able to put up eight assists for the entire game. This is the fourth time in Jokic’s career that he was able to attain a 30-10 performance for his team. The effort of the versatile big man was able to put him above Anthony as one of the Nuggets’ top performers.

During Anthony’s stint with Denver, he proved to be one of the best scoring superstars in the league. With the variety of offensive skills, Anthony dominated as a legitimate threat from anywhere across the court. In his eight seasons with the team, he averaged 24.8 points and 6.3 rebounds a night. Despite the difference in play style with Anthony, Jokic was still able to overtake the previous Nuggets franchise player.

The Nuggets now trail the series as the Clippers take a 2-1 advantage. Led by Kawhi Leonard’s 23 points, 14 rebounds and six assists, the Los Angeles squad was able to take a 113-107 victory.

"They're talented," Jokic said by way of ESPN.

Despite six Nuggets players tallying double figures in the win, they were still unable to cool down the duo of Leonard and Paul George.

"They're favorite on paper and everything, have maybe better starting unit, more players, whatever. Coach, whatever. ... Today, we didn't close well,” Jokic continued.

Coming from a historic offensive performance in the first round of the postseason, star guard Jamal Murray was only limited to 14 points on five of 17 shooting from the field.

"The effort needs to be there to give ourselves a chance to win a game," Jokic concluded.

The Nuggets are expecting Jokic to continue playing phenomenal basketball and lead their team ahead in the series. It will be interesting to see how Denver responds in the next game and if they can gather enough to defeat the Clippers.

3. Carmelo Anthony
Not a high-flying star, but the new Knicks’ scorer has a way of baffling defenders with his dribble drives, and his under-rated outside shot. Anthony also has a fine knack for grabbing boards. Reuters
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