Denver’s superstar center moved past Hall of Famer Magic Johnson and into third place on the career list for triple-doubles by recording his 139th in a 126-114 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The three-time MVP finished with 27 points, 20 rebounds and 11 assists. But he missed some easy shots, and the Nuggets couldn’t defend the Cavs, who made a season-high 22 3-pointers and improved to 20-3.
Jokic trails only teammate Russell Westbrook (200) and Oscar Robertson (181) on the career list for triple-doubles.
“It’s something that you’re probably going to look at after you finish your career,” said Jokic, who has nine triple-doubles this season. “Right now, you don’t even think about it. But it’s a great thing. It’s really nice.”
Jokic passed Johnson in the fourth quarter, picking up his 10th assist on a pass to Michael Porter Jr., who dropped a 3-pointer from the wing with 3:37 left.
When the game ended, the personable 7-footer hugged all of the Cavs who were on the floor and a few of Cleveland’s coaches. Once he reached the locker room, Jokic was presented with a game ball for passing Johnson.