Nikola Jokic produced a near-complete all-around night, logging 40 minutes and finishing with 25 points on 11-for-19 shooting, plus 11 assists and 13 rebounds for a triple-double.
Jamal Murray, playing 39 minutes, totaled 30 points, seven assists and five rebounds. He struggled from the floor (7-for-22) and went 0-for-8 from three, but he thrived at the free-throw line, making all 16 attempts.
ESPN Insights highlighted a notable playoff milestone, noting that Jokic and Murray have combined for eight playoff games with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists apiece, tying a mark previously reached by Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.
Denver’s veteran duo remains central to the team’s ceiling, with Jokic continuing to be a staple in the MVP conversation and Murray earning his first All-Star nod in the 2025-26 season after finishing the regular season at about 25.4 points, 7.1 assists and 4.4 rebounds. The Nuggets also own a recent title from 2023, underscoring their championship ambitions.
The two teams will meet again for Game 2 on Monday, April 20, as the Nuggets look to extend their series lead.
