Nikola Jokic Sets Career-High 19 Assists in Nuggets' Win Over Pacers
The Denver Nuggets bounced back from a tough loss to the Lakers with a historic performance by Jokic, who continues to redefine the role of a center in the NBA.
- Nikola Jokic recorded 19 assists in the Nuggets' 125-116 victory over the Indiana Pacers, marking a career high and tying for the second-most assists in a game by a center in NBA history.
- Jokic is now the first center since Wilt Chamberlain in 1968 to achieve 19 assists in a game and has the most career games with 15+ assists by a non-guard, with 28 such performances.
- The win came after the Nuggets' nine-game winning streak was snapped in a 123-100 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, where turnovers and defensive lapses were highlighted as key issues.
- Jokic emphasized the need for consistent team effort, particularly in defense and reducing turnovers, as the Nuggets aim to maintain their position as championship contenders in the Western Conference.
- Aaron Gordon led Denver with 25 points, supported by strong contributions from Michael Porter Jr., Christian Braun, and Jamal Murray, showcasing the team's balanced offensive attack.