Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic had the most efficient 50-point game by a center in NBA history on Wednesday night, posting 55 points on 78.3% shooting (18-of-23). His historic night also helped the Nuggets extend their winning streak to six games and improve to 9-2 for the season.
However, the Nuggets were dealt some injury concerns during the 130-116 victory over the LA Clippers, as Cameron Johnson (arm) and Christian Braun (ankle) left the game in the first half and did not return to action. While Johnson played just eight minutes before leaving for the locker room in the first quarter, Braun tried to return late in the first half but was unable to play due to his ankle issue.
Two Nuggets Starters Go Down
The injuries to Johnson and Braun meant Nuggets head coach David Adelman gave extended minutes to Spencer Jones, Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway.
It’s unknown if either Johnson or Braun will be ready for Saturday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, per Mile High Sports.
The Nuggets would hope that Braun and Johnson, Denver’s two best perimeter defenders this season, are not sidelined for a long period. Unlike last season, this year’s Nuggets are excellent on the defensive end, ranking second in the league in defensive rating (109.4), behind only the mighty Oklahoma City Thunder (103.0).
A big reason for their improved defense is Johnson replacing Michael Porter Jr. in the starting unit. While Johnson isn’t nearly as offensively potent as MPJ, he’s far superior defensively, with the ability to guard up to four positions.
Nikola Jokic on Historic Run
The injuries notwithstanding, the Nuggets have ample reason to be excited about the 2025-26 season, particularly the start made by their franchise star, Nikola Jokic.
The Serbian star on Wednesday became just the fourth player to score 55 points on 78% shooting, just 24 hours after posting 35 points on 84% shooting against the Sacramento Kings. According to OPTA Stats, Jokic is the first player in NBA history to tally over 90 points on 80% shooting over a span of back-to-back games.
Many felt Jokic deserved to win his fourth MVP award last year, when he averaged a triple-double on 57.5% shooting — recording the most efficient season in NBA history.
This year, Jokic will once again face stiff competition from reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Doncic, Victor Wembanyama and Giannis Antetokounmpo in his quest for a fourth MVP. Only five players in history — LeBron James, Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar — have won more MVP awards.
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