The Nuggets hit rock bottom on Saturday night, embarrassing themselves in Washington. They allowed the Wizards to snap a league-worst 16-game losing streak, getting just their third win of the entire season. It felt like a tipping point; they could have quit on the season and mailed it in right then and there.
But luckily, the Nuggets didn’t have time to stew on their losses; they were right back on the court one night later in Atlanta. A loss would have furthered the notion that something is seriously wrong with the team and it’s time to panic. But a win could quickly wash the bad taste out of their mouths and get things back on track.
Nuggets bounce back with monster win over Hawks, 141-111
If one game is any sign, it looks like Saturday night was a wake-up call, because we saw a completely different version of the Nuggets on Sunday night. They looked like an inspired bunch, coming out with a renewed vigor and focus on both ends that translated to a 38-23 first quarter and they never looked back from there.
They absolutely boat-raced the Hawks in Atlanta, a team that has been playing very well lately. Denver scored at least 33 points in every quarter and allowed more than 27 only once. It was a much-needed, thorough drubbing for four quarters.
Hopefully, the team got the message on Saturday night after players and media seemed to call the team out for their poor performance. The Nuggets still have a long way to go and this game certainly won’t fix everything, but it’s a vital step in the right direction. They could have turtles, but instead, they showed the fight and caring that fans have been dying to see.
Another historic effort by Nikola Jokic
The one bright spot for the Nuggets on Saturday night was Jokic, who put up a career-high 56 points to go along with 16 rebounds and 8 assists. He picked up right where he left off on Sunday, with another 48 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 more assists.
Jokic became the first player in NBA history to go for 100+ points, 30+ rebounds, and 15+ assists in a two-day span. He also became only the third player to ever have 45+ points, 10+ rebounds, and 5+ assists in consecutive games, joining Wilt Chamberlain and Elgin Baylor.
As the Nuggets’ season bounces up and down like a roller coaster, Jokic has been the face of consistency. Win or lose, you can count on the Joker showing up and putting up an MVP-caliber performance. It’s nice to see what happens when the rest of the team shows up and helps him out.