Jokic’s Historic 56-Point Triple-Double Lifts Nuggets Past Timberwolves in Overtime

DENVER — Nikola Jokić delivered one of the most dominant performances in NBA history Thursday night, recording a 56-point triple-double to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 142–138 overtime victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Jokić added 16 rebounds and 15 assists while setting a new NBA record with 18 points in overtime, surpassing Stephen Curry’s previous mark of 17 set in 2016. His performance marked the highest overtime scoring total in both regular-season and playoff history. Jamal Murray contributed 35 points as Denver improved to 3–0 against Minnesota this season, despite missing three starters. Cameron Johnson joined Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun on the injury list after hyperextending his right knee earlier in the week. Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards scored 44 points and nearly willed the Timberwolves to a comeback. Edwards erased a 15-point deficit in the final minutes of regulation and hit a difficult three-pointer with 1.1 seconds remaining to force overtime. However, he was ejected in the extra period after receiving two technical fouls while disputing officiating calls.

Edwards had confidently predicted a big performance before the game, telling ESPN he expected at least 30 points. He exceeded that expectation, opening overtime with seven quick points as Minnesota jumped out to a 9–0 run.

Jokić responded decisively, shooting a perfect 3-for-3 from the field in overtime, including two three-pointers, and converting 10 of 11 free throws. Denver rallied from a nine-point overtime deficit, closing the game on an 11–2 run to secure the win. By the third quarter, Jokić recorded the 179th triple-double of his career, placing him two shy of Oscar Robertson for second place on the NBA’s all-time list. The Timberwolves will host the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday, while the Nuggets travel to Orlando for their next matchup.