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Nikola Jokic · From the literal first time they stepped onto Denver’s hardwood together in late-March 2021, Nikola Jokić and his highflying frontcourt partner — often from high posts and “dunker’s spots” — have made the complexities of big-to-big passing appear easy. Should a “greatest hits” ever be created among the two’s collection, January 17, 2025’s example likely settles somewhere along the top. Pressured, but unphased as usual, with a rainbow-like outlet pass arriving his way, a pair of Miami Heat defenders approaching, and the out-of-bounds line giving a silent warning, Jokić overcomes all through trademark on-court omniscience. Already successful in capturing an over-the-head catch, Jokić multiplies his masterful sequence through an over-the-dome pass, perfectly hitting his running mate in stride for a highlight jam. Those types of only-the-Joker plays left even Miami’s road crowd in audible admiration, as Jokić, keying Denver’s brilliant 35-assist, six-turnover night, guided victory. Somewhere between mesmerizing and modest by his own box score benchmarks, the Denver Nuggets’ megastar secured a 24-point triple-double (on just 12 shots), alongside 12 rebounds, 10 assists, one steal, and a 3-pointer. · State of Mint