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Nikola Jokic · Statsheet stuffers and triple-double talliers could be found at every turn of the neck, as Wild West foes went play-for-play during December 16, 2024’s shootout. One could be rest assured, though, that few would handle the job as brilliantly as No. 15 of the Denver Nuggets could. Incorporating a sprinkle of defensive skill into this sequence, Nikola Jokić first sends out invitations to a “block party,” swatting away Malik Monk’s layup attempt before winning a crowded rebound battle. On to the next task before the Sacramento Kings can react, Jokić unleashes a skip-ahead pass, hitting a down-the-floor teammate for a Eurostep finish that pushes Denver’s lead to a dozen. Ready for the Kings’ inevitable comeback charge a few quarters later, Jokić blended clutch plays of every type into his highlight reel, as the Nuggets survived seven lead changes over the final minute-and-change for a victory. Big time in his box score contributions, as always, Jokić boarded Denver’s flight with 20 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists, two steals, one block, and a 3-pointer, securing his season’s 10th triple-double. · State of Mint