Warriors collapse after squandering 99.6% to win, followers in despair after Nikola Jokic’s shot

Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to a stirring 18-point comeback win over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. “The Joker” tied the sport at 127 with a brief jumper with 26 seconds left. He accomplished his heroics with an unimaginable 39-foot financial institution shot that left the Dubs and their followers surprised.

When Andrew Wiggins scored off a step-back soar shot with half the fourth quarter nearly midway over, the Warriors had a 123-105 lead. Golden State had a 99.6% probability of profitable the sport. That they had the defending champs on the ropes however wilted ultimately.

Many have been nonetheless in disbelief when the sport was over. Warriors followers who thought the sport was within the bag are most likely nonetheless in shock. Some went on X/Twitter to react:

“What did I just witness.”

The Golden State Warriors had a 44-24 benefit within the third quarter to guide 107-94 heading into the ultimate 12 minutes of the sport. For concerning the first six minutes of the ultimate body, it appeared just like the Dubs have been going to cruise to the win. Golden State was primed to chop Denver’s lead within the season collection to 2-1.

Nikola Jokic confirmed why he’s the reigning NBA Finals MVP. He orchestrated Denver’s comeback with poised and exact playmaking and scoring to methodically minimize the Warriors’ lead. The Nuggets have been seemingly headed for a loss with out him.

Jokic had loads of assist, although. Aaron Gordon had a season-high 30 factors and repeatedly induced bother within the paint. Gordon’s measurement and athleticism compelled Jonathan Kuminga, Dario Saric and rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis into compromising conditions.

Jamal Murray had an excellent recreation as nicely. The purpose guard had 25 factors, six assists, two rebounds and two assists. He stepped up on the defensive finish when the Nuggets desperately wanted him to.

Nikola Jokic took benefit of Draymond Inexperienced’s absence

Draymond Green’s absence harm the Golden State Warriors massive time tonight. The previous Defensive Participant of the Yr is below indefinite suspension by the NBA. His defensive consciousness, excessive basketball IQ and studying of the sport would have been massive components.

When Nikola Jokic tied the sport at 127, the Golden State Warriors had Dario Saric guarding the two-time Finals MVP. Saric simply doesn’t have the majority, energy and abilities to hassle “The Joker.” Inexperienced would have battled Jokic even earlier than the large man acquired to the publish. In opposition to Saric, Jokic simply planted himself within the publish.

Within the game-winning shot, Draymond Inexperienced might need made an even bigger distinction than Kevon Looney. Nikola Jokic acquired the ball from close to the backcourt with below 4 seconds left within the recreation. He needed to take a few dribbles to get previous the half-court line. “Dray” could not have allowed him that sort of area and luxury.