Jokic Rewrites NBA History With 56-Point Triple-Double: Record-Breaking Ot Performance Powers Nuggets Past Timberwolves 142-138
Nikola Jokic didn’t merely dominate Christmas Day he orchestrated a performance for the ages.
In a breathtaking overtime contest, Denver’s Serbian maestro produced one of the most extraordinary statistical achievements in NBA history, registering 56 points, 16 rebounds and 15 assists to propel the Nuggets past Minnesota 142-138. This wasn’t simply a triple-double it was a triple-double that shattered multiple league records.
The three-time MVP became the fifth player in NBA history to score 50 or more points on Christmas Day. But his most remarkable feat came during the overtime period, where Jokic erupted for 18 points the highest individual scoring output in any extra period in NBA history. The performance eclipsed Stephen Curry’s 2016 mark and transformed the decisive moments into a one-man exhibition.
His final stat line 55+ points, 15+ rebounds, 15+ assists represents uncharted territory. No player in NBA history, regular season or playoffs, has ever achieved this combination in a single game.
Anthony Edwards delivered a spectacular 44-point performance and nearly captured the spotlight, even pushing the contest to overtime with a contorted three-pointer. However, the final chapter belonged exclusively to Denver’s superstar center.
Following Minnesota’s 9-0 surge to open overtime, Jokic responded with surgical precision. He dominated inside, connected from distance, and operated with ruthless efficiency at the charity stripe (10-of-11), methodically dismantling the Timberwolves’ resistance.
The Nuggets achieved this victory despite missing three starters, but once Jokic seized control, personnel shortages became irrelevant. Jamal Murray contributed 35 points, Tim Hardaway Jr. provided 19, and by the third quarter, Jokic had already secured his 179th career triple-double, continuing his pursuit of Oscar Robertson’s all-time record.
Edwards had promised a Christmas showcase and certainly delivered his part. But Jokic delivered something else entirely controlled mayhem, executed with his signature unpredictability.