In a remarkable display of skill, Russell Westbrook etched his name in the NBA history books by achieving a triple-double without any turnovers while shooting a perfect 100% from both the field and the free-throw line during the Denver Nuggets' 132-121 victory over the Utah Jazz. Westbrook's impressive stat line included 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, as he joined Domantas Sabonis as the only players to accomplish this feat.
Nikola Jokic also shined in the game, recording a triple-double of his own with 36 points, 22 rebounds, and 11 assists. Jamal Murray contributed significantly with 20 points and 10 assists, showcasing Denver's offensive depth. For the Jazz, Jordan Clarkson led the scoring with 24 points, while Collin Sexton added 22 points. Despite a strong first half, where Utah led 66-64 at halftime, the Nuggets surged ahead in the third quarter, outscoring the Jazz 34-23.
Both teams faced challenges, with Denver missing Aaron Gordon due to a calf strain and Utah without John Collins for the fourth consecutive game due to a hip bruise. The Nuggets struggled during Jokic's absence on the court, but he made an immediate impact upon returning in the fourth quarter, hitting a three-pointer and assisting Westbrook for a dunk.
Utah, fielding four rookies during a crucial stretch, managed to narrow the gap to 109-107, but they ultimately faltered. The Jazz, notorious for committing turnovers, suffered 13 turnovers in the second half, which proved costly, allowing Denver to capitalize with 14 points off those mistakes. Looking ahead, the Jazz will face the New York Knicks, while the Nuggets will host the Atlanta Hawks.
