Nikola Jokic's Historic Return Leads Nuggets to Victory Over Clippers

Jokic's dominant 31-point, 12-rebound, 5-assist performance in just 25 minutes sparks Denver's win over NBA's hottest team.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:51am

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A cubist, geometric illustration depicting Nikola Jokic's athletic movements and dominance on the basketball court, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form capturing the energy and dynamism of his play.Nikola Jokic's masterful behind-the-back moves and historic performance propel the Nuggets to a crucial victory over the Clippers.Denver Today

In a highly anticipated return from injury, Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic delivered a historic performance, leading his team to a 122-109 victory over the red-hot Los Angeles Clippers. Jokic, who had been sidelined since December 29 with a bone bruise, reminded everyone why he's considered one of the greatest players in the NBA with a dominant 31-point, 12-rebound, 5-assist outing in just 25 minutes of play.

Why it matters

Jokic's return is a major boost for the Nuggets as they push for playoff contention, and his historic stat line underscores his unparalleled skill and impact on the game. The win over the Clippers, who had been on a 16-3 tear, also showcases the Nuggets' depth and balanced attack, raising questions about whether they can maintain this momentum without relying too heavily on their superstar center.

The details

Playing with a sleeve on his left leg, Jokic delivered two highlight-reel plays in the fourth quarter that left fans and opponents in awe. First, he executed a behind-the-back move to glide past John Collins and sink a floater over defenders. Minutes later, he delivered a behind-the-back bounce pass to Peyton Watson for a thunderous dunk that extended Denver's lead to 17. By the time Jokic walked off the court to a standing ovation, the Nuggets had secured the win over the NBA's hottest team.

  • Jokic had been sidelined since December 29 with a bone bruise.
  • The Nuggets faced the Los Angeles Clippers on April 10, 2026.

The players

Nikola Jokic

The Denver Nuggets' superstar center, considered one of the greatest players in the NBA.

Jamal Murray

A key member of the Nuggets' starting lineup, scoring 20 points in the win over the Clippers.

Peyton Watson

A Nuggets player who received a thunderous dunk pass from Jokic in the fourth quarter.

Tim Hardaway Jr.

A Nuggets player who scored 22 points but appeared to injure his ankle in the fourth quarter.

Jonas Valanciunas

A Nuggets player who contributed 11 points to the team's balanced attack.

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What they’re saying

“It's special to have Jok back in all the ways that he is the best basketball player in the world.”

— David Adelman, Nuggets Head Coach

“It's just a different feel when he's out there.”

— Jamal Murray

What’s next

The Nuggets are set to face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday, April 13, 2026, as they continue their push for playoff contention. The status of Tim Hardaway Jr.'s ankle injury will be a key factor to monitor going forward.

The takeaway

Nikola Jokic's historic return from injury has reinvigorated the Denver Nuggets, showcasing the team's depth and balanced attack. However, the Nuggets' long-term success may hinge on their ability to maintain momentum without relying too heavily on their superstar center, as evidenced by the potential injury to Tim Hardaway Jr.