The Joker Strikes Again: Nikola Jokić Drops 36-21-8 Masterclass to Lift Nuggets Over Clippers 101-99 in Thrilling Game 4, Series Tied 2-2 in Western Conference Showdown
In yet another display of dominance and clutch brilliance, **Nikola Jokić**, known affectionately as “The Joker,” delivered a performance for the ages as the **Denver Nuggets edged the Los Angeles Clippers** 101-99 in a heart-stopping Game 4 showdown. With the win, the Nuggets tie the series 2-2, setting the stage for a thrilling back-half of this Western Conference clash.
Jokić finished the night with **36 points, 21 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals, and a block**, proving once again why he is one of the most unique and unguardable forces in the NBA today. The reigning Finals MVP put the Nuggets on his back in the fourth quarter, orchestrating Denver’s offense with calm precision while dominating the boards against a physically aggressive Clippers frontcourt.
A Masterclass in Composure and Clutch
What made this performance special wasn’t just the numbers—it was the **timing**. With the Clippers mounting a late rally and taking a one-point lead with under two minutes to play, Jokić responded by scoring or assisting on the Nuggets’ final three possessions, including a turnaround jumper over Ivica Zubac that gave Denver the lead for good.
“He’s not fast, he doesn’t jump high, but good luck stopping him,” said Nuggets head coach Michael Malone. “When the game gets tight, Nikola finds another gear—he sees the court like a point guard and plays like a 7-foot magician.”
The game itself was a slugfest from start to finish. The Clippers, led by **Kawhi Leonard** and **James Harden**, were relentless on defense and methodical on offense. Leonard poured in 29 points and nearly stole the game in the final seconds with a deep three that rimmed out at the buzzer.
Denver’s Grit and Defensive Stands
While Jokić was the clear star of the night, Denver’s victory was also powered by key contributions from **Aaron Gordon**, who had 16 points and 9 rebounds, and **Kentavious Caldwell-Pope**, whose perimeter defense down the stretch helped contain Harden during critical possessions.
Defensively, Denver held the Clippers to just 19 points in the fourth quarter and forced two key turnovers in the final three minutes. It was a team effort fueled by urgency and veteran poise, especially in a must-win situation on their home floor.
Series Now Up for Grabs
With the series now tied at 2-2, momentum has completely shifted. What once looked like a potential walkaway series for the Clippers after two strong wins now feels like anyone’s battle. Game 5 will move back to **Los Angeles**, where both teams will look to take control of a now best-of-three showdown.
Jokić, however, isn’t caught up in the drama.
“I just try to play the right way,” he said postgame. “Stats don’t matter if you don’t win. I’m just happy we got the win tonight.”
But for the rest of the basketball world, it’s impossible to ignore what Jokić just did. With yet another performance that blends **efficiency, power, and basketball IQ**, “The Joker” reminded us why he’s not just one of the best big men of this era—he might be one of the most *complete* players the league has ever seen.
