As the Denver Nuggets defeated the Brooklyn Nets 124-101 on Thursday night, Nikola Jokic became the first NBA player with at least 10 triple-doubles in seven consecutive seasons. 

During the regular season, Jokic had 26 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists for his 115th career triple-double. Denver was also boosted by the return of Jamal Murray, who was injured in Tuesday’s game against Chicago. For the defending champion Nuggets, he scored 16 points and Peyton Watson added 18.

“Hey, with Nikola, life becomes a lot easier,” said Denver coach Michael Malone. “He’s just a great player – 26 points, 10 assists, 15 rebounds, getting to the foul line and doing it efficiently.” But it was Nikola’s defense that made me the most happy. I desired to be assertive. I want to be disruptive, and I think Nikola set the tone for that tonight.”

Denver, which advanced to 10-1 at home, made it difficult for Brooklyn’s 3-point shooters. The Nuggets limited the Nets to 26.7% (3 of 30) from beyond the arc.

“Our defense was amazing,” stated Jokic. “I believe our defense won the game for us.” It felt amazing to win like that.”

The Nets were playing the second of back-to-back road games and were without Dennis Smith Jr., who did not make the trip due to an upper-back ιnjury. Spencer Dinwiddie led the way with 17 points, and Cam Thomas chipped in with 13.

Brooklyn coach Jacque Vaughn stated that the Nets were facing “a rested and ready for us.” It was a difficult back-to-back, both emotionally and mentally. We simply did not have it tonight.”

With a 13-point lead at halftime, the Nuggets erupted for 38 points in the third quarter, with Jokic capping it off with a driving layup in the final seconds. They led 90-67 entering the fourth quarter and increased their lead to 103-78 midway through the period on a breakaway dunk by Christian Braun.

Denver used its reserves for much of the final period and had a double-digit advantage the rest of the way.

Murray had 14 points in the first half as the Nuggets jumped out to a 52-39 lead, the fewest points allowed in a half this season.