By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Denver Nuggets came back from an early 16-point deficit to defeat the Phoenix Suns and open the 2021-22 NBA Regular Season with a win on Wednesday evening.
Following the game, Nikola Jokic made it clear that he does not feel additional pressure as the reigning NBA MVP. He was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2020-21 Regular Season becoming the first Serbian recipient and also marking the third European triumph in a row following a couple of MVP awards going to Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“I am just trying to win games. I am just happy to get the team in a position to win. If it’s shooting, passing or dribbling, defense or offense, me being a leader, I am just trying to play the game,” he explained.
The Joker credited the second unit a key part of escaping the 16-point hole to claim the W against the Suns. Experienced big Jeff Green led the bench scorers with 13 points to his name.
Jokic, 26, himself contributed a game-high 27 points. The 13 rebounds shaped his first double-double of the season. He also registered two assists and two steals over 35 minutes. However, he was held to 1/6 three-pointers, part of his 13/22 field goals for the night.
“Everybody made shots, except me,” he jokingly said reviewing on the opener, “We played good. We knew what we are doing on the floor. That is a positive.”
The Nuggets will be seeking the second win heading to their upcoming home opener opposite the San Antonio Spurs scheduled to take place on Friday. The Cleveland Cavaliers follow visiting the Ball Arena on Monday.