Nightmare Start to the Season for Nikola Jokic and Denver in Unprecedented Slump

What stood out the most was an unusually quiet outing from Nikola Jokic, who posted just 13 points, seven rebounds, and five assists—well below his standard production. It served as a stark reminder that Denver simply cannot operate at their best when the Serbian center is not playing at his usual MVP level.

Denver had a slightly better start to the contest, edging out the first two quarters 24-20 and 21-20. However, they completely fell flat in the second half as the host Oklahoma City took full control, orchestrating a seamless comeback to seal an opening-night victory.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander did not have his typical scoring night either, finishing with just 14 points, but other contributors stepped up to ensure a Thunder victory.

The turning point arrived in the third quarter, when Denver completely vanished from the floor. Oklahoma City capitalized with a 26-16 frame, seizing full momentum heading into the fourth quarter.

They managed to protect and gradually extend their cushion throughout the final period, building a lead of up to 14 points.

In the end, the final buzzer sounded on a 96-84 victory.

Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams led all scorers with 21 points, while Aaron Gordon paced the Nuggets with 20 points.

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