The Golden State Warriors defeated the Denver Nuggets 128-117 on Sunday despite Nikola Jokic posting a historic 35-point, 20-rebound, 12-assist triple-double. The Warriors, missing their four highest-paid players including Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler, used an aggressive early attack and exploited Denver's fatigue from playing their third road game in four days.

Golden State's Al Horford made six 3-pointers in the first half, punishing Jokic for defending too far from the basket. The Warriors shot 15 first-half 3s and built a 14-point lead before Denver rallied in the third quarter. Brandin Podziemski then took over in the fourth, making all six of his shots for 15 points and helping secure the win with three crucial baskets down the stretch.

Jokic's triple-double marked his first dominant performance since returning from a 16-game absence due to a hyperextended knee. The two-time MVP admitted postgame that his integration back into the lineup is still a work in progress, saying he needs more games to regain his pre-injury form. Despite the loss, Jokic's performance showed flashes of his MVP-caliber play as Denver continues to adjust to his return.