As Miller observes, the level of greatness emerging from the dynamic duo of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray is truly awe-inspiring. With each game, they solidify their status as one of the NBA’s most formidable pairs, captivating audiences with their skill, chemistry, and sheer determination.
Mike Miller has been present since the inception of Nikola Jokic’s journey. Even before Jokic claimed the title of “Best Player in the World,” before his All-Star appearances, and prior to earning his starting spot with the Nuggets, Miller was there to witness the nascent stages of what would become the golden era of Nuggets basketball. Arriving at the franchise before the 2015-16 season, which coincided with Jokic’s rookie year, Miller had a front-row seat to witness the initial chapters of Jokic’s potentially Hall-of-Fame career.
Throughout this period, Miller consistently championed Jokic’s talent and potential. However, the question arises: did he anticipate this remarkable level of greatness? Did he foresee the trajectory of Jokic’s rise to prominence?
“After the Nuggets’ Game 3 victory in Miami,” Miller shared with DNVR, “I’m not going to sound overly optimistic and claim that I foresaw him becoming a two-time MVP and reaching this level of success. But truthfully, I did. That’s just a testament to his immense talent and his ongoing brilliance.”
In a historic Game 3, Jokic and Jamal Murray united to propel the Nuggets to their most significant victory in franchise history, triumphing 109-94 over the Heat and seizing a 2-1 series lead in the NBA Finals.
Jokic, a two-time MVP, showcased his dominance with 32 points, 21 rebounds, and 10 assists, marking the first 30-20-10 performance in NBA Finals history. Meanwhile, Murray contributed a triple-double of his own, notching 34 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. This remarkable feat made Jokic and Murray the first duo in NBA history to achieve 30-point triple-doubles in the same game.
Murray’s stellar performance included a barrage of crucial baskets that repeatedly thwarted the Heat’s comeback attempts. He effortlessly navigated past defenders like Jimmy Butler, leaving them seemingly powerless to stop him.