2-time MVP Nikola Jokic had a historic performance against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight. He scored a monster triple-double with 26 points, 18 assists, and 16 rebounds. Unfortunately, the Joker?s performance went in vain as Zion Williamson and Co. beat the Denver Nuggets 115-110 in a thrilling match-up.

Here are three key takeaways from Nikola Jokic?s spoilt night.

1. The Denver Nuggets need Jamal Murray to win it all

Nikola Jokic and Co. have performed great this season so far. The defending Champions have continued their incredible form from last season, and the Joker is playing at an MVP level. But the Nuggets are missing an important piece that helped them win the title last season. Jamal Murray has been out of the line-up due to a hamstring injury. Murray injured his hamstring in a game against the Chicago Bulls earlier this month. Before the injury, Murray was averaging 16.3 points and 7.4 assists. Denver needs their second superstar back in the line-up if they want to win back-to-back Championships. Even though Jokic is putting up monster numbers, it will be difficult for him to carry his team to another Championship without his co-star Jamal Murray when every team in the league has improved their roster.

2. Nikola Jokic might win his 3rd MVP this year

Even though the Denver Nuggets lost to the New Orleans Pelicans, Nikola Jokic did his part to keep his team alive till the last second. His monster triple-double proved that Jokic is still one of the best players in the league. Jokic is currently the frontrunner to win the MVP trophy this season, averaging 30 points, 13.9 rebounds, and 8.4 assists. This might be the year the Joker bags his third MVP trophy and creates history. Apart from his individual success, Jokic?s stats are helping his team win games. The Nuggets are currently the best team in the Western Conference with a 9-3 record, and that will factor in the MVP voting at the end of the season.

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3. New Orleans Pelicans are great with Zion Williamson

The New Orleans Pelicans have had terrible luck for the past few years. Despite drafting one of the most talented young players in NBA history, Zion Williamson, they have struggled to find much success in the playoffs. A major reason for their struggles has been the health of Zion. The 23-year-old Power Forward has missed a significant number of games throughout his young career due to injury. But when Zion is healthy, he plays like one of the best players in the league. Zion has played 9 games this season and is looking in great shape. He is averaging 21.3 points and 6.6 assists so far. Even tonight, Zion?s 26-point performance helped his team get the win over the defending Champions. If Williamson stays healthy throughout the season, the Pelicans will be a major threat in the playoffs.

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