Nikola Jokic says he felt "comfortable" during his first NBA Finals appearance as he led the Denver Nuggets to a Game 1 win over the Miami Heat.
Jokic starred for the Nuggets as the Western Conference team secured a 104-93 win over the Heat in Game 1 on Thursday night. Denver claimed the home win as the Serbian took control, tallying a triple-double.
The two-time MVP put up 27 points to go with 14 assists and 10 rebounds to ensure the Nuggets took the lead in the series. It was the first NBA Finals game in franchise history - and Jokic made sure the Denver fans went home happy.
His 14 assists are the most by a centre in NBA Finals history, highlighting his remarkable and unprecedented skillset. The 28-year-old admitted he was excited to get the series underway and he settled into the occasion quickly, showing few signs of being overawed by the occasion. That spells trouble for the Heat, with Jokic appearing set to be at his brilliant best on the biggest stage.
“To be honest, I couldn’t wait for the game to start, because once it started it felt normal,” Jokic said. “I think people are making something bigger than it is.
“When the game started I felt really comfortable.”
Jokic was the star of the show, but the Nuggets highlighted their remarkable depth as his teammates also contributed. Jamal Murray added 26 points, while Aaron Gordon put up 16 and Michael Porter Jr 14.
After Game 1, Nuggets head coach Michael Malone celebrated Jokic and made sure to point out that the centre - along with the Denver locker room - are only focused on securing the championship. Malone said: “I think that's the beauty of Nikola.
“I learned a long time ago the defence tells you what to do, and Nikola never forces it. One thing about Nikola is he takes great satisfaction in making plays for others. He really does. I think he takes more joy in that.
“I don't think he cares if he scored 27 points or not. He cares that we're up 1-0.”
Jokic and the Nuggets host the Heat at the Ball Arena for Game 2 on Sunday night.
