Westbrook's Historic Triple-Double Leads Nuggets Past Jazz

Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) looks to shoot as Utah Jazz guard Johnny Juzang, left, defends during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, in Salt Lake City. (

In a thrilling matchup between the Denver Nuggets and the Utah Jazz, Russell Westbrook etched his name in the NBA history books with a remarkable performance. Westbrook achieved a rare feat by recording a triple-double with zero turnovers while shooting a perfect 100% from the field and the free-throw line.

Westbrook's stat line included 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, making him only the second player ever to accomplish this alongside Domantas Sabonis. His flawless shooting performance of 7 for 7 from the field and 2 for 2 from the free-throw line showcased his incredible efficiency on the court.

Joining Westbrook in the spotlight was Nikola Jokic, who also notched a triple-double with an impressive 36 points, 22 rebounds, and 11 assists. Jamal Murray contributed 20 points and 10 assists to the Nuggets' victory.

Nikola Jokic also achieves a triple-double with 36 points, 22 rebounds, and 11 assists.

Westbrook records triple-double with zero turnovers and perfect shooting.

Denver Nuggets secure a 132-121 victory over Utah Jazz.

Key players Aaron Gordon and John Collins sidelined due to injuries.

Westbrook and Jokic crucial in Denver's win, while Jazz show resilience with rookies.

Despite a strong effort from the Jazz, led by Jordan Clarkson's 24 points and Collin Sexton's 22 points, Denver managed to outscore Utah in the second half to secure a 132-121 win.

Both teams were missing key players, with Aaron Gordon sidelined for Denver due to a calf strain and John Collins absent for Utah with a hip bruise.

Key Takeaways

Nuggets: Denver struggled in Jokic's absence but regained momentum when he returned in the fourth quarter, with Westbrook and Jokic connecting for crucial plays down the stretch.

Jazz: Utah experimented with a lineup featuring four rookies alongside Clarkson, showing resilience by cutting into Denver's lead in the fourth quarter.

Key Moment

A pivotal moment in the game came when Westbrook stole the ball from Sexton and converted a dunk to extend Denver's lead to 126-114 with under three minutes remaining.

Key Stat

The Jazz's turnover struggles continued in the second half, as they committed 13 turnovers leading to 14 points for Denver. In contrast, Utah had only three turnovers in the first half.

Upcoming Games

The Jazz will face the New York Knicks next, while the Nuggets are set to host the Atlanta Hawks in their next matchup.

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