Nikola Jokic wasted no time reminding the league why he’s its most efficient stat-stuffer. In the Denver Nuggets’ 137-131 overtime loss to the Golden State Warriors, the reigning MVP finished with 21 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists — his fourth career triple-double in a season opener.

The performance tied him with Oscar Robertson for the most in NBA history, cementing Jokic’s place in another elite statistical tier.​

This accomplishment comes just months after Jokic wrapped up a 2024–25 season where he averaged a triple-double for the year, joining Robertson and Russell Westbrook as the only players ever to do so.

Now entering his prime at 30, the Serbian center continues to redefine what dominance looks like, merging scoring efficiency with playmaking brilliance.​

Chasing the Shadow of Legends

Matching Robertson’s season-opener record adds another chapter to Jokic’s growing list of milestones. Robertson, who set that mark more than half a century ago, continues to represent an era of all-around excellence.

Jokic’s ability to tie him, while outpacing nearly all of his contemporaries like LeBron James and Luka Doncic, reflects how thoroughly he’s mastered every aspect of the modern game.​

While his shooting against the Warriors wasn’t sharp (8-for-23 from the floor, 2-for-13 from deep), Jokic’s impact went well beyond the box score. His 10 assists powered a Denver offense that saw Aaron Gordon explode for a career-high 50 points in the loss. It’s the duality of facilitator and focal point that continues to separate Jokic from his peers.​

Breaking the Record Ahead

With both consistency and health on his side, Jokic looks destined to own yet another piece of NBA history. The Nuggets’ upcoming games offer him multiple opportunities to surpass Robertson’s mark, with his next opening night in 2026 likely being the one that etches his name alone atop the list.

Beyond individual accolades, Jokic remains focused on Denver’s ultimate goal: returning to championship form after their 2023 title run.​

If history is an indicator, the Joker’s record-breaking night is a matter of when, not if. Each triple-double brings him closer to another milestone, and further solidifies his status as one of basketball’s all-time greats.