Nikola Jokic rolled up in the Joker’s suit, then performed like a court jester.
It all seemed like a bad joke, that Denver’s season would wilt away not for the usual reasons, but on account of its dependable superstar and the sudden disappearance of his immaculate touch. Jokic wasn’t the conniving villain implied by his pregame wardrobe. This was not Joker’s revenge game against the system. This was his rare turn to play the fool.
But the Nuggets refused to allow his box score to be a punchline. They buoyed Jokic, bought him just enough time until he could have the last laugh at his own expense.