The Nuggets defeated the Miami Heat 103-97 on Thursday night in a rematch of the 2023 NBA Finals at Ball Arena. MVP leader Nikola Jokić had another spectacular effort.

Jokić scored 18 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks to lead the Nuggets to a 41-19 season record.

Michael Porter Jr. stepped up and played one of his greatest games of the season after Jamal Murray was ruled out due to an ankle injury. He finished with 30 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks.

After the win, NBA fans were quick to crown the Nuggets as NBA title favorites once again, despite the fact that the Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves were above them in the rankings.

Jokić continues to impress as the Nuggets strive to defend their crown. He entered Thursday’s game averaging 25.9 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 9.3 assists in 57 games, shooting 58.3 percent from the field and 35.1% from three.

The Nuggets will likely face a more difficult test in the Western Conference playoffs this season than in 2023. The standings are tight, and the Thunder, Timberwolves, and Los Angeles Clippers appear to be serious Finals contenders.